Redbird pride runs deep in the Lanier family. A legacy that started with three brothers now extends to the second generation of their five children, all of whom were enrolled this past academic year.
Appears InJeff Lanier ’89 was the first to attend Illinois State. The oldest brother, he paid for his own education and chose Illinois State in part to save by living at home in Bloomington while completing an economics degree. He enjoyed campus life as an ATO fraternity member and married a fellow Redbird.
Jeff met Rexie (Westerbeck) ’90, M.S. ’02, at a family wedding after both had graduated. They count their campus connection as another plus to their relationship. An education major, Rexie is a middle school language arts teacher and Jeff works at State Farm Insurance Company. Bloomington residents, they maintain a strong campus connection through Redbird basketball and the fact their twin daughters are enrolled.
Alyse and Alexis just completed their freshman year in Tri Towers. Alyse chose to study graphic design, while Alexis is a business major. They enjoy having the opportunity to attend the same university as their three male cousins.
Braxton, Logan and Gannon are the sons of Jeff’s middle brother, Doug ’90. Also an ATO member, Doug studied criminal justice. He is now employed by UPS and lives in Plainfield with his wife, Lauren (Navratil) ’01. She is an employee benefits consultant at Arthur J. Gallagher and Company.
Doug’s youngest son, Gannon, just finished his freshman year in Watterson Towers and is a business major. His middle brother, Logan, is a business major as well who will return in the fall as a senior. The oldest, Braxton, graduated this spring with a degree in education.
The family connection is made complete with Jeff’s youngest brother, John ’96, who majored in criminal justice. He works at State Farm as well and also resides in Bloomington.
“It’s just neat that we all share ISU,” Rexie said of the family connection. “There is always someone in the family wearing ISU gear.” All loyal and grateful Redbirds, they wouldn’t want it any other way.
