University News

Three-Time WIU Alumna Named Galesburg Community Unit Superintendent

November 11, 2026

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL — Western Illinois University three-time alumna Sheila Coussens-Martin has been named superintendent of Galesburg Community Unit School District 205, becoming the first woman to lead the district. She will assume the position July 1, 2027.

Coussens-Martin earned a master's degree in Education in 2006, an Educational Specialist degree in 2015, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership in 2019, with all three degrees focusing on educational administration.

A native of St. Augustine in Knox County, Coussens-Martin grew up with ties to the Galesburg area and graduated from Avon High School. She brings more than 25 years of experience in Illinois public education to the position.

Since 2019, Coussens-Martin has served as assistant superintendent of curriculum and personnel at Pekin Community High School District 303. During her tenure, she has helped expand career and technical education opportunities, dual-credit and Advanced Placement offerings, and special education programming. She has also worked to improve graduation rates and ninth-grade on-track rates.

As superintendent, Coussens-Martin plans to focus on expanding work-based learning opportunities, improving student achievement and addressing achievement gaps among student populations.

Her appointment marks a historic milestone for Galesburg District 205 and highlights the impact of WIU graduates in educational leadership throughout the region.

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

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