Newt Gingrich at Eureka College Commencement

Former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Newt Gingrich was the keynote speaker at Eureka College’s commencement ceremony May 14 in Rinker Amphitheater.

“Newt Gingrich’s commencement address to the Class of 2011 is the finale to our successful year-long Ronald Reagan Centennial celebration,” said Eureka College President J. David Arnold. “We are delighted to host a national leader who recognizes and identifies with the leadership legacy of Eureka’s most famous graduate.”

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Eureka College 2011 Graduates

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Our History - 150 Commencements Strong

Eureka College was founded by abolitionists from Kentucky who were members of a religious movement known as the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and were committed to providing young people a liberal education. These pioneers believed in an education infused with values as a basis for leadership. Chartered by the Illinois Legislature in 1855, Eureka was the first college in the state and third in the nation to admit men and women on an equal basis.

To the present day, the college has continued to be interested in the development o character as well as intellect and technical competence with emphasis on service and leadership. Eureka College has had a major impact on American life; with alumni who have had successful careers in education, business, management, the arts, and community service. Graduates include forty-two college presidents, seven governors, and members of Congress, a Nobel Laureate team member, and former President Ronald Reagan, Class of 1932.