Ms. Clarke works in the Advancement Office, supporting the two Directors of Advancement. In recent years, Ms. Clarke has been on the board of trustees for the Burnham Memorial Library, been a volunteer photographer for the Vermont State Parks, taught the 4 Winds Nature Program in elementary schools and coached the girls’ basketball team at Mater Christi School.

Background:

• Liberal Arts at Castleton State, UVM, & CCV

Get to Know Her:

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I enjoy working in Advancement because: after years as an education major, I realized that teaching wasn’t for me! I love having a connection to the school and my administrative job is the best of both worlds.

I choose to teach at Rice because: I’m passionate about the role Catholic schools play in our community. What our office does is critical to giving as many students as possible the opportunity to attend Rice. 

What is your favorite thing about your job? The people that I work with make it easy to come in every day. Getting to know the students is the cherry on top.

If you had an unexpected afternoon off, what would you do with your time? I’m a birder. I’d grab a pair of binoculars and head out to a birding hotspot. Getting out to paddleboard on Lake Champlain is a close second! Both activities are likely to include my 8 lb. dog.

Best vacation/trip you’ve ever been on: I think Grand Cayman takes the cake. Snorkeling with sea turtles at Spot’s Beach can’t be beat.

Favorite Rice Tradition or Event: Grandparents’ Mass was wonderful. It was such a special morning for Rice families!

Favorite Rice tradition or event: Stunt Nite

Favorite Rice Sports Team to watch: Varsity Basketball 

Favorite Professional Sports Team or Athlete: Boston Red Sox

If a prospective family asked you “why should I send my student to Rice,” what would you say? Public schools are being asked to do a lot. My experience was that they were no longer able to focus on academics. At our Catholic schools the academics are still a priority and the caring mission of the school supports the students holistically as people. There are high standards to help kids achieve their best at Rice. I also find that having faith present in school greatly increases the meaning it has in a student’s life.