James Bierman

James Bierman

Newton; Elected to Serve July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026

James Bierman, a Junior majoring in Agricultural Business from Newton, Illinois, has been elected to serve as the Student Representative to the Board of Trustees for the term from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

James has strong ties to Western Illinois University (WIU), as both of his parents are alumni. He was raised in Macomb until high school, after which he moved to Downs, Illinois, where he attended Tri-Valley High School. Following his high school graduation, he chose WIU as the next step in his academic and personal journey.

Since arriving at WIU as a freshman, James has pursued a degree in Agricultural Business while actively engaging in a variety of extracurricular activities. He holds leadership positions in several campus organizations, including serving as the Vice President of Management and House Operations for Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, and as President of the Ag Mech Club for two years. Under his leadership, the Ag Mech Club successfully organized and hosted the largest student-led agricultural show in the nation. Additionally, James is involved in the Ag Vocators, the MMA Club as an assistant coach, the Boxing Club, and the Wrestling Club. During his sophomore year, he was honored with the Cliff Becker Award, an accolade voted on by the faculty of the Agricultural Department. This prestigious award recognizes a student who demonstrates exceptional involvement within the department, embodying the grit, energy, and resilience that Cliff Becker exemplified during his time as a student.

James’s passion for agriculture is rooted in his upbringing on and around his family’s farm in southern Illinois, where he continues to contribute alongside his grandparents, parents, and brothers. During the academic year, he also assists as a farmhand in the local agricultural community for Russell Farms.

A dedicated advocate for WIU and its students, James is committed to ensuring that all the voices of his peers are heard. He is focused on supporting the continued success and growth of the university. As James states, “Leathernecks are strong and will remain strong. I hope to keep the tradition of toughness alive for many future generations to experience this institution as I have.”

James Bierman is set to serve as the Student Representative to the Board of Trustees from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

Contact: 
Student Organization Center, Western Illinois University
1 University Circle
Macomb, IL  61455
Email: JE-Trustee@wiu.edu