University News

Just Hired: Donovan Schaefer

April 3, 2026

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Just Hired! Through the experiences of local, regional, national and international students, Western Illinois University has incredible alumni who are making an impact in the workforce. This series features students from around the world who are hired post-graduation.

MACOMB, IL — Meet Donovan Schaefer, a graduate of Western Illinois University's Recreation, Parks, Tourism, and Administration master's program and Environmental Biology bachelor's program, who was hired at the Warren County Health Department in Monmouth, IL.

Schaefer will serve as an Environmental Health Specialist, working across multiple programs within the health department. His role includes supporting environmental health initiatives such as food safety, sewage inspections and water quality testing, while contributing to broader public health efforts alongside programs like WIC and community health education.

His path to the position began with a six-month job search, where he discovered the opportunity on Indeed. Drawn to the role's focus on environmental services and protecting public health, Schaefer applied and was quickly invited to interview. After a single interview, he was offered the position within a few days and accepted.

During his time at WIU, Schaefer built a strong foundation in both the biological and natural aspects of the environment. His undergraduate coursework included subjects such as fire ecology and genetics, while his graduate studies explored areas like wilderness studies, youth and leisure services and natural resource management.

"My combination of understanding biological issues in public health, like viruses and bacteria, along with hands-on knowledge in water testing and natural resource management, helped me get this job," Schaefer said.

Schaefer plans to stay connected with WIU by remaining an active alumnus of his fraternity, Delta Upsilon, attending events and gatherings, and supporting WIU athletics and alumni initiatives.

To share your hiring story with WIU, visit go.wiu.edu/4eVgEuw.
For more information on WIU's RPTH program, visit wiu.edu/RPTH.

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