Eric Tillirson graduated from Presbyterian College in 1987, where he received a bachelor of science degree in chemistry. Throughout his college career, Tillirson was involved in many organizations, a few of which include: Student Union Board, American Chemical Society, Kappa Alpha Fraternity, and serving as chairman of Judicial Council and as president of the Interfraternity Council.

Currently in the position of senior vice president and director of sales development for Thiele Kaolin Company in Sandersville, Georgia, Tillirson has been named as the successor to retiring current president. Paul Kirschling will retire as president effective February 1, 2015, and Tillirson will take the helm at Thiele Kaolin. The company is known as one of the world’s leading sources for processed kaolin clay and maintains the largest proven kaolin reserves in North America. “I am honored to have the opportunity to lead the skilled and dedicated women and men of Thiele Kaolin Company,” Tillirson said. “The opportunity to participate in a variety of campus organizations allowed me to begin developing important leadership skills that have assisted me in my career,” said Tillirson.

Tillirson is a member of a full-fledged PC family. “Presbyterian College is a very special place to me. I met my wife, Jennifer Jester, there and we have enjoyed a wonderful marriage for 26 years. We value our PC educations, and we encouraged both of our sons to attend Presbyterian. Our oldest son, Sims, graduated in 2014, and our youngest son, Joel, is currently a freshman. We are a PC family.”