Former naval commander named director of  Ronald W. Reagan Leadership Program at Eureka College

Michael Thurwanger to lead Program

Michael Thurwanger of Peoria, a former commander and public relations specialist with the U.S. Navy, has been named director of the Ronald W. Reagan Leadership Program at Eureka College effective July 1.  He also will teach communication courses at the college.

Thurwanger retired in 1996 after 20 years with the Navy, including more than 15 years as a public affairs officer. His responsibilities included directing public relations support for high-profile international events for the Third Fleet and developing communication strategies for the Secretary of Defense. Other responsibilities included media relations, production of Navy publications and developing curriculum for and instructing at Department of Defense Information schools.

For the past nine years, Thurwanger has taught communication at Bradley University, Peoria.

Thurwanger received a bachelor’s degree in Far Eastern studies from the U.S. Naval Academy, a master’s degree in public relations from Ball State University and a doctorate in journalism from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

  “Dr. Thurwanger’s extensive background in public relations during his naval career, including assisting with communication and press relations for the Pentagon and senior U.S. officials, provides the leadership experience that will serve both the communication program and the Reagan Leadership Program well,” said Eureka College Provost Irene Burgess.

Thurwanger succeeds Brian Sajko, who held the position for two years. Before that, Paul Lister led the program for 10 years.

The Reagan Leadership Program is in its 25th year. The program is named for Ronald Reagan, 40th president of the United States and a 1932 graduate of Eureka College. The program awards full-tuition, four-year scholarships to six incoming freshmen each year. Based on leadership, service and academic excellence, the award includes two mentorships within the United States and abroad. For more information about the program, call the admissions office at 1-(888)-4-Eureka.

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Contact:

Michele Lehman

Media Relations Coordinator

mlehman@eureka.edu

(309) 467-6318