University News

Letter to University Community: Giving Thanks

November 18, 2016

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Dear University Community,

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, I wish to offer my gratitude for the many opportunities and privileges we enjoy at Western Illinois University.

American poet and author William Arthur Ward once said, "Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings." Let us take time during the break to reflect on our blessings and the positive facets of our lives.

While we are often bombarded with negativity in today's society, Western Illinois University leads the way in showing that good things are happening all around us. During the month of November, our students, faculty, and staff came out in full force, as they do nearly every day, to be of service to others. Our University community donated more than 6,000 pounds of food to local food pantries through the annual "Stuff the Bus" program, the men of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity raised funds for The Ability Experience, a nonprofit program serving individuals with disabilities, and the Dance Marathon hosted a pancake supper to raise funds for the Children's Miracle Network. Our Veterans Resource Center collected donations for holiday stockings for residents of the Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy, numerous volunteers from the University community came together to assist the City of Macomb with the "Flags of Love" project on Veterans Day, the WIU-Quad Cities Student Recreation Association organized activities for Quad Cities area children, and the accountancy and Office of Student Activities' Angel Tree projects are underway.

These are just a few examples of the many ways our University community positively influences people's lives. When I hear about all of the ways our students, faculty, staff and alumni serve others, I am filled with gratitude. It is an honor to serve as president of this great University.

I wish all of you a peaceful and safe holiday, filled with gratitude and joy. Thank you for all that you do for Western Illinois University.

Sincerely,

Jack Thomas
President

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing