Alumni
1998 Honorary Alumni Award
Laura Kent Donahue
Donahue, a Quincy native, has represented Illinois' 48th Senatorial District since 1981.
"She is a very vocal advocate for Western Illinois University," said Gordy Taylor, associate vice president for alumni programs.
"Under Senator Donahue's service, WIU has received additional funding for agriculture research, infrastructure and programs. She sponsored legislation to expand the state's new interactive educational network, based at WIU, which offers instructional programs via satellite to school districts across the state.
"In addition to work in state government, Laura can be seen at many events supporting WIU and the region, including every WIU homecoming since 1981," Taylor added. "She has been an inspiring mentor for WIU students pursuing political or public service careers. She understands the vision of WIU and epitomizes the true tradition of an honorary alumni."
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