University News

Recent WIU Alum on the Move and Reaching Goals

October 4, 2022

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL – Western Illinois University alumnus Dylan Temple will remain in higher education and athletics after being hired as assistant director of athletic Communication at Augustana College.

"Remaining in higher education, and specifically in athletics, is all I could've ever hoped for upon graduating from Western," said Temple, a 2021 graduate, with a master's degree in sport management.

Temple graduated from WIU in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting and Journalism specializing in Sports Broadcasting. During his graduate studies, Temple was a Graduate Assistant in the sport management program, working directly with athletics and serving as a department liaison.

"My fondest memories at Western stem from the gameday atmosphere around Western Hall/Hanson Field, specifically on our ESPN+ productions and in my time with WIU athletics," said Temple. "Supporting the Leathernecks at dozens of home events, and working alongside my friends and peers, will always be fond memories of mine."

Temple's time at WIU had a profound impact on both his career and his view of college sports.

"My career path could have gone in a few directions post-graduation, but ultimately I fell back into college athletics and haven't looked back," said Temple. "My practicum and operations experience at WIU made me dip my toe into nearly every space of college athletics, preparing me for the journey ahead. I made countless friends and connections that I cherish every day, with the only regret being that I was unable to have a proper send-off with some close friends due to the pandemic."

When asked what was one piece of advice he would give a current or future, Leatherneck, Temple chose to focus on the importance of the journey.

"Be vocal and ask questions. Adulting is scary, and I definitely haven't figured out nearly as much as I should by now, but by asking questions you can gain so much clarity on a potential journey that suits you," said Temple.

Temple's journey in higher education may not have come to an end after graduation but his experience in a full-time career that he loves is just beginning.

"I'm excited for this new journey at Augustana, and to represent their athletics in the same positive light I did as a Leatherneck," said Temple. "I want to thank and wish the best to all my professors and peers I didn't get to say goodbye to in the 2020 school year. I hope all of my former Western classmates and friends are thriving and getting everything they deserve in the professional world. Lastly, I want to thank my friends and family back home for their countless support. I would be nowhere without them."

For more information about WIU's Sport Management program, visit wiu.edu/coehs/kinesiology/graduate_programs/sm/.

Posted By: Lexi Dittmar (aj-dittmar@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing