University News

Town & Gown to Kick Off Homecoming Events

October 1, 2024


Printer friendly version

MACOMB, IL - - The Western Illinois University Alumni Association will host the 17th annual Celebrating Town & Gown event Thursday, Oct. 3. The signature University and Community event, will feature the latest Rocky on Parade Unveiling and will kick off the 2024 WIU Homecoming activities.

The event will be held at the Park Place (formerly The Macomb Dining Company) in Macomb from 5:30-7:30 p.m. with a short program at 6:15 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.

All Alumni and Friends are invited to join Interim President Kristi Mindrup and Macomb Mayor Mike Inman as they present the 2024 Honorary Alumni Award and Town & Gown Awards. The Honorary Alumni Award is presented annually to an individual who has provided exceptional service to the WIU community. The Town & Gown Award is presented annually to an individual who has provided exceptional service in continuing the partnership between WIU and the Macomb community. Additionally, 23 newly completed Rocky on Parade bulldogs will be unveiled during the event.

Rocky on Parade is a public art project that celebrates the University's traditions, strengthens the unity of campus and community, contributes to the economic vitality and quality of life in Macomb and supports the Rocky on Parade Department of Art student scholarships through the WIU Foundation. The statues will be a part of the 2024 WIU Homecoming Parade Saturday, Oct. 12, and will be installed at their final locations throughout the community and on the University campus following Homecoming weekend.

For more information or to register for Town & Gown and other alumni events, visit wiu.edu/alumni, call (309) 298-1914, email A-Association@wiu.edu or stop by the Alumni House, located at 1009 W. Adams St.
For more information on Rocky on Parade, visit wiu.edu/vpaps/rocky_on_parade/.

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