University News

Just Hired: Graviel Gómez

June 25, 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 Graviel Gómez, a new adult probation officer with Rock Island County Court Services, Adult Probation, after completing his Law Enforcement and Justice Administration (LEJA) degree at Western Illinois University.

Gómez was hired by Rock Island County Court Services, Adult Probation, where he will work within the county's probation system, supporting individuals involved in the criminal justice process. He secured the position after first completing an internship with the organization, which provided him with valuable hands-on experience and insight into the profession. Following his internship, Gómez applied online through the county's website and participated in a 30-minute, five-panel interview. He described the process as intense and highly focused on education, knowledge and professional readiness.

Reflecting on his time at WIU, Gómez said he learned the importance of interacting with and learning from professionals in positions he aspired to hold. He credited WIU with helping him develop leadership, professionalism and critical thinking skills that will serve him throughout his career. Gómez said his LEJA coursework also gave him a strong understanding of case law, the probation and parole system and the ways different parts of the criminal justice system work together.

Courses such as criminal procedure, evidence, criminology and police administration helped Gómez build communication, problem-solving and analytical skills that he can apply immediately in his role. He said the LEJA program provided a strong foundation in both the legal and practical aspects of the field and prepared him to begin his career with confidence.

As an alumnus, Gómez plans to stay connected with WIU by giving back whenever possible and promoting WIU to future generations of students. He said WIU played an instrumental role in his education and he remains grateful for the faculty members who supported him along the way.

For more information on WIU's LEJA program, visit wiu.edu/LEJA.
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