The Sherman Circle

The Sherman Circle recognizes Western Illinois University's influential annual donors who support Western through contributions of $1,000 or more each calendar year (January 1 to December 31). Gifts may be unrestricted contributions to For the W: The Campaign for Western Illinois University or any other fund that is important to the donor, such as an academic area, organization, the Leatherneck Club, or the Performing Arts Society.

The Sherman Circle honors Lawrence Y. Sherman, Sherman Hall’s namesake. Sherman served as a legislative representative from Macomb and was instrumental in passing the bill by the Illinois General Assembly on April 24, 1899, to establish Western Illinois Normal School.

WIU alumni who graduated in the last ten years will secure recognition in the Sherman Circle with a $500 annual gift. At GOLD Level (Graduates of the Last Decade) status, you join our esteemed Sherman Circle, enjoying all benefits and privileges.

As a Sherman Circle donor, you will receive an exclusive lapel pin and invitations to Sherman Circle socials throughout the academic year. Most importantly, you will be impacting student excellence through philanthropy.

The design of the Sherman Circle logo draws inspiration from the front windows of WIU's iconic Sherman Hall. The design will be featured on the lapel pin Sherman Circle donors receive when they first reach recognition status.

Make your gift before December 31 to secure your place in the inaugural class of the Sherman Circle and to further our efforts to advance Student Success, Learning Innovation, and Scholarly Support.

SHERMAN CIRCLE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

If the below information does not answer your question about the Sherman Circle, please contact Tim Hallinan, Director of Annual Giving, at annualgiving@wiu.edu.