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August 31, 2007 The Power of a Bequest: MSU Receives A Generous Gift for Scholarships Murray State University has received one of its largest single gifts to date benefiting Illinois students. MSU alumnus the late Jeffrey Clarke of Pecatonica, Ill., established the Jeffrey J. and Sallie Clarke Endowed Scholarship in memory of his late wife, Sallie, and out of his love for MSU. This $1 million gift will provide multiple yearly scholarships for full-time Illinois students attending MSU, whether coming to MSU directly out of high school or transferring from a community college or other higher education institution. Jeff, originally from Sherrard, Ill., received his bachelor of science degree in history from MSU in 1967. As a student, he was active in the International Relations Club, the oldest organization on campus at that time. After graduation, he taught in the Belvidere and Rockford, Ill., schools. Jeff and Sallie spent most of their professional careers as educators, and both were artists at heart. Upon retirement, they moved to Pecatonica where Jeff enjoyed a successful photography business and Sallie became a well-known artist, receiving much acclaim for her watercolors, oils, prints and photographs. Their other interests included gardening, reading and traveling abroad to places such as Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Sharing a deep appreciation for education, nature and the arts, there was never a couple more committed to each other or their community. Jeff and Sallie were active with the Winnebago County Fair art judging program and with area art councils in Rockford and Freeport, Ill. In January 2004, Sallie passed away of breast cancer, leaving Jeff devastated. He passed away almost one year after his wife, also from cancer. While Jeff and Sallie had no children, they believed every person should have the opportunity to receive a full and wellrounded education. As an enduring testament to this belief, Jeff established this scholarship. Jeff and Sallie's close friend, attorney William E. Schirger, says, "Jeff and Sallie were both visionary thinkers and always aware of current problems of the day. Jeff loved Murray State and always spoke of giving back to the institution that established in him a constant source of energy." For more information on the Jeffrey J. and Sallie Clarke Endowed Scholarship and other endowments, contact the MSU scholarship office at (270) 809-3225 or at scholarship.office@murraystate.edu. .
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