Chuck Brueggemann '88 Heads Bearcat Athletics
Charles “Chuck” Brueggemann ’88 has returned to his alma mater as the new athletic director.
“McKendree has always had a special place in my heart,” said Chuck. “I love this institution
and understand the role competition can play in a young person’s life.”
Chuck comes to McKendree after spending the last two years as the senior vice president
for business development at Jim’s Formal Wear in Trenton, Ill., preceded by 25 years
as an officer with the Illinois State Police (ISP). He was the first deputy director
with the ISP, the second highest-ranking state police officer in Illinois prior to
his retirement in 2010. He managed a workforce of nearly 3,500 officers and civilian
personnel, plus overseeing all aspects of the law enforcement agency.
Chuck has also served as the varsity softball coach at nearby Wesclin High School.
Along with his coaching duties, he was able to raise funds for improvements at the
Warriors’ home facility at Trenton City Park.
During his undergraduate days at McKendree, Chuck served as the student sports information
director, as well as the student athletic trainer and emergency medical technician.
“We are extremely pleased to have Chuck join the McKendree family as our Director
of Intercollegiate Athletics,” said Dr. James Dennis. “His credentials are impressive
and I believe our athletics department, and the University as a whole, will benefit
from his diverse background. Chuck has proven his abilities not only from a leadership
standpoint, but in the areas of planning, marketing and fundraising.”
“Being an alum of McKendree, Chuck has a love for the institution and a genuine desire
to lend his skills to his alma mater,” added Dennis.
Chuck is coming aboard at a key point in McKendree athletics history, as the Bearcats
conclude the second year of a two-year candidacy period in transition from NAIA to
NCAA Division II membership. Accepted by the Great Lakes Valley Conference in the
fall of 2010, the Bearcats will begin play in the 16-member league this fall.
“This is an exciting time for McKendree University, and I am thrilled to be a part
of what is sure to be a successful transition into NCAA Division II and the Great
Lakes Valley Conference. During my tenure the focus will always be on the student-athlete,
the teams and the University.”
Chuck and his wife, Susan, reside in Trenton, Ill. They have two daughters, Beth and
Alicia.
