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His term began on Dec. 1, 2019, and he will be formally inducted on Feb. 22, 2020, at the winter meeting of the Board of Trustees.

“My colleagues on the Board and I welcome Ryan to our work to keep Illinois College sustainable as we look to our bicentennial in 2029 and beyond,” said vice-chair Susan L. Pratt ’80. “Ryan joins us in making decisions to provide an outstanding education for all IC students and in continuing a historic legacy we are proud to call our own.” 

Barke serves as general counsel and chief compliance officer for Visionary Wealth Advisors, where he provides legal advice and guidance for the independent investment firm. He previously served as vice president and managing counsel for Scottrade Financial Services, Inc.

Barke received a Bachelor of Science degree from Illinois College, a master’s degree from Western Illinois University, and earned his law degree from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. He served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors from 2015 to 2019. Barke and his wife Laura are charter members of the Illinois College Society.  

As a student, Barke received the Julian M. Sturtevant Campus Leadership Award, in part, for his service as a student residence hall director for Gardner Hall and as an assistant women’s basketball and softball coach. 

In his trustee role, Barke pledges responsibility to uphold and advance the College’s mission and vision. The Illinois College Board of Trustees provides oversight on all strategic, academic and financial policies for the College. 

“It is an honor to serve the Illinois College community as a member of its Board of Trustees,” Barke said. “I look forward to partnering with President Farley, fellow trustees, and the community at large to help ensure Illinois College is at the forefront of academic excellence and student success.”

For a complete listing of the Illinois College Board of Trustees, visit www.ic.edu/trustees.