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Kylie Kinser is Western Illinois University's nominee for the Lincoln Academy of Illinois Student Laureate Award
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Kinser Named WIU Lincoln Laureate Nominee

June 22, 2026

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MACOMB, IL - - Western Illinois University is proud to recognize senior Kylie Kinser, Speech Pathology and Audiology major of Greenfield, IL, as the school's nominee for the Lincoln Academy of Illinois Student Laureate Award.

Kinser, who has a minor in American Sign Language, said this is an honor she doesn't take lightly.

"It feels like a surreal accomplishment to be named Western Illinois University's nominee for the Lincoln Illinois Student Laureate Award," Kinser said. "Starting your college career is always an exciting journey and my goal was to be a driven and active student but as a freshman I could have never imagined being where I am today. It is an honor to represent this amazing university and the Speech Pathology and Audiology department as both have supported me in my career success!"

In addition to her studies, Kinser has been involved in the WIU Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (WIUSSLHA), the Women's Club Basketball Team, Campus Students For Christ, Every Voice and working as an employee at the WIU Bookstore.

"Kylie is a great example of the kind of students we have at WIU," WIU Provost and Academic Vice President Mark Mossman said. "Her dedication and outstanding work make her more than deserving of this recognition."

As the WIU Student Laureate, Kinser will be presented with a certificate, a medallion, a challenge coin and a $1000 stipend at the recognition ceremony in Springfield, IL on Saturday, Oct. 24.

"This honor continues to strengthen my passion for being an ambitious student and will be something I hold in high regard moving forward in my career," Kinser said.

For more information on WIU's Speech Pathology and Audiology programs, visit wiu.edu/spa.

For more information on the Lincoln Academy of Illinois Student Laureate Award, visit lincolnacademyillinois.org/students.

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