University News

Just Hired: Destinee Jaquez

June 4, 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 Destinee Jaquez, a new Admissions Recruiter at Upper Iowa University, after completing her Master of Science in College Student Personnel Student Affairs at Western Illinois University.

Jaquez has joined Upper Iowa University's Office of Admissions, where she will work directly with prospective students and families throughout the college search and admissions process. In her role as Admissions Recruiter, she will support enrollment efforts through student outreach, recruitment events and relationship-building initiatives designed to help students find the right path to higher education.

She discovered the position through HigherEdJobs and submitted an application online. Shortly after applying, she was invited to participate in an on-campus interview process that included conversations with several campus partners. Drawing on her five years of experience in the Undergraduate Admissions Office at WIU as both an Admissions Ambassador and Graduate Assistant, Jaquez shared her background in recruitment, student engagement, event planning, student staff supervision and admissions communications. Her experience and passion for helping students navigate the college admissions process ultimately helped her secure the position.

Reflecting on her time at WIU, Jaquez highlighted the value of building meaningful relationships, effective communication, leadership and student-centered service. Through leadership roles including Admissions ambassador, graduate assistant, Homecoming director and National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH) president, she gained hands-on experience working with diverse student populations, planning large-scale events and supporting students throughout their educational journeys.

Jaquez said her graduate program in College Student Personnel Student Affairs provided a strong foundation in leadership, student development theory, assessment, advising and inclusive practices. Combined with her extensive admissions experience, the program prepared her to connect with students and families, understand their needs and guide them through the transition to college.

As she begins her professional career, Jaquez plans to remain connected to WIU through the relationships and professional networks she developed during her time on campus. A proud double alumna, she also looks forward to returning to Macomb each year as a member of the Marching Leathernecks Alumni Band and continuing her Homecoming tradition on Hansen Field.

For more information on WIU's College Student Personnel program, visit wiu.edu/cas/csp/.
To share your hiring story with WIU, visit go.wiu.edu/4eVgEuw.

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