“When Jim Allsup and Roger Lowery first introduced the idea of expanding the CEO program to the Belleville area, I knew this was going to be a very special opportunity for our high school seniors. It is a difficult task to choose a career path when you have never been exposed to all the possibilities. This program allows students to meet and share the experiences of our local business and community leaders. This program not only gives students a head start in planning their future, it has the potential for changing it.”

Ed HoeringPartner, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP

“As Owner and Founder of Precision Practice Management, Inc., I couldn’t be more excited to be involved in the Belleville CEO Program. It has been a great pleasure for myself, partners and staff to participate in sponsoring, mentoring, and hosting the students. The reward I have personally experienced has been watching the students learn and grow through this journey they have been selected to partake. I am honored to serve on the Board and look forward to many, many more years of watching this program (and students) grow."

Renae EichholzOwner & Founder, Precision Practice Management

I am proud to be part of the area business community bringing this transformational program to our high schools.  This is a unique opportunity for several enterprising area students to be out of the traditional school environment, raise their awareness of entrepreneurial opportunities, and allow them to experience starting a new business.  No doubt this will pay dividends to our community in the future.

Kevin PeskoPresident - Bank of Belleville

"Empire strongly believes in giving back to the community. I can’t think of a better way then to live this value and share the little bit of life that we have learned with young students who are willing to get up early before school each week. We believe in the American Dream. If we can play a small part in these students’ quests for their own American Dream that will be a job well done.

Nick BauerPresident, Empire Comfort Systems

The BND has been a proud part of this community for over 157 years, and the mission of the Belleville CEO Program is a great fit. As a lifelong resident of the area, it’s rewarding for me to have the opportunity to invest in and play a small part in helping to shape, develop and encourage these young entrepreneurs.

Jay TebbeBND, President and Publisher