Alumni Spotlight
Jeff Burnett '92
Major: Communication/Broadcasting
Occupation: Realtor
Evangel has had a positive impact on my life from three perspectives -- as a student, employee, and now as a member of the alumni board.
As a student, I jumped into many areas of campus life -- ECTV, KECC, The Lance, College Band & Pep Band, K3S intramural sports and floor activities, and MECS drama ministry. I often chose The (Old) Joust for lunch over the caf. Does anyone else remember those delicious potato bar Thursdays? I am so thankful for the quality relationships God brought into my life from students, staff and faculty. Those four years flew by.
After graduation, I remained in Springfield and entered the field of radio and cable- television. A year later, a golden opportunity came my way -- to return to Evangel as a recruiter in the admissions department. For the next five years, I was blessed to travel the U.S., telling teens about EU, while somewhat extending my "college life" experience -- I got to go to all the games, concerts and campus events, but didn't have to go to class or study -- it was ideal! Serving in the behind-the-scenes world of the administration building, I can say how amazing all the people are who run our university -- working faithfully to keep Evangel's atmosphere Christ-like and the education top-quality.
While on staff, I married a fellow EU graduate, Kim Phillips, and she is the love of my life. Evangel brought us together, and I am forever thankful for that!
When our firstborn, Jenna, was a year old, Kim and I relocated to suburban St Louis to be closer to one set of grandparents and to join a new AIG church, Faith Chapel. We got involved in the children's and drama ministries, and soon our family grew with the additions of Luke and Kaleigh. I blended my communication background and Evangel admissions experience to become self employed in real estate, a career with daily excitement and challenges, but also faith-building as we see God provide. I work with Prudential Alliance Realtors in Lake St Louis, where our family also resides. Kim teaches Espanol at Rockwood Valley Middle School. Our children are now ages 7, 5 and 3, and are so precious to us!
A member of the alumni board since 2002, I have enjoyed helping contribute ideas to benefit future students, make homecoming plans, and having a good reason to visit campus twice a year. I also enjoy getting together with fellow St Louis area alumni at chapter events.
It's a privilege to see God pour out His blessings on Evangel with the incredible new facilities, programs, and record-setting enrollment. I am honored to be a part of the EU family, and cannot imagine my life without the impact Evangel has had on me.