Matt Evans, ’91, was honored with the Hall of Distinguished Alumni Award from Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) in 2025. The Best of Eastern Alumni Awards, presented annually during Homecoming weekend, celebrate excellence among EKU alumni. As EKU’s most prestigious alumni award, the Hall of Distinguished Alumni recognizes those who have achieved considerable success in their chosen fields, in their service to society and in their lifetime loyalty to EKU.

From his early days in Danville, Kentucky—where he once turned a profit selling bubble gum to classmates—to his current role as president and CEO of Bankers Service Corporation (BSC), Evans has always had an entrepreneurial spirit. After earning his finance degree magna cum laude from EKU in 1991, he began his career as a commissioned bank examiner with the FDIC during the turbulent “S&L Bailout” era. By 1997, he co-founded BSC, now a respected auditing and consulting firm serving banks across the region.

Evans’ impact extends far beyond his professional success. At EKU, he has built opportunities for future generations of finance students through the creation of the Evans Banking and Financial Services Program—widely regarded as the gold standard for preparing new bankers and regulators. He also serves on the Business Advisory Council, has chaired the EKU Foundation’s Audit Committee and continues to be a steadfast advocate for his alma mater.

For Evans, success is defined not by profit but by empowerment. Whether mentoring students, advising clients or serving in his community, he measures achievement by how he lifts others. That passion has led him recently into international dog rescue efforts. As treasurer of SOS Galgos, a nonprofit based in Barcelona, he helps transport and rehome abused Spanish greyhounds. On his latest trip, he personally facilitated the rescue of 10 dogs—all of whom have since been adopted.

“Be passionate,” advises Evans. “You must truly find that passion in your life, and the rest will follow. Passion is the foundation for building a legacy.”

Passionate, entrepreneurial and deeply loyal to EKU, Evans exemplifies a life and legacy of impact.

EKU’s Office of Development and Alumni Engagement is accepting nominations for the 2026 Best of Eastern Awards. Learn more and nominate a well-deserving EKU alum at go.eku.edu/alumniawards.