University News

Schuch Named Executive Director of Retention Initiatives

November 30, 2020

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL – Justin Schuch, interim executive director of retention initiatives at Western Illinois University, has been named to the permanent position following an internal search.

Schuch was named interim executive director of retention initiatives in January 2020. He began his career at Western in 2015 as the assistant director of residence life for leadership and development in University Housing and Dining Services. He was named the director of the Office of Student Rights, Responsibilities and Retention Initiatives in February 2019, and served as the director of Student Judicial Programs from September 2018 through January 2020. Schuch He has also served as a University 100 instructor at Western since August 2016. Before joining WIU, he was the coordinator of residential leadership and engagement at Southern Illinois University.

"As the interim executive director, Justin immediately began creating and establishing new retention initiatives to help our students, such as the Leatherneck Care Referral Program," said Gary Swegan, interim associate vice president for enrollment management. "We're pleased that Justin will continue as the executive director of retention initiatives. His efforts and attention to detail will ensure that students have access to resources and support to be successful at Western Illinois University."

He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from Eastern Illinois University.

The executive director of retention initiatives within the Division of Enrollment Management, provides leadership in coordinating, planning, implementing and evaluating retention and student support initiatives. The executive director works closely with academic affairs and student services to ensure processes are in place to support students and to develop and monitor retention metrics. The executive director oversees orientation activities, including registration and fall and spring welcome week activities, and supervises the First Year Advising Center, Center for Career Preparation and Employer Engagement, and Transition and Academic Skill Center.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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