Strubberg Named 2025 ECC Outstanding Alumni Award Recipient

A dedicated community leader, trusted professional, and proud East Central College graduate, Jim Strubberg has been named the recipient of the College’s 2025 Outstanding Alumni Award.

The award, presented by the East Central College Foundation, was given to Strubberg on May 17 during East Central College’s 55th Annual Commencement Ceremony.

Strubberg, New Haven, is the senior accountant at Leroy Strubberg & Associates, where he has built a respected career grounded in professionalism, reliability, and a deep understanding of the needs of local families and businesses.

“For decades, Strubberg has paired his accounting expertise with an unwavering commitment to service, making a lasting impact across Franklin County,” said Dr. Robyn Walter, ECC Vice President of Academic Affairs.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Strubberg has spent decades improving life in his community. He is instrumental in the success of the Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association, raising scholarship funds for local students alongside his wife, Sharon. Together, they travel the region with their grill, supporting events that strengthen rural communities.

In New Haven, Strubberg is a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus, serves on the Church Council at Assumption Catholic Church, and is active as a Eucharistic Minister and Financial Secretary for Council 7475. Each fall, he volunteers as a cashier at the Immaculate Conception Fall Festival. His support for first responders spans both New Haven and Union, where he has long aided local fire departments.

His contributions extend across numerous civic organizations. Strubberg has held leadership roles with the Union Area Chamber of Commerce, Union Development Corporation Board, Union Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, and the Citizens Bank Board of Directors. He currently serves on the Union R-11 Foundation Board, is a life member of Union FFA, and serves as treasurer for both the Union Kiwanis Club and the Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association. He is also treasurer of the Franklin County FFA Foundation Board.

He has served on the United Way Board of Directors, is widely recognized for his hands-on work with 4-H, and is a member of the New Haven and Union Chambers of Commerce, the Missouri Society of Accountants, and the National Society of Accountants.

“Jim’s the kind of person who doesn’t just join organizations—he works hard for them,” said Dot Schowe, who nominated Strubberg for the award. “Whether he’s pulling the band trailer in parades across Missouri or pitching in at community events, he always shows up.”

Strubberg’s connection to East Central College runs deep. In addition to his own accomplishments, his wife, Sharon, and three of their four children are ECC graduates.

His lifelong dedication to community, family, and service truly embodies the spirit of the Outstanding Alumni Award. He has brought honor to East Central College not only through his achievements, but through the values he lives every day.