Clarke University in Dubuque, Iowa, has announced a $6 million gift from the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVM) in support of the school’s three-year strategic plan to upgrade services and facilities.

The second-largest one-time gift in university history will serve as a lead grant in Clarke’s forthcoming comprehensive campaign to fund campus-wide upgrades to student residential spaces and academic areas. In addition, the funds will support the consolidation of academic advising and career services and resources as part of the Center for Academic Excellence, which opened in January. Founded in 1843, Clarke is the only BVM-founded higher education institution in the country still in existence and the longest ongoing mission of the order, which was established in 1833.

“These funds and the improvements they support will ensure that our shared mission will continue well into the future,” said Clarke University interim president Fletch Lamkin.

“Our support of Clarke remains crucial to this vital mission of our congregation,” said BVM president LaDonna Manternach. “We are committed to the university’s vision to keep the core values of freedom, education, charity, and justice relevant to every Clarke student who then takes those values into the world with them.”

(Photo credit: Clarke University)