University News
WIU, Dot Foods Partnership
November 4, 2010
MACOMB, IL -- Western Illinois University's core value of educational opportunity extends far and wide beyond the traditional campus borders, and a partnership recently formed between Dot Foods, Inc. of Mt. Sterling (IL) and WIU is providing that educational opportunity to all Dot Foods employees around the U.S. and their family members.
The agreement between the two entities allows Dot employees and their families to take courses to complete WIU's Bachelor's in General Studies (BGS; formerly called the Board of Trustees Bachelor of Arts degree) via distance learning options. The partnership extends to all Dot Foods locations: Chesterfield, MO (sales office); Ardmore, OK (distribution center); Modesto, CA (distribution center); Burley, ID (distribution center); Liverpool, NY (distribution center); Vidalia, GA (distribution center); Williamsport, MD (distribution center); Cambridge City, IN (distribution center); Chicago (drop-site for trailers); and Mt. Sterling (corporate offices/distribution center).
"The BGS program is individualized and flexible. Our partnership with Dot Foods, Inc. allows Dot employees and their family members the opportunity to obtain their bachelor's degrees while remaining in their home community," Richard Carter, director of the School of Distance Learning, International Studies and Outreach, said. "We are pleased to provide this unique educational option to the Dot family of employees."
The Bachelor of Arts in General Studies program (then called the Board of Governors program) was created in 1972 to serve adult students who are unable to attend a traditional college program due to family, work or community obligations. Rather than requiring a specific major, the program allows the student to design her or his program to meet individual educational goals. Students may also be eligible for academic credit for college-level learning that was done in a non-collegiate setting, such as the military or on-the-job training.
"With this partnership agreement with Western Illinois University, Dot Foods, Inc. can ensure a bachelor's degree program opportunity is provided to all employees as one of the seven hallmarks of Dot's unique culture and environment - educating, training and developing employees," said Jeff Bottorff, DOT Foods, Inc. vice president of training and quality. "Dot Foods recognizes the value of every employee's contribution and it is our mission to help all employees maximize their potential."
For more information about WIU's BGS program or the WIU/Dot partnership, contact Western's School of Distance Learning, International Studies and Outreach at (309) 289-1929 or e-mail Carter at R-Carter@wiu.edu.
Posted By: Darcie Shinberger (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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