St. Norbert College professor's Jeopardy! winning streak comes to an end

(WLUK) -- An impressive winning streak is over, as St. Norbert College Professor Ben Chan's time on Jeopardy! comes to an end.

For nine-time Jeopardy champion Ben Chan, a high wager on final jeopardy didn't pay off. Chan was just one letter away from taking home his 10th victory on Tuesday, as a spelling error brought his reign to end.

But the SNC philosophy professor is still walking away with $254,600 in winnings. Chan has said he plans to travel and spoil his beloved rescue dogs with "the finest treats."

During Chan's time on the show, he was able to amass runaway wins nine times while also winning over fans across the country.

"I never thought about what it would be like to win because I was focused on having fun and preparing well, so it was kind of a relief/surprise," said Chan.

He discovered that most of the questions on the show are things you just have to know -- studying for Jeopardy! helped in about a quarter of the responses.

"It's been incredible. The game itself is so much fun. I'm glad it's come across on TV well," said Chan. "I just felt completely comfortable up there. I don't think I've felt more in my element, and I was anxious about all the attention, but that's been great too."

The wins have boosted his popularity around campus, where he was featured during SNC's graduation recently with some special Jeopardy! questions.

And out in the community, he's become a local celebrity getting noticed. He was even invited to throw out the first pitch at a Timber Rattlers baseball game.

"This is like the cherry on top of the winning streak," said Chan.

While the winning streak may have ended, Chan isn't completely done with the trivia show. He will be featured in the Tournament of Champions -- a tournament open to contestants who win five or more games.

The tournament is expected to take place this fall.