Church Relationship
Church-College Connection
Eureka College, located in Eureka, Illinois, has a historic and ongoing affiliation with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Founded in 1855 by members of this denomination, the college reflects the Disciples’ emphasis on values like liberal arts education, critical inquiry, inclusivity, and social justice. The Disciples of Christ tradition supports education as a means of developing both personal faith and civic responsibility, which continues to shape Eureka College’s mission and ethos.
Notably, Eureka College is also the alma mater of President Ronald Reagan, and its ties to the Disciples of Christ are part of a broader network of colleges and seminaries associated with the denomination.
Serving Today’s Church
At Eureka College, Disciples Leadership Fellows have the unique opportunity to work, intern, and serve in local Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) congregations. Through hands-on experiences, students actively engage in preaching, teaching, care, and community outreach—embodying the values of service, inclusion, and justice that define both the denomination and the college.
These partnerships not only enrich the life of local churches but also nurture students’ spiritual and vocational growth as they discern paths in ministry and leadership.
Future Leaders for Tomorrow’s World
Graduates of Eureka College have a long tradition of serving as pastors, educators, and leaders within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), reflecting the college’s deep-rooted connection to the denomination’s values of faith, service, and justice. Many alumni have gone on to lead congregations, engage in community ministries, and pursue theological education and advocacy. Many graduates have gone on to prepare for ministry at the University of Chicago, Brite Divinity School (TCU), Yale Divinity School, and Vanderbilt Divinity School.
Beyond the church, Eureka graduates have also made significant contributions in fields such as public service, education, healthcare, and business—living out the college’s mission to develop servant-leaders who think critically, act with integrity, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.