Rochester Christian University will honor the Clarke family for its generous gift to name the Lyle and Jean Clarke School of Education in ceremonies on Tuesday, Sept. 15.
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.
In chapel on Tuesday, Sept. 15, the campus community will celebrate Lyle and Jean Clarke. A long-time educator and coach, Tim Morton, multi-area director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes of Southeast Michigan, will be the featured speaker. The world’s largest sports ministry, FCA’s mission is to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and his church. Morton has been full-time with the ministry since 2018. He and his staff of 10 currently serve over 50 collegiate, high school and middle school campuses.
After chapel, a reception and ribbon-cutting will be held to honor Lyle and Jean Clarke. “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.”
Remarks at the ribbon-cutting will be made by Bryan Barnett, mayor of the City of Rochester Hills; RCU Board Member Rob Clarke; Dr. Reggies Wenyika, president; Dr. Dave Hutson, dean of the Schools of Business and Education; and Liliana Tasich, a senior elementary education major.
Guests are welcome to attend the events. Chapel begins at 11:10 a.m. in the Alumni Center Auditorium, followed by a reception at 11:45 a.m. and a ribbon-cutting at 12:15 p.m.
For more information about the Clarkes and their gift, click here.
