University News

WIU Fall 2024 Commencement Dec. 14

December 11, 2024

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL — An esteemed ceremony acknowledging the academic and personal triumphs of Western Illinois University students and alumni is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14 in Macomb. This special event will honor graduates at all levels, representing both the Macomb and Quad Cities campuses.

There are 665 students eligible to participate in the Fall 2024 Commencement ceremony, which includes 430 undergraduate students; 230 master's-level graduate students; four students are earning their doctoral degree in Educational Leadership (Ed.D.): Yohanna Agyei (Cape Coast, Ghana) Cara Allison Cerullo (Macomb, IL) Kirsten A. Knowles (Brookshire, TX), Jodi K. Pospeschil (Macomb, IL); and one student is earning a Ph.D. In Environmental Science, Large River Ecosystems: Samuel Babatunde (Akure, Nigeria).

Ceremony Live Stream
The ceremony will be available via live stream on WIU's YouTube channel.

Commencement Program
This semester's Commencement program is available online at this link.

Alumni Achievement
This year's Alumni Achievement Award recipients are exemplary individuals who have left an indelible mark in their respective fields. Their outstanding contributions will be celebrated during the 9:30 a.m. ceremony.

The Western Alumni Achievement Award is given to alumni who have made outstanding contributions in one or more of the following ways: exceptional accomplishment in their chosen field, exceptional service in local, state or national affairs and exceptional service in support of the advancement and continued excellence of WIU.

This year's recipients are Melody A. Betts and Steven D. Hensley. Their achievements are a testament to their dedication and impact in their respective professions and service to Western Illinois University.

Flags
Flags of 18 nations will be displayed in Western Hall, representing students in the Fall 2024 graduating class. The flags represent the following countries: Bangladesh, Canada, Dominica, Ghana, Grenada, Haiti, India, Jamaica, Jordan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Nigeria, Paraguay, St. Kitts and Nevis, Thailand, Turkmenistan, the United States and Zimbabwe. Western Illinois University was home to students from 66 countries during the Fall 2024 semester.

Gonfalons and Gonfaloniers
Since their debut in the Fall 2009 Commencement ceremonies, WIU gonfalons — banners hanging from crossbars on poles — have become a cherished tradition. They represent the University, the School of Graduate Studies and each of the four academic colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business and Technology, Education and Human Services and Fine Arts and Communication. Additionally, gonfalons celebrate the Centennial Honors College and WIU Libraries.

Photos
Each graduate will have their photograph taken as they receive their diploma cover. Proof sheets will be sent from WIU's Photography and Design Production office to each graduate, along with instructions for ordering photos.

Open Ceremonies; ADA Requests
A sign language interpreter will be available during the ceremony and assistive listening devices will be provided to the public at the table located south of the stage in Western Hall.

Disability Accommodations
Students in need of accommodations for the ceremony should reach out to the Student Development and Success Center at (309) 298-1884. Staff will be present at all commencement ceremonies to assist with disability seating for guests.

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