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Janus to be Presented CAS Distinguished Alumna Award Nov. 7

October 30, 2015

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MACOMB, IL - The Western Illinois University College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) will host its ninth annual Scholars, Donors and Alumni Recognition Dinner Saturday, Nov. 7 in the University Union Lamoine Room.

A social will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and a program recognizing student scholars, donors and the 2015 CAS Distinguished Alumna. This year's recipient is Linda E. Janus, who is a 1970 WIU graduate with a bachelor's degree in history. She received her master's degree in history from Northeastern Illinois University and continued with graduate-level history and literature courses at Roosevelt University.

Janus had a varied and distinguished career as a teacher, introducing American Studies and Women's Studies to suburban Chicago schools and fighting for the inclusion of the courses in the curriculum. She has also served as a mentor, working with fellow teachers, volunteers and church members.

With her twin sister, Laura, the pair was the first in their family to graduate from college. Janus worked at the Arlington Heights Post Office for one year after high school to save enough money for college. She returned to the job on breaks from school.

After graduating from WIU, Janus began teaching social science at Fremd High School in Palatine, IL, where she taught from January 1971-June 2003. She also taught American studies, history, literature and the arts during her tenure at the school.

Janus has been an active member of the United Church of Christ at Arlington Heights since 1999. She helps with the church's programs to provide meals and a place to sleep for the homeless. She also serves as a board member for an agency that provides services for victims of sexual assault.

For more information about the CAS dinner or to register, visit wiu.edu/cas.

Posted By: WIU Athletics (SID@wiu.edu)
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