Rochester Christian University has named its School of Education the Lyle and Jean Clarke School of Education in recognition of a generous gift from the Clarke family that will support the growth of education programs, resources and the overall student experience.
The naming honors Lyle and Jean Clarke's lifelong commitment to education, faith and service. The couple's children, all RCU alumni, surprised their parents with the gift and naming in June 2026 in honor of their 75th wedding anniversary.
"Our parents believe deeply in the power of education, faith and service, and those values shaped our family," said Rob Clarke, 1982 alumnus and member of the RCU Board of Trustees. "Naming the School of Education in their honor is a meaningful way for us to recognize their legacy and their lifelong commitment to helping others. We are grateful for the opportunity to give back to a university that has meant so much to our family and to support the educators who will shape future generations."
RCU's School of Education offers degrees in elementary and secondary education and early childhood studies. This gift will provide resources to advance and expand the school and strengthen RCU's efforts to prepare educators who are equipped to serve students, schools and communities.
"We are deeply grateful to the Clarke family for this generous gift and for their belief in the mission of Rochester Christian University," said Dr. Dave Hutson, dean of the Schools of Business and Education. "Their investment will allow our education programs to grow,strengthen the student experience, and expand opportunities for our future educators. Most importantly, this gift will help us prepare students to serve schools and communities with excellence and a commitment to Christian values."
A family legacy of education and service
Lyle and Jean Clarke raised their family in Cass City, Michigan, where they instilled in their children the values of hard work, generosity, service to church and community, and the transformative power of Christian education.
Education was central to both Lyle and Jean's professional lives. Lyle spent his career teaching at Cass City High School, where he impacted generations of students through his dedication and steady leadership. In 1971, he took a sabbatical to Australia, where he also taught. Jean also served as an educator, sharing the same passion for teaching and student development.
Following their retirements from education in Michigan, Lyle and Jean continued their spirit of service by briefly teaching through the Peace Corps in Botswana, Africa. After returning, they both continued serving in their community. Lyle served on the Cass City Rolston Rawson Memorial Library Board for 30 years, and Jean volunteered at the local hospital for 25 years.
All five Clarke children attended Rochester Christian University when it was a two-year institution named Michigan Christian College: Margie Crutchfield '72, Carol Clarke '73, Sharon Ground '75, Kathy Dillard '78 and Robert Clarke '82.
Training future educators
RCU's education program is certified by the Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation and the Michigan Department of Education. RCU offers teacher certification in various grade bands in elementary and secondary education.
The online, accelerated bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Studies is designed to help students complete their degree while continuing to work in the early childhood field.
The Clarke family's gift will help RCU strengthen and grow its education program while also offering expanded opportunities and resources to students.
For more information, visit www.rcu.edu.
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