University News

Horrabin Hall Tree House Dedication Set for Sept. 17

September 10, 2021

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MACOMB, IL - - Western Illinois University's Infant and Preschool Center recently received a new tree house donation from WIU Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration (RPTA) Department Chair Emeritus Dan Yoder, and his wife, Sheryl. A dedication will take place at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 17 at the WIU Horrabin Preschool playground.

The Yoders dedicated the tree house in memory of Susan Vaughn, who passed away in 2016, while she was employed as a child development associate at the WIU Infant and Preschool Center.

"My wife, Sheryl, and I decided on this donation to Western because we just owe so much to the University. I consider my time at Western one of the greatest privileges I have ever had. I miss so many things about Western, especially the students," said Dan "When I reflect on my time there … the people at WIU enhanced our lives so much. It was the best job anybody could ever have.

"I especially loved it when I went to Horrabin for meetings and would see the little ones at the Infant and Preschool Center. They are just so full of life and so happy to be there," Yoder added. "Sherri [Moon, director of the WIU Infant and Preschool Center] is always so pleasant. I think her devotion carries over into the devotion of the people who work there. She should be proud of what she has done there."

"Dan and Sheryl have been so generous to Western over the years, and it is always so gratifying to see former professors give back because of the good times and experiences they had at Western," said Brad Bainter, executive officer of the WIU Foundation. "What a great tribute to a former employee of Western that will bring so much joy to children for many years to come."

The College of Applied Sciences and College of Education established the Infant and Preschool Center in Fall 1977 as a lab-training site. In 1990, the College of Education and Human Services took over the full administration of the center. An average of 600 college students utilize the center each semester for observation and hands-on experience. The center is licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services to serve children, six weeks to 6 years of age.

Space is limited. To attend, RSVP by calling (309) 298-1861 or emailing wiufoundation@wiu.edu.

For more information on WIU's RPTA department, visit wiu.edu/rpta.

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