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Penny Pollock was selected for a 2026 Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) Illinois Nurse Fellowship Award.
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Pollock Earns IBHE Nurse Fellowship Award

December 18, 2025

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MACOMB, IL - - Western Illinois University is proud to announce School of Nursing instructor Penny Pollock was selected for a 2026 Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) Illinois Nurse Fellowship Award.

Pollock plans to use this $10,000 award for tools that will allow her to better serve her students to teach essential skills and imbue confidence in her students.

"My goal is to equip students with the fundamental skills, clinical judgment and confidence necessary for academic and clinical success," Pollock said. "I plan to pursue professional development activities that will enhance my ability to instruct and mentor beginning nursing students. A strong foundation in the first year of nursing education is critical for student success and long-term retention in the program."

Pollock's 34 years of nursing experience and 15 years of nursing education expertise has been invaluable to WIU. It highlights the high level of training its students receive while entering a high-demand field, setting the standard for continued success when entering the work force.

The Nurse Educator Fellowship Program aims to ensure the retention of well-qualified nursing faculty at institutions of higher learning that award degrees in nursing. This year, the IBHE awarded $800,000 in fellowship prizes, providing up to 80 nursing instructors across Illinois with salary supplements for professional development, conference expenses, continued education and professional dues.

"Penny plays a critical role in the academic success and retention of our students by serving as one of the first points of contact for novice nursing students," WIU Director of Nursing Patricia Eathington said. "Her commitment to equity in nursing education is evident in her teaching philosophy and practice. She consistently goes above and beyond to support students who may face academic, social or financial barriers to success."

To learn more about WIU's nursing program, visit wiu.edu/nursing.

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