Student Profiles

What makes Western Illinois University so great? Our students and alumni, of course! These profiles are a glimpse of just a few of our current and recent students we're proud to have at Western Illinois. Be sure to check back to view new student/alumni profiles.

Head shot of Kevin.Kevin Caples

“I’ve grown accustomed to the 'Western-way-of-life.' I love the fact that there is so much to do at Western. I have been provided with so many opportunities to get to know people, stay active, have fun and get a beneficial education.”

Head shot of Beth.Beth Ewing

"My academic curriculum at WIU has prepared me, and is preparing me, for the future by offering courses in several kinesiology-related topics to give me an expansive knowledge of the field. And the studies I'm able to conduct are giving me hands-on experience that is vital to my work as a researcher."

Head shot of Delmar.Delmar O. Dade

"Giving these scholarships gives kids like me hope. There is nothing more fulfilling than having a university want YOU to attend their school. This feeling is far bigger than the monetary worth of this scholarship."

Head shot of Mark.Mark Gryczka

  • Major: Biology/Pre-Med
  • Hometown: Moline, IL

"The Honors Program has been great. It has given me such great opportunities and it really allows me to challenge myself," Mark said. "I'm just glad Western gave me a chance to enroll and show my true potential."

Head shot of Jessie.Jessie Kallman

  • Major: Sociology
  • Hometown: Moline, IL

"Both the in-class and out-of-class experiences have added to my life, and I will always hold Western near to my heart and will always be a proud alumna."

Theatre students in master class.Unlimited Opportunities

Theatre students at Western Illinois University have unlimited opportunities to learn from the best.

From alumni like Michael Boatman and Landon Shaw to master teachers like Lionel Walsh to their very own Western professors, students enrolled in the theatre program live and work Western's core values of academic excellence and educational opportunity every day.

Pictured Right: A Master Class for Theatre students in the College of Fine Arts & Communication's Recital Hall

Head shot of Rocky the Mascot.Rocky, Mascot

  • Major: School Spirit
  • Hometown: Macomb, IL

From Rocky's blog:
"Some of you have asked what I do when I’m not at football and basketball games, and the answer is EVERYTHING! When I’m not in my doghouse pumping iron to “Eye of the Tiger,” I’m making special appearances at groundbreaking ceremonies or other University and community events around Macomb."

Check out my facebook page!

Head shot of Kristin.Allison Morgan

“I love Western; it has been an amazing time in my life. All the professors I have had really want me to succeed. They actually care about me as an individual and really want to see me grow more as an individual and as a student.”

Head shot of Student in Period Costume.Scholarships -- Creating Academic Opportunity

“There are people who want to help students achieve their goals, who want to give back to WIU, and who want to leave a legacy. Every scholarship donation has a positive impact on a student's life. With increasing costs and decreasing state support, there is a need for more diverse scholarships to meet our students' needs.” – Janice Owens, Director, Scholarship Office