An internal memo was sent via email to the Western Illinois University community Friday evening from WIU President Kristi Mindrup regarding the fate of WIU's longstanding ROTC program. The Community News Brief will be following up for another story. The email reads: Western Illinois University was informed June 27 by the Department of the Army that the university’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program would be discontinued at the conclusion of the Spring 2026 semester.
'We are disappointed by this unexpected decision by the Department of the Army,' said WIU President Dr. Kristi Mindrup. 'We will continue to advocate on behalf of our students and the ROTC program, and our health and wellness teams in the University Counseling Center and Student Development and Success Center are available to support students who may be struggling with the unexpected news.'
In 2013, the Department of Defense announced the closure of ROTC programs nationwide, but these programs were later restored to their full status. The WIU ROTC program currently enrolls 44 students.
Since 1968, the WIU ROTC program has produced hundreds of educated and prepared military officers for our nation. The ROTC program enriches Western’s vibrant campus community and is a vital component of the institution.
'Western Illinois University is a great place to learn and grow, thanks in part to the engagement and contributions of our active duty and veteran students,' said Dr. Mindrup. 'We are proud of our long history of being recognized as a military-friendly university.'
Western Illinois University will continue to engage in discussions around the Department of the Army's decision to discontinue ROTC and will work closely with students, staff, and impacted stakeholders.
Be watching for a follow-up story with more details in a future edition of the Community News Brief.
