University News

Col. Rock III (Rocky) Eighth Birthday Celebration March 2

February 26, 2018

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MACOMB, IL -- On Saturday, March 3, Col. Rock III, WIU's beloved mascot, will officially become eligible for AARP (American Association of Retired Pups).

Celebrate Col. Rock III's "56th" (or eighth) birthday from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, March 2 in the University Union Concourse. The celebration will include with cupcakes (for his friends and one for the birthday boy) and Rocky stickers (and posing for photos) to celebrate his special day. High fives and hand (paw) shakes will also be provided to those who ask him nicely.

Rocky became a member of the Leatherneck family in May 2010 as a 10-week-old pup. WIU alumnus Joe Roselieb, director of residential facilities at Western, is Rocky's person (and trainer and chauffeur). Roselieb oversees every aspect of Rocky's care, from providing him with a loving home to teaching the "old" dog new tricks to making sure he's healthy to taking him to numerous WIU and community events each year.

"These past eight years have been incredible," Roselieb said. "And even though he's getting close to retirement, Rocky will continue to be a part of my family -- and the WIU family -- and will continue to be spoiled with belly rubs and popcorn."

The English bulldog was donated to Western by Richard and Beth Siess of the Siess Ranch in Seneca, KS. Dr. Karen Blakeley of Macomb's All Pets Veterinary Clinic and the WIU School of Agriculture, along with other University and community organizations and individuals, make sure Col. Rock's care is tended to.

To help supplement funding for Rocky's care, the Western Illinois University Foundation established the Col. Rock III Fund, which helps meet travel-related, food, healthcare and "clothing" expenses. Donating is simple: text the word "Rocky" to 84700 to make a $10 contribution to the WIU Foundation. Donations, made payable to WIU Foundation, can also be sent to: WIU Foundation, 303 Sherman Hall, 1 University Circle, Macomb, IL 61455-1390. Contributors who send in donations are asked to include a note that designates the gift for Rocky's Fund.

To follow Col. Rock on Facebook, key "Colonel Rock" in the search bar or go to his page at facebook.com/Col.RockIII.

For more information on Rocky's Fund, contact the WIU Foundation Office at (309) 298-1861.

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