Susan “Su” Eckert Dessa

Alumni Service

Class of 1975

Su’s education at Illinois State University’s Lab schools, Metcalf and

U-High, left her feeling a strong connection to each of them.  The Pioneer Spirit ran deep in the blood of the Eckert household.  Father Albert began a dedicated 30 year career teaching math at U-High in 1955.  His school pride and enthusiasm were passed on to each of his six children.  During the 60’s and 70’s, there was always an Eckert attending U-High.  Mother Nancy served as PTA President and participated as one of the ground breakers for the current U-High building back in the early 1960’s.

Su has memories of the “old U-High” (now Moulton Hall) and the construction, completion, and daily life in the “new U-High” and Stroud Auditorium.  Su says, “Stroud was state of the art and such a grand showplace for many years…  Forty years later, Stroud now patiently waits for generous contributors to help restore it back to its former magnificence and grandeur.”

Following several out-of-state moves, Su, Jeff, her husband of 29 years, and their daughters returned to Bloomington-Normal in 1995.  She quickly became actively involved with UHS serving many years on the Alumni Awards Committee and as President of the UHS Alumni Board.  She explained, “I wanted to give something back to the school that had given me so much.  My love for U-High continues and I have been proud to serve and hope to do so in the future.”  Su has also helped out at Homecoming and in the library.

“My life’s greatest joy is watching my two bright daughters become such wonderful young women.  They are fellow proud Pioneers Grace, Class of 1997, and Kate, Class of 2007.”

Due to Su’s “give back” spirit and actions, she is being presented with the Alumni Service Award.  She serves as a model for others to follow.