University News
WIU Virtual Founders' Day 2021
September 23, 2021
MACOMB/MOLINE, IL – In 1899, a bill to establish Western Illinois University (then called Western Illinois State Normal School) was passed by the state legislature. Macomb was selected in 1900 as the location for the new normal school in west central Illinois, and on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 1902, Western Illinois State Normal School opened its doors for the first official day of classes on the new campus.
"On this meaningful day in the history of WIU, we take time to reflect on the founding of this great University and to celebrate our first day of classes at Western Illinois State Normal School on September 23, 1902. As your 12th president, I am incredibly appreciative to be here and to join each of you in making continued historic and positive strides at WIU," said WIU President Guiyou Huang. "We have been a strong institution for over 12 decades, and we will continue to grow and thrive for many years to come. We will continue to provide educational access and opportunity for all, and help change people's lives. Western Illinois University makes a difference, and each of you has the ability to positively impact so many. This is has been our mission and tradition since 1902."
Posted By: Alisha Looney (AA-Looney@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing
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