Reagan's Committment to Eureka College

2011 Centennial and Beyond

Graduation from Eureka did not diminish Reagan's affection for the school. Throughout his succession of careers, from actor to politician to President, Mr. Reagan was a frequent visitor to campus. He used his visits to Eureka to remind the audience that if he had it to do over again, he'd return to Eureka. In fact, he chose Eureka as the location to deliver one of his most important speeches on Arms Control as President. Remembered in foreign policy circles as "The Eureka Speech," Reagan chose the 50th anniversary of his graduation from Eureka to introduce START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) - a program that continues to play an important role in nuclear disarmament.

His loyalty to Eureka College was evidenced by his three six-year terms on the College's Board of Trustees and his continual involvement in various college related events. The Reagan came back to campus twelve times. His last visit was 1992. Incredible.

From sports broadcaster, to actor, to politician, Dutch Reagan's four years of personal development at Eureka launched him into a lifetime of leadership. What was it that he took with him beyond that "small school on the hill?" His classmates say it was charisma and an enthusiasm for any project he was involved in. Others point to the mentoring relationships from members of the Eureka community, like coach McKinzie and drama teacher Ellen Johnson. It was likely a combination of the two.

Beyond Reagan's endless financial support, this EC alum brought attention to a little school with a big history that carries today and lives the archetypal story of a little kid telling his parents that he is going to be President of the United States some day. Reagan was the poor kid who grew up during the Depression and made it to College at a time when less than 7% of the population attended all the while staying true to the Eureka College core value of servant leadership. Reagan has become Eureka College's grandfather and the College his living legacy.

After his Presidency, Reagan was at George Washington University where he was being given an honorary degree, GW surprised him by having a college student vocal group sing the Eureka College Alma Mater. Reagan promptly stood and sang with reverence and gusto the song the Eureka College family knows so well. View the moment on YouTube >