Alumni

2011 Town & Gown Award

Mick WissleadMick Wisslead

To recognize his contributions to Western Illinois University and the Macomb community, Mick Wisslead has been named the recipient of the 2011 Town & Gown Award from the WIU Alumni Association.

The Town & Gown Award, presented to an individual who has provided exceptional service to WIU and the community, was announced at the April 8 Town & Gown celebration.

Wisslead began his first four-year term as mayor of Macomb in May 2003, after retiring from a 33-year career in the banking industry. He was sworn into office for his second four-year term in May 2007. He will retire as mayor later this month.

Along with fostering a positive relationship with Western Illinois University during his terms as mayor, Wisslead also made economic development a priority, helping to bring such businesses as Pella Windows to Macomb. He currently serves on several boards and committees, including the Macomb Area Economic Development Corporation Executive Committee (MAEDCO); the Community University Partnership Program (CUPP); and the Western Illinois Economic Development Authority (WIEDA). He is also a member of the Illinois Municipal League Board and has served as the past chair of the Illinois Public Airport Association.

Al Goldfarb & Mick WissleadPrior to being elected mayor, Wisslead was an active member of the Macomb community, serving on the Airport Authority Board, the Macomb Park District Board and as a member of the Macomb City Council for 13 years.

"Mick's relationship with, and support for, Western Illinois University goes back many years. As a Macomb native, Mick has recognized the importance of a solid relationship between Western and the community. The Town & Gown Award is a testament to his dedication to Western and Macomb," said Amy Spelman, director of Alumni Relations.

Previous Town & Gown award recipients include:  Lin Stults (2010), Jerry Cremer (2009), John Maguire (2008) and Charles Gilbert (2007).

 

 

Alumni Award recipients

Alumni Award recipients at Town & Gown 2011