I administer and direct the
Ronald W. Reagan Leadership Program at Eureka College.
The Reagan Leadership Program is one of Eureka’s two premier scholarship programs. It offers selected students a four-year, full-tuition scholarship, mentorship and internships on- and off-campus, leadership training, and study abroad opportunities.
The program is comprised of 15 student fellows from across the country. Students are pursuing degrees in a variety of disciplines, including Art, Biology, Business Administration, Communication and Media Studies, Computer Science, Education, English, History and Political Science, Kinesiology, Music, Psychology, and Sports Management.
Administrative Responsibilities
Execute a national recruitment strategy for the program
I coordinate and oversee the selection of incoming student fellows each fall semester. This occurs through a nationwide recruitment campaign aimed at rising high school seniors. In addition to direct correspondence with these students, I work and communicate with high school guidance counselors, teachers and athletic coaches, and families during the recruitment process.
Plan and host two scholarship competitions
Each November I co-coordinate, alongside the Director of the Disciples of Christ Leadership Program (DLP), two scholarship competitions through which new student fellows are selected. One competition is held on Eureka’s campus and the other is held virtually via Zoom.
Advise a cohort of 15 student fellows
As RLP Director I have an advisory role for each student fellow. I principally assist program fellows with the selection of mentorship experiences, internships, and study abroad opportunities. I also, alongside Joe Cunningham, provide advice and professional development through a mandatory colloquium course. All DLP and RLP students receive leadership training in this course, develop critical analysis skills through case study work, and undergo professional development and networking through conversation with invited speakers.
Manage the program’s budget
I oversee a high five-figure annual budget. This includes funds for student travel and internship support, recruitment expenses, costs associated with the annual scholarship competitions, and other expenses associated with program administration. I collaborate on this budget management with the Director of the DLP as well as Eureka College’s CFO and Business Office.
Co-plan a biennial study abroad trip
Work alongside the International Studies coordinator, Kate Harlin, on the planning and management of a week-long study abroad trip for first- and second-year program fellows. This includes the development of a trip itinerary, the purchasing of airfare and excursion tickets, and the coordination of students’ experiences while abroad. We recently returned from a trip to Stockholm, Sweden, which occurred in May 2025. The image to the right is of the RLP group on the narrowest street in Stockholm!
Manage and curate program website and social media accounts
I am responsible for managing and curating the RLP website, which I developed and launched in Spring 2025, as well as the program’s Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube accounts. This includes regular posting of recruitment and competition information, updates on current student accomplishments, and updates on program alumni. I also review website and social media analytics as well as manage social media and Internet advertising for the program.
