Distinguished Alumni

Photo of Vicki E. Allums.

Trevor Brown (PhD’99) is the dean of the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at The Ohio State University. Brown has been a faculty member at Ohio State since 2001. His research focuses on public-private partnerships, government contracting, and democracy and democratic transitions. From the Ukraine to Ohio, Brown has worked with government and public organizations to improve organizational and managerial performance.

“From one dean to another, Trevor Brown has my admiration,” Graham said. “His research, often conducted with SPEA faculty, has had an enormous impact. The Glenn College is a partner with SPEA and a worthy competitor in preparing the next generation of public affairs leaders.”

Steve Eller (BSPA’84) is chief human resource officer for Beacon Health System in South Bend, Indiana, overseeing the risk management and performance improvement departments. He is also active in the community, serving on several boards. Eller is an emeritus member of the IU Alumni Association Executive Council and an active member of SPEA’s Distinguished Alumni Council. He returns to campus often to give guest lectures and to mentor SPEA students.

“Steve is generous with his time, giving back to IU and to SPEA in so many ways,” Graham said. “His insight benefits our students, and so does his example. Steve’s leadership role in the health care industry shows what can be accomplished with a SPEA degree.”