WIU: Who We Are, What We Do: The Hancks Family

University News

WIU: Who We Are, What We Do: The Hancks Family

June 22, 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: Jeff and Meredith Hancks.

Meredith: I'm a wife to Jeff Hancks, and mom to our three children: twin boys who are starting kindergarten and a toddler girl. I love reading, writing, and problem solving and at WIU, I have found a position that requires all of those skills on a daily basis.

Jeff: Since 2005, I have called Macomb home, although since August 2015, I have been on sabbatical in Rødding, Denmark teaching and researching at Rødding Folk School. I'm also a husband, a father, a son, and a brother. I'm originally from Rock Island, but I have also lived in Chicago, Wisconsin, Michigan and Denmark.

What We Do:

Meredith: I came to WIU from Minnesota in 2007 to conduct prospect research and data analytics for the foundation and development office. I've also had the opportunity to teach on campus, and to take coursework toward the business analytics certificate.

Jeff: I'm a professor in University Libraries. I coordinate the Archives and Special Collections Unit, which focuses on preserving and disseminating the history and culture of west-central Illinois and WIU. I also conduct research on Illinois history, serve on several University committees, and teach UNIV 100 and in the Honors College

Why We Love WIU:

Meredith: I love all the different types of people that make up the WIU community. I'm starting my 10th year this year, and it feels like "home." I love that there are many opportunities to get involved around campus; whether taking classes, teaching classes, serving on committees, attending events, or any number of other activities, it seems there are countless opportunities for interacting with other members of the campus community.

Jeff: I am really proud of the vital role WIU plays in making lives better for people residing in west-central Illinois and beyond. As a Quad Cities native, I'm especially excited to see our growth and development there. WIU is full of smart, talented, dedicated people, and I am proud to be a part of our University community. Furthermore, the Macomb community has been a great place for Meredith and me to build our lives and raise our family.

#WeRWIU