University News

WIU Hosts Illinois Supreme Court “Riding the Circuit” Program

April 9, 2026

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MACOMB, IL — Western Illinois University hosted the Illinois Supreme Court as part of its "Riding the Circuit" program March 11, bringing approximately 500 students, community members and special guests to the University Union Grand Ballroom.

The Court heard oral arguments in two cases, giving those in attendance a firsthand look at how legal decisions are made at the state level.

The event served as an opportunity to welcome prospective students to WIU through a unique, real-world experience. A total of 287 middle and high school students attended the event, with schools traveling to campus to observe the proceedings. The visit provided attendees with direct exposure to the judicial system and an opportunity to experience a college campus setting.

The program included an educational overview led by Patricia Walton, assistant professor in WIU's School of Law Enforcement and Justice Administration (LEJA), along with graduate assistants Omar Medina, Catherine Nott and Kiley Higby. Walton, who served 25 years as an associate judge in Illinois' Ninth Judicial Circuit, and her students provided attendees with context about the court process and guidance on what to observe during oral arguments.

Following the arguments, attendees participated in a moderated question-and-answer session with Ninth Judicial Circuit Court Judges Nigel Graham and Heidi Benson as well as attorney Emily Sutton.

"Hosting the Illinois Supreme Court for arguments on campus was a great honor for WIU and an incredible opportunity for our students and community," said Drew Donahoo, director of Donor Relations & Special Events. "We are grateful to the Court for selecting WIU as the host site for the 2026 Riding the Circuit event and inspiring future generations of law professionals."

The event was sponsored by the WIU Foundation, the WIU College of Arts and Sciences, the WIU Department of Political Science, the Illinois Supreme Court, the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts and the Supreme Court Historic Preservation Commission.

Since 2008, the Illinois Supreme Court has held arguments in communities across the state to increase public understanding of the judicial system. Hosting the program continues WIU's role in supporting educational outreach and community engagement.

For more information on WIU's programs, visit wiu.edu.

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