The gift reflects a lifelong belief in the power of global education and a desire to ensure that NKU students have access to the same life-changing experiences that shaped Dr. Clayton’s own academic journey.
As an undergraduate student, Dr. Gary Clayton completed a semester-long study abroad program in Vienna. He considers it the most rewarding academic experience of his life.
That single semester sparked something much larger.
Since then, Gary and Jonna Clayton have traveled to more than 100 countries. Through this endowment, they hope to provide NKU economics majors with similar transformational experiences — opportunities that enhance personal growth, expand cultural understanding and strengthen professional development.
Their vision is clear: empower students to think globally, act confidently and pursue opportunities beyond borders.
“Dr. Gary and Dr. Jonna Clayton’s extraordinary generosity will create life-changing opportunities for our economics students for generations to come,” says Dean Hassan R. HassabElnaby. “Having had the privilege of serving with Gary, I have witnessed firsthand his deep commitment to academic excellence and to expanding opportunities for our students. This remarkable gift reflects his lifelong belief in the transformative power of global education and will have a lasting impact not only on our economics majors but on the entire Haile College of Business.”
NKU President Dr. Cady Short-Thompson echoed that sentiment.
“NKU is deeply grateful to Gary and Jonna for their remarkable generosity and enduring commitment to our students’ success. This investment will expand access to the global learning experiences we are able to provide students, while preparing our graduates to become leaders in an increasingly interconnected world.”
Drs. Gary and Jonna Clayton
Through the Clayton endowment:
By removing financial barriers, this endowment ensures that more students can take advantage of international opportunities that broaden perspectives and strengthen career readiness.
In today’s interconnected economy, global experience is more than an enhancement — it is a competitive advantage. Exposure to international markets, cultures and economic systems equips students with the analytical skills, adaptability and cross-cultural awareness that employers value.
Thanks to the Claytons’ generosity, NKU economics students will gain access to experiences that not only enrich their education but also shape their futures.
To learn more about NKU’s economics degree programs and global learning opportunities, visit the Haile College of Business website.
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