University News

Just Hired: Marvēl Barnes Jr.

April 30, 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.

MOLINE, IL – Meet Marvēl Barnes Jr., a Law Enforcement and Justice Administration graduate who has enlisted in the United States Coast Guard.

Barnes will serve in the United States Coast Guard, a branch of the military within the Department of Homeland Security that operates under the Navy during wartime. The Coast Guard is responsible for protecting the environment, defending the United States and enforcing federal laws on the high seas, while also serving stateside and U.S. territories. As the only armed service with both civilian and military responsibilities, it carries out 11 missions across the Atlantic and Pacific regions.

He connected with a recruiter in Davenport, IA, and began the enlistment process by sharing his interest in adventure, law enforcement, maritime safety and search and rescue. Barnes completed the ASVAB and MEPS testing in St. Louis and successfully passed an initial fitness test, exceeding minimum standards. After entering the Delayed Entry Program (DEP), he secured a spring 2026 ship date for basic training in Cape May, NJ. Following completion of training, he will serve as a non-rate, gaining hands-on experience before specializing in a particular field.

Reflecting on his time at WIU, Barnes shared how the experience strengthened his communication skills and work ethic.

"It helped me become a better speaker and writer while developing a stronger work ethic," Barnes said. "My major prepared me for the law enforcement and search and rescue aspects of the Coast Guard and will open doors for leadership or federal investigative opportunities in the future."

Barnes plans to stay connected to WIU by sharing his experiences and mentoring students interested in law enforcement and military careers.

For more information on WIU's LEJA program, visit wiu.edu/LEJA. To share your hiring story, visit forms.gle/Dd1jjXARe6ynMPk69.

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