University News

125 Anniversary Celebration: Omar Medina

December 16, 2024

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Editor's Note: This is 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/MOLINE, IL - - Current student Omar Medina sees Western Illinois University as a place of progress, diversity and unity.

"When I think about WIU, I think about being progressive," Medina said.

To Medina, being a Leatherneck embodies leadership, advocacy and inclusivity.

"Being a Leatherneck means always being a leader, being the voice for the people who don't have one, finding ways to help others and the community and allowing the university to be more diverse and uniting everyone, regardless of race, sex or gender," he shared.

One of Medina's favorite WIU memories is cheering alongside fellow students as the Leatherneck football team claimed a victory on campus.

"The students were so happy and excited to see them win and we were happy we got to witness something major happen on our campus," Medina recalled.

Medina's involvement on campus highlights his dedication to making an impact. He is a member of Sigma Lambda Beta, the Student Government Association and the Minorities in Blue/Transfer Student Organization. He also serves on the E-Board for the Multicultural Greek Council and works as a Resident Assistant.
As a transfer student, Medina immersed himself in the opportunities WIU offers and encouraged others to do the same.

"Get involved. There are so many opportunities here on campus and you can network in clubs, sports, classes and more," Medina said. "I came here as a transfer student and I got involved as much as I could to make a difference. Make every moment here count because after you graduate, you'll wish you did more."

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

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing