INA, Ill. (June 18, 2025) — Jeff Jones, longtime owner and operator of Burton's Café in Whittington, officially stepped down from the Rend Lake College Board of Trustees during the June 10 meeting. Jones, who dedicated seven years of service to the Board, was recognized for his contributions as members welcomed John D. Aiken, who will serve out the remainder of Jones’ term.
Board of Trustees Chair Larry Manning (left) and RLC President Terry Wilkerson (right) present Jeff Jones (center) with a service plaque.
Jones was first elected to a four-year term in 2018 and was then re-elected to a six-year term in 2022.
"It has been a privilege and a pleasure to serve alongside such a dedicated group of individuals for the last seven-plus years," he wrote in his resignation letter. "My commitment to my growing family and my business have required more of my time and I feel I cannot give the board the level of attention and engagement that it deserves. I remain incredibly proud of the work the college is doing. The institution is moving in a strong direction, and I have every confidence in its continued success."
Aiken, retired owner and operator of SCD Rea and Sons Insurance Agency, is a life-long resident of Benton and graduated from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. He has been an active participant in the Southern Illinois community through his various positions on local committees and boards. Over the years, the Aiken family has built deep ties with RLC, engaging through educational opportunities, athletics, and the RLC Foundation, where his wife, Mary Ellen, proudly serves as Vice Chair.
RLC Trustee John Aiken
"Our family has been blessed to be able to contribute to several building projects on campus, including the theater and rehearsal area, as well as The Game Plan renovation of the gymnasium," shared Aiken. "We have also established an annual family scholarship for a deserving graduate of Benton High School."
When asked about why he chose to become an RLC Trustee, Aiken expressed his excitement to advance the community and surrounding areas.
"I see Rend Lake College as a wonderful educational asset in our area to be used by students taking general education courses, specialty degrees, and developing vocational skills," said Aiken. "I look forward to bringing my own talents and resources to help the college continue to succeed. It will be a pleasure to work as a team with the other members of the board, administration, faculty, and staff as we move Rend Lake College forward."
