Elliott chosen for Distinguished Alumni Award

He couldn’t have imagined the strength of the foundation that was being laid in his life as a student at George Nettels Elementary, or at Lakeside Junior High, or at Pittsburg High School.

But in reflecting on his time as a Dragon, Jeff Elliott believes that what he learned from teammates, coaches, teachers, classmates, and participation in several academic and athletic experiences contributed to him being the person he is today.

That’s why he has tried to find ways to give back to the school district for most of his adult life.

Elliott (Class of 1980) was chosen by the USD 250 Foundation as this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipient, an award that was formally given during Pittsburg High School Commencement on Saturday.

Since 1998, this annual award has been given by the USD 250 Foundation to Pittsburg High School graduates who have distinguished themselves through their work, personal accomplishments, or in the lives of others. 

“I felt like I got a good education in this district, along with being able to build the kinds of relationships that give you the confidence to go on and make something of yourself,” Elliott said.

After graduating from the University of Kansas with a degree in business administration and an MBA from Pittsburg State University, Elliott has spent the past 30 years in the commercial banking industry in Pittsburg, serving businesses and individuals in Southeast Kansas and beyond. 

The last 23 years have been with Commerce Bank, where his current role as a senior vice president provides leadership to six markets in Kansas and Missouri.

He’s also found time to volunteer as a leader and member of numerous organizations, including the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas, the Pittsburg Rotary Club, the United Way, JL Hutchinson, and the Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce. 

He was a founding member of the USD 250 Foundation, serving as president twice, and co-chaired committees for successful school bond issues in 1998 and 2001.

In 2023, he was the recipient of the Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce Spirit of Pittsburg Award. 

As is typical for most recipients, Elliott said he was honored and humbled to receive an award from his school district.

“It’s special,” he said. “There are a lot of very qualified people who have graduated from our school district, people who have gone on to achieve a great deal, and I can think of a lot who are probably more deserving than I am.”

Foundation board member John Clark (Class of 1986) said Elliott was a great choice for the award, crediting him with “donating his time and skills to what he believes in. He has a high sense of integrity and values with a focus on improving our community and the overall educational opportunities for our students.” 

Elliott and his wife, Ann, who directs the Family Resource Center where many of the children who become Dragons get their educational start, have four children: Josh, Trevor, Jordan and Bethanne. They, too, are proud USD 250 alumni, and the Elliotts have grandchildren who are Dragons, as well.

His advice to this year’s graduating seniors?

“You’ve been given a good foundation through your education in this district to be successful in whatever endeavor you choose,” he said. “You’ve been surrounded by great teachers, friends, coaches, and resources. Remember that as you start down the path to your next goal, and draw on it when you need to.”

And to those just entering high school:

“The friendships I made, the stories I was part of, the memories I have — that came from being broad and not limiting in what I chose to participate in,” he said. “Have as many experiences as you can. It will serve you well in the future.”