Announcements

Spirit Week Celebrate Tradition and Innovation

17 October 2025

To celebrate the launch of Clarkson College’s first-ever mascot, this year’s Spirit Week theme was “Taking Flight.” Held September 23–27, 2025, the week featured events like a campus-wide Open House, an indoor carnival, and activities for alumni. It was a fun way to celebrate both the College’s history and today’s students.

Monday, September 23rd was the first day of Spirit Week. Following a year of debate, discernment, and discussion, Clarkson College revealed its new mascot—The Falcon. The Falcon is now proudly displayed in the Main Building lobby. Students, faculty, staff, and alumni all had a voice in the mascot selection process. At the reveal, President Dr. Andreia Nebel, Clarkson College President/CEO, thanked the Strategic Planning committee. Natalie Vrbka, Dr. Jessica Wissink, and graphic artist Sarah Vanderloo, received thanks bring the Falcon to life.

On Monday afternoon, the College hosted an Open House where guests met faculty and staff and toured campus. Visitors also learned about current renovations and building enhancements underway.

On Tuesday, volunteers spent time at the Nebraska Humane Society for the Day of Caring. They played with animals, helped with enrichment activities, and even took dogs on "Barks & Rec" walks. One of the biggest highlights was the adoption of a cat by our own Erin Solheim, Digital & Website Strategist. This marks the second year in a row someone left Spirit Week with a new pet.

Wednesday’s indoor carnival brought games, snacks, and friendly competition to Howard Hall. To support the campus food pantry, teams joined a “Stack to Stock” challenge. Groups participating built displays out of canned goods, including one shaped like the new Falcon mascot.

The tradition of crowning Mr. and Ms. Clarkson continued with a campus-wide vote. Jimmy Nguyen from the Physical Therapist Assistant program was named as Mr. Clarkson. And Serena Wilson from the BSN program as Ms. Clarkson.

Spirit Week continued Thursday with our day of Commitment. This day, the Clarkson College community paused to reflect on the efforts and lives of alumni, students, faculty, and staff. Our annual "Garden Walk" typically takes place in the Clarkson Service League Heritage Garden. This space has been off limits due to construction. Thus, the annual Garden Walk was held at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. Guests heard from speakers including Dr. Nebel, Dr. William Montgomery, Ms. Jina Paul, Mr. Bill Koile, and The Very Rev. Vanessa Clark. Visitors also had the chance to see the resting place of Bishop and Meliora Clarkson, the College’s founders.

Spirit Week wrapped up Friday evening with the Alumni Dinner. The dinner provided an opportunity for alumni to gather and celebrate. The dinner also featured the announcement of this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipients. Matt Pospisil, chair of the Clarkson College Board of Directors, was recognized for his leadership at Nebraska Medicine and his commitment to health care and community service. Dr. Carla Dirkschneider, Vice President of Enrollment and Retention, was honored for her impact on Clarkson College through student-focused leadership and strategic planning.

Spirit Week will return next year, September 21–25, 2026.