A Farewell Letter from Alumni Council President Eldon Brown `96

eldon

Dear Alumni,

As I end my term as Alumni Council President, I want to thank you for your continued support of Western Illinois University. Serving in this role has been a great honor and I am more optimistic than ever about our future.

The past several years have tested us. Western has weathered a global pandemic, a state budget crisis, and a steep decline in college-bound students. The Western community has pulled together to fight for our survival and build a foundation for our future. 

We’ve named one of our own, Dr. Kristi Mindrup, as WIU’s 13th president. She brings a deep understanding of our history and a willingness to make the difficult decisions needed to secure our future. Her leadership team is lean but strong, shaped by internal promotions that reflect a commitment to continuity, institutional memory, and immediate impact.

Our Board of Trustees has found its footing and is moving forward with purpose and clarity. In close partnership with the administration, it has demonstrated a commitment to thoughtful decision-making to ensure Western's long-term strength and sustainability. These efforts have included difficult reductions in faculty and staff, and we owe deep gratitude to those who have served Western with passion. Looking ahead, I am optimistic that our new direction will allow for more gradual and strategic adjustments that support continued growth and stability. 

Perhaps most inspiring, I’ve had the chance to spend time on campus with our students. The WIU they experience may look different from the one we knew, but the heart of Western remains. They’re building lifelong friendships, being taught by dedicated and accomplished faculty, and gaining the skills that define what it means to be a Leatherneck. Soon, they’ll enjoy the incredible new Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts, which stands as a testament to how Western continues to evolve and stay true to its regional mission.

As alumni, we all have a role to play. Please consider:

  • Returning to campus and reconnecting with WIU and Macomb
  • Speaking to a class or mentoring a student
  • Giving back to the areas and programs that helped shape who you are today

Just as we benefited from the support of those who came before us, WIU now needs our time, our input, our dedication, and our generosity. 

Finally, I’m thrilled to pass the baton to our next Alumni Council President, Molly Holmes ’21, ’24. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside her and know she’ll lead with dedication, thoughtfulness, and pride. Please show Molly the same support and encouragement you’ve shown me. Serving in this role has been a privilege, and I remain proud to be part of the WIU alumni family. I hope to see many of you at the Homecoming parade this October 18.

 

Go ’Necks!

elsign

Eldon Brown `96