Showcasing a welcoming community to prospective Western Illinois University students and their families is an essential part of the recruitment process, and WIU Admissions is looking to area WIU alumni, along with community members, faculty and staff to help provide a personal touch to new students considering Western as their school of choice.
On Wednesday-Thursday, April 1-2, Western's Office of Admissions is hosting events on campus and in the community for individuals to help with personal outreach to the Fall 2026 incoming class.
'We are asking for our faculty, staff, current students, local alumni and others to be a part of our shared work to bring in our newest class of Leathernecks. It just takes a few moments to write a personal postcard to a newly-admitted student,' Assistant Vice President for Recruitment and Enrollment Rich Toomey said. 'For many students, they look to make a commitment to their college choice in early May and this postcard campaign is an opportunity to introduce each new student to the community we have right here in Macomb.
'Our hope is that by making a personal connection, these newly admitted students will develop a sense of the community that exists across campus and the city of Macomb,' he added. 'Establishing that connection may influence their college choice, and help them appreciate the benefits of being a student at WIU. Enrollment is job number one and is a shared responsibility.'
Individuals from the community interested in participating can connect with members of the admissions staff from 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, April 1 event at the Sports Corner in downtown Macomb. Additional opportunities for faculty, staff and current students will be held on campus at the University Union from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, April 1-2, as well as from 11 a.m.1 p.m. at the Thompson and Corbin-Olson dining halls.
'We welcome everyone to visit with our team and take just a few moments to connect with a future Leatherneck and make a difference in someone's college search decision,' Toomey concluded.
