University News

Schlag Named Director of WIU Honors Program

August 2, 2019

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MACOMB, IL -- Paul A. Schlag, chief of staff and former associate director of the Centennial Honors College at Western Illinois University, has been named director of the Honors Program at WIU, effective Aug. 1, according to WIU Acting President Martin Abraham.

Schlag has served as the president's chief of staff since October 2016. He joined the WIU Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration (RPTA) as an assistant professor in 2005, and was named associate director of the Honors College in August 2014.

"We are thrilled that Dr. Schlag is returning to the Honors College," noted College Dean Rick Hardy. "He has been devoted to our Honors education and to the University over the years, and is dedicated to providing a stellar academic experience to our students as they compete at the highest levels."

In addition to serving as a professor in RPTA, Schlag also served as the assistant department chair and taught a wide range of courses regarding leadership, administration and fiscal management in recreation organizations. In his role as a faculty member, he received the Provost's Excellence in Teaching with Technology Award (2013), the Panhellenic Council Outstanding Teacher Award (2013), the College of Education and Human Services Faculty Teaching Excellence Award (2013), and the RPTA Excellence in Education Award (2009).

"I'd like to thank Paul for his service to the Office of the President and to the University," Abraham said. "Dr. Schlag's return to the Honors College provides an excellent opportunity to further our commitment to the University's strong academic programs and to our outstanding students."

Schlag earned his doctoral degree in recreation and leisure studies at the University of Georgia in 2007, holds a master's degree in instructional technology with distinction from the University of Georgia, a master's degree in public administration from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and a bachelor's degree in recreation management and youth leadership from Brigham Young University.

"It is a distinct privilege to be afforded the opportunity to continue to work with the exceptional students in the Centennial Honors College," Schlag said. "Our students are able to compete with any university students at the national and international levels, and I look forward to doing all that I can to assist them as they strive for excellence."

For more information about the WIU Centennial Honors College, visit wiu.edu/honors.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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