Eureka College Welcomes Five Alumni to Board of Trustees

Eureka, Ill. - Eureka College is proud to announce the appointment of five distinguished alumni to its Board of Trustees, further strengthening the institution’s governance with graduates who exemplify the college’s mission and impact.

Joining the board are:

• Jim Behling, Class of 1987, CFO at Brookside Flavors & Ingredients
• Jerrold Martin, Class of 1986, Chief Information Officer, Prairie State College
• LaDonna Neuhaus, Class of 1998, Managing Director, Portfolio Strategist, Beach Point Capital
• Russell Page, Class of 2009, Chief Information Officer, Hagerty
• Carole Richards, Class of 2003, Veterinarian and Owner, Caring Hands Animal Hospital

These five new trustees join 18 continuing trustees in creating a diverse and experienced group dedicated to advancing the college’s future. 

Boards of trustees carry a vital fiduciary responsibility, ensuring the financial health, strategic direction, and long-term sustainability of the institution. Trustees provide oversight of resources, safeguard the college’s mission, and help guide leadership through informed decision-making and strategic planning.

“The addition of these accomplished alumni reflects the strength of our community and the enduring impact of a Eureka College education,” said Dr. Jamel Wright, President. “They return not only with a deep appreciation for the institution, but with valuable professional expertise that will help guide us forward.”

Each of the newly appointed alumni trustees has built a successful career following their time at the college, contributing talents across fields such as information technology, business management, and organizational leadership. Their collective experience enhances the board’s capacity to address complex challenges, identify new opportunities, and ensure the college continues to meet the evolving needs of students and society.

As alumni, these individuals bring a unique and meaningful perspective to their fiduciary role. Their service represents a powerful form of giving back, leveraging the knowledge, skills, and leadership abilities developed after graduation to support the next generation of students.

“Serving on the Board of Trustees is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Rev. Beau Underwood, Class of 2006 and chair of the Board’s Committee on Trustees. “It is an opportunity to invest in the place that helped shape our paths, ensuring it remains strong for years to come.”

With the addition of these five alumni leaders, Eureka College continues to demonstrate its commitment to engaged, forward-thinking governance rooted in both professional excellence and a deep connection to its educational mission.

About Eureka College
Located on nearly 70 wooded acres in Eureka, Illinois, and chartered in 1855, Eureka College cultivates excellence in learning, service, and leadership while providing students uniquely personalized educational opportunities. Eureka College holds the unique distinction of being the first college in Illinois—and among the first in the nation—to admit men and women on an equal basis. The College, originally founded by abolitionist members of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), is the smallest of colleges and universities to ever award a bachelor’s degree to a future President of the United States.