University News

125 Anniversary Celebration: Cassandra Richards

November 1, 2024

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Editor's Note: This is the first 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 – For Western Illinois University alumna Cassandra Richards, being a Leatherneck embodies what it means to be in the Midwest.

"Being a Leatherneck is true to our Midwestern culture - kind, caring, hardworking and inclusive," Richards, a spring 2020 Anthropology graduate, said. "Leathernecks are prepared to protest mistreatment of those who are marginalized and members of our community being targeted by harmful policy or law."

Richards said her favorite memories were taking classes and making friends with other freshman students during the first year on campus and her trip to Puerto Rico in 2019. She said WIU prepared her for her subsequent graduate program and career by creating connections that have lasted since graduation.

"My mentor and one of my favorite professors at WIU, Heather McIlvine-Newsad, stayed connected to me the whole time, writing letters of recommendation and helping guide my search for programs, so it's safe to say that the connections and lessons you learn at WIU follow you in life," Richards said.

She encourages students looking at their collegiate experience to look beyond the surface of their options and connect with faculty members at WIU to learn how great the programs can be.

"Be sure to connect with one or more faculty members in the areas you are interested in, especially as an undergraduate student," Richards said. "Those sturdy connections will be foundational to your future career, academic or not. So much of the faculty are so kind, it's really helpful to have people on your team when semesters can get overwhelming!"

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: Aaron Viner (AP-Viner@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing