University News
Alumni Patio Dedication Set for Oct. 2
September 29, 2015
MACOMB, IL -- Later this week, hundreds of Western Illinois University alumni and friends will trek back to campus for Homecoming 2015, where they'll gather to reminisce, watch the Homecoming parade and cheer on the Fighting Leathernecks. Homecoming is the perfect opportunity for Western alumni and friends to meet at a favorite old stomping ground, and this year, they'll have a new place to call their own.
At 2:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 the Jim & Betty Garner Alumni Legacy Patio Dedication and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony will be held at the front of the Alumni House on Adams Street, as part of the Homecoming weekend celebration. This project was brought to life thanks to a gift from Susan Wenzel '86 and her husband, Tom, who wanted to honor Susan's late parents in a meaningful way. Wenzels' gift in honor of the Garners funded Phase II of the Alumni Legacy Project, improving the front of the Alumni House and grounds, creating better accessibility and more space for activities. Phase I was completed in 2012.
"My parents made it a priority in their lives to building new friendships and maintaining old ones. I am truly grateful that Brad Bainter brought this project to my attention last year. Knowing that the Alumni House is an important place on WIU's campus that fosters relationships by keeping people connected, it is very comforting for me and my family to know that their names are associated with this special gathering place," Susan said.
"The Alumni House is definitely a gathering place for WIU alumni and friends throughout the year but it's at its busiest during Homecoming weekend. And as ones who always opened their home to guests, it seemed only fitting that the Wenzels honor Susan's parents in this manner," added Amy Spelman, director of Alumni Programs. "The Jim and Betty Garner Alumni Patio is the perfect place to catch the WIU Homecoming parade or mingle with friends and former classmates at Homecoming 2015 and beyond."
For more information about the legacy project, visit wiu.edu/alumni/groundsrenovation.php
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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