University News

125 Anniversary Celebration: Gracie Jones

August 30, 2024

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Editor's Note: This is the sixth in a series of stories about Western Illinois University students, alumni, and community members, highlighting their experiences during our 125th anniversary celebration. We will feature 125 individuals from August 2024 to August 2025.

MACOMB, IL – Gracie Jones, a student in Speech Pathology, chose WIU because of the program and her interest in the needs of the community she serves.

"Growing up in Macomb has given me an interesting insight into the needs of the community. Throughout my childhood, I would always see students of WIU around town or in our schools doing things. As a college student, I have strived to not only make the WIU campus a better place but also the town of Macomb. I consistently volunteer at the Crossing Church in the children's ministry, I volunteer at the annual McDonough County United Way's Power of the Purse, and I actively participate in Phi Sigma Sigma's philanthropy as well as other organizations! My passion has always been helping kids though and this past January I was chosen as the Committee Chair for WIUSSLHA's Dr. Seuss Party for our clinic kiddos. I worked for months to plan activities, games, and crafts for the kids to enjoy and we had a record-breaking turnout of over 25 clients. It was so much fun and all of my hard work paid off when I got to see all of our supervisors, clinicians, and student volunteers play with the kids," Jones said.

Jones has made many friends, gained invaluable mentors and has networked heavily to future employers.

"My experience at WIU has been nothing short of amazing," Jones said. "As I am preparing to move into the next phase of my education, grad school here at Western, I know that I am in good hands and will be well prepared to move into the professional field."

When asked what advice she would give to prospective WIU students, she responded with advice on receiving a quality education.

"My advice would be that staying local will not shortchange you of opportunities. You have your entire life to leave Macomb and the surrounding areas, but what can truly beat a quality education that you will likely receive scholarships to help pay for? The answer is not much! At WIU you are not limited even if you grew up here, I have an entirely new friend group and have still had a college experience for the books even if I'm still in my backyard," Jones said.

As we honor 125 years of educational excellence, we invite local WIU students to share their stories and be featured in our series. Contact University Communications at U-Communications@wiu.edu to participate.

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