WIU: Who We Are, What We Do: The Sweets

University News

WIU: Who We Are, What We Do: The Sweets

May 6, 2016

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Behind the bricks and mortar, there are the people of Western Illinois University and the Macomb community.

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Who We Are:

Paul Sweet '97/'09, from Cordova, IL. I moved to Macomb to complete my undergraduate degree at Western. Upon graduation, I began work as a graphic designer at the Center for the Application of Information Technologies (CAIT) and have made Macomb and WIU my permanent residence for over 20 years. In my spare time I enjoy coaching for the YMCA and Macomb Little League Association.

Dawn Sweet '01/'06, from Carthage, IL. I was a commuter student during my undergraduate years at Western. I met Paul during my freshman year, and moved to Macomb when I married Paul. I spend my free time watching my kids play sports, spending time gardening and landscaping, cooking/baking, and volunteering at youth events.

Together we are the proud parents of Austin (12) and Justin (6)! They keep us very busy!

What We Do:

Paul: I am the associate director for CAIT. I earned my B.A. in graphic design from Western, as well as my M.S. in instructional design and technology at Western.

Dawn: I am the instructional development services manager for COEHS. I earned my B.S. in instructional technology and telecommunications and my M.S.E.d. in educational and interdisciplinary studies at Western. I currently serve on the McDonough County Youth Taskforce and the McDonough County Interagency Council.

Why We Love WIU: WIU is our home! It's the place where we met and started our family. Our colleagues are like family. Western has also provided us with excellent educational and career opportunities. Western has given us so much and we are grateful to have the opportunity to give back through our service to this University and the Macomb community. Macomb is a great place to raise a family. The Macomb schools have been wonderful for our children. There's always something going on in town and on campus for the boys to participate in. Whether it is sports related, nature related, art, or science and math focused, we can certainly find ways to engage them in worthwhile activities. WIU plays a huge role in the community and youth development in Macomb. Staying at WIU, and in Macomb has allowed us to raise our boys near our own families in a community similar to those that we grew up in. Finally, just take a walk around campus any given day and you will see a beautiful place with wonderful people! Yet another reason we love WIU!