HERITAGE CLUB MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: JIM AND NANCYE CLAYTON

On a Thursday morning in May 2024, Jim and Nancye Clayton were part of the crowd gathered at the Aquinas Center for the commencement ceremonies. Among the graduates that day was their daughter, Susan. This day of celebration marked another significant chapter in the relationship between the Claytons and Aquinas College that goes back more than three decades.

The Claytons’ first gift to Aquinas came in 1988, and they have since become steadfast benefactors. Their daughter Carole graduated from the College in 2001 and holds the special distinction of being the first student to have received her entire education (kindergarten through college) on the Dominican Campus. That same year Jim, a former IBM executive and the founder of InfoWorks, established the Jim and Marion Clayton Scholarship for the Education of the Dominican Sisters in memory of his mother, Marion Beckham Clayton, who was taught by the Dominican Sisters at Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga. With the help of an estate gift from his father, James Clayton, Jr., whose name was later added to the name of the fund, this endowed scholarship has grown into a lasting legacy, providing annual support for the education of the young student-sisters at Aquinas College.

The couple’s generosity to the College, however, extends far beyond scholarships. They have funded key facility improvements, ensuring the campus remains a safe and efficient environment for students and faculty. Jim has also given of his time and expertise as a member of the Aquinas College Board of Directors from 2002 to 2014. Thanks to Jim’s longstanding relationship with IBM, Aquinas College received years of donated computer equipment through matching IBM grants, helping to advance the college’s technological infrastructure. Nancye too has contributed many years of service to all three schools on the Dominican Campus. Her efforts – often in a leadership capacity – have been instrumental in driving various initiatives that have greatly benefited the campus community. Among her most impactful contributions to Aquinas was her assistance in planning and promoting the Aquinas College Benefit Dinner – an event that was for many years the major fundraiser for the College and which she frequently served as co-chair for the organizing committee. In 2002, Aquinas College inducted Jim and Nancye into the prestigious St. Thomas Aquinas Society, recognizing their lifelong commitment to education and service.

As members of the Heritage Club, the Claytons’ legacy of giving continues to inspire, leaving an enduring impact on Aquinas College for generations to come. Reflecting on their steadfast support for Aquinas over these years, Nancye explained, “We support Aquinas because it has meant so much to our family and [the College] has done wonders for our daughters who attended there. It’s an important part of our lives.” Jim and Nancye’s friendship, generosity and unwavering support have left an indelible mark on Aquinas College.