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Division of Student Affairs

In Memory of Dr. Adam Peck

Adam Eugene Peck

Born: March 22, 1973 - Died: September 30, 2022

Adam Eugene passed away in Carle BroMenn ICU at the age of 49 following a sudden accident.

He was preceded in death by his father, William “Bill” Peck, grandparents, Aldena and Robert Peck and Martha and Melvin Bush, and everyone’s favorite cat, Smitty.

He is survived by his mother, Marsha Bush Peck, wife, Michele (nee Jackson), children Jackson Noble and Jocelyn Jennifer, brother William Aaron Peck, and many adoring nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Over the years, he “adopted” many students and treated them like his own children.

Originally from St. Elmo, IL, Dr. Peck earned his Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Lewis University, a Master of Arts in Communication Studies from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration from The University of Texas at Austin.

Adam was an educator for more than 25 years. His body of work is enormous. To name a few contributions, he wrote and edited several books, authored more than 50 scholarly publications, edited several journals, and presented more than 100 national and international webinars. He inspired thousands of students. He served on many national and state boards, was a frequent keynote speaker at conferences, and presented on at least 48 campuses around the U.S. and internationally.

Adam and his wife, Michele were married for nearly 23 years. The family spent 14 years in Nacogdoches, Texas, where he was a faithful and active member of Westminster Presbyterian Church. Adam served as Assistant Vice President and Dean of Student affairs at Stephen F. Austin State University. Adam left a legacy at SFA. He advised many student organizations, lived “The SFA Way,” revived the axe handle tradition, was a key member of the campus-wide COVID-19 response team, and joyfully created and took on the role of Purple Santa.

The family recently moved to Bloomington, Illinois where Adam began his new position as Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs at Illinois State University. Always an ally and an advocate, he worked on many Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives including The Rainbow Floor. He raised safety and awareness through the Night Walk program.

Adam loved making music, especially serving as band leader at the infamous Jackson Christmas Eve. His comedic timing, dad jokes, juggling, and gregarious sense of humor were the highlight of every gathering. Adam’s special charisma captivated everyone from colleagues to friends and family; he had a rare gift for making everyone feel important and he managed to touch the lives of countless people.

Adam was an incredibly generous person and will continue to provide help for others as an organ donor through Gift of Hope.

A memorial service will be held in Fairview Heights, Illinois at 10 a.m on October 15th, 2022.

First Baptist Church of Fairview Heights

10401 Lincoln Trail

Fairview Heights, IL 62208

(618) 397-4720

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in his name to one of the following organizations: