Western Illinois University marked a milestone on Monday, Sept. 23, by celebrating the 125th anniversary of its founding.
In 1899, the Illinois legislature passed a bill to create Western Illinois State Normal School. Macomb was chosen as the site for the school a year later.
On the morning of Sept. 23, 1902, the university welcomed 13 faculty members and 229 students with a two-hour dedication ceremony at the building now known as Sherman Hall.
A hand-held bell was rung that day, and on Monday, Interim Provost Mark Mossman did likewise to carry on the tradition.
The party also included birthday cake, giveaways, music from the Marching Leathernecks, and speeches.
WIU Board of Trustees Vice Chairperson Polly Radosh told the crowd that Western’s alumni include CEOs, state lawmakers, and business leaders.
She’s heard many speak at graduation ceremonies, and she said it’s not uncommon for them to share stories of humble beginnings.
“Often they were first generation college students, and describe what Western did to pull their potential to the surface for recognition and action,” Radosh said.
She said WIU continues to help students transform their lives.
She also acknowledged that WIU currently faces formidable challenges, but she said the university will prevail by innovating and evolving.
“For all of the history of Western, an underlying theme of commitment and dedication has propelled the institution through challenging times,” Radosh said.
She said WIU has a community of dedicated people who will persevere through adversity.
Interim President Kristi Mindrup said WIU has evolved from a teachers college to a comprehensive university that serves a diverse student population and offers programs that meet the needs of the region.
“Today, our university’s priorities center on aligning with student interests and regional workforce needs, on expanding educational access for first generation and traditionally underrepresented students, and new markets of adult and online learners,” she said, adding the university will continue to evolve.
“We are the founders of the future.”
Mindrup said WIU has remained true to its initial mission of expanding access to higher education.
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