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WIU President To Assist With Economic Development

Rich Egger

President Jack Thomas said WIU should have a seat at the table when it comes to business recruitment efforts for Macomb.

“As president of this university I feel that I should take a role because we have the largest economic impact here in the area,” Thomas said.

“As president, if you look at other institutions who are in college towns, they play a major role. Western should play a major role.”

He said prospective students, faculty, and staff are interested in more than just the university -- they also want to know about local attractions and amenities. One frequent request among students is for more chain restaurants in Macomb.

Thomas will be involved in a meeting this week with Mayor Mike Inman and a potential business investor.

“Mayor Inman had mentioned one venture and he invited me to meet with the individual along with him,” Thomas said. “I’ve already talked with the individual before. And that individual wanted to meet with me as well because they are concerned about our institution. We have a stake in this.”

Neither Thomas nor Inman could disclose who the investor is or the type of business they’re interested in opening in town.

Thomas will also be taking a seat on the board of directors for the Macomb Area Economic Development Corporation.

“The president was originally supposed to sit on the board is what I was told and I will be sitting on the board from this point on,” Thomas said.  

Previously that spot was filled by Western’s Vice President for Advancement and Public Services, Brad Bainter.

Emily Boyer is a former reporter at Tri States Public Radio.