University News

Park District Offers Programming for WIU Students

February 24, 2015

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MACOMB, IL -- A Western Illinois University student is working to bring her University and her community together.

Erin Baldwin, a senior recreation, park and tourism administration major from Chicago, is currently completing an internship with the Macomb Park District, and as a part of the experience, she has developed a new programming series designed to get WIU students involved in the local park district. The first program -- "Don't Stop Believing" -- in the series, Spontaneous Studios, will be held from 5:30-6:30 p.m. March 3, 10 and 24 in Horrabin Hall gym on the WIU campus.

According to Baldwin, "Don't Stop Believing" is intended to give any Western student who can sing or play music -- but who has never been on a stage -- the confidence to make his or her debut at an open mic night April 2 at Chubby's. The Spontaneous Studios programs are offered free to WIU students.

"This is a great way to learn a new skill and get connected not only with others who share similar interests, but with our park district," she added. "It's important for students to learn now the value that a park district adds to a community. After we graduate, wherever we land, participating in park district programming and activities is a wonderful way to get emeshed and involved in a community."

Western's connection with the Macomb Park District has spanned the years, from current Director Ray Peterson and Superintendent of Facilities and Events Rachel Lenz graduating from WIU, to WIU faculty and staff serving as members of the Macomb Park Board and many also leading park district programs.

"We are fortunate to have such a strong connection with the University, but we want that connection to extend to the students as well," Baldwin added. "That's the purpose of the Spontaneous Studios. We want to bring the park district to Western."

For more information on Spontaneous Studios programming, contact Baldwin or Lenz at (309) 833-4562 or EM-Baldwin2@wiu.edu or r.lenz@macombparks.com.

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