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d Sodexo Resident District Manager Allen Nemec and DFMH Chair Karen Greathouse
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Sodexo Scholarship Gift

October 11, 2012

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MACOMB, IL -- In an effort to align with Western Illinois University President Jack Thomas' commitment to increase funding for scholarships, Sodexo has committed $400,000 over the next four years to Western Illinois University to fund scholarships.

"Our intent is to assist with retention and graduation rates, as well as help recruit high achieving students," said Sodexo Resident District Manager Allen Nemec. "Our effort is consistent with what Dr. Thomas mentioned in his inaugural address, as well as Sodexo's commitment to support every community in which we have the privilege to provide our services."

Sodexo's scholarship commitment is shared between the new Western Commitment Scholarships and the Department of Dietetics, Fashion Merchandising and Hospitality. A gift of $250,000 will be directed to the Western Commitment Scholarships to strengthen recruitment and retention, while $150,000 will fund annual scholarships for high-achieving students majoring in dietetics or hospitality management.

"Sodexo's goal is twofold. We wish to be part of the Western Commitment as a stakeholder in the Western community, and we wish to assist students pursuing dietetics or hospitality management and planning to enter our industry," Nemec added.

A contribution of $50,000 will be made annually to the Western Commitment Scholarship for five years, and $50,000 will also be given to DFMH for the next three years to fund five $10,000 scholarships.

"We are so appreciative of Sodexo's assistance to the Western Commitment Scholarship and to the Department of Dietetics, Fashion Merchandising and Hospitality," said WIU President Jack Thomas. "Their partnership means a great deal to this institution, and is evidence of their commitment to Western."

Sodexo has been a long-term partner with DFMH in educating dietetics and hospitality management students through providing outstanding industry experiences and internships. Sodexo professional staff is accessible to students to provide guidance in making class projects successful.

"The Sodexo Scholarship for dietetics and hospitality management is yet another Sodexo commitment to education," said DFMH Chair Karen Greathouse. "It will serve as an outstanding recruitment and retention tool for top students in the field. The faculty and I very much appreciate Sodexo's support of our students and of Western's program."

For details and application information, contact the DFMH department at (309) 298-1085.

Posted By: Julie Murphy, WIU Foundation (WIUNews@wiu.edu)
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