University News

125 Anniversary Celebration: Reagan Erickson

January 6, 2025

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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 Reagan Erickson sees Western Illinois University as a community of connection, support and pride.

"When I think about WIU, I think about my community," Erickson said. "I love walking around and seeing the people I know and always meeting more people too. I think about my community in my department and how I know they will always be there for me."

To Erickson, being a Leatherneck means proudly representing WIU and encouraging others to experience the unique sense of belonging the university fosters.

"Being a Leatherneck means that I am representing this school proudly," Erickson said. "My mom went to school here and I have been visiting since I was a kid. I am now a Leatherneck myself and I want to encourage people to come to Western. I want others to experience the community me and my mom have gotten from this university. I wear my purple and gold with pride and I urge other people to become a Leatherneck too."

One of Erickson's favorite WIU memories is her first year on the WIU Dance Team when she performed with the Marching Leathernecks.

"During my first year performing at the marching band show we host, we were announced on the field to the crowd of high school students," Erickson said. "The announcer repeated our announcement a second time because he didn't think they cheered loud enough. The second cheer was so loud, it crashed like a wave against me from across the football field. It was the coolest feeling I've ever experienced and I will never forget it."

In addition to the Dance Team, Erickson has been involved in Rockython, WIUSSHLA, the Centennial Honors College and WIU Undergraduate Admissions, showcasing her commitment to the campus community.
Her advice to prospective students is simple and impactful.

"Come for a campus visit and see what it's really like here," Erickson said. "Coming to visit shows how amazing our university is and you can get the opportunity to meet your professors and fellow students as well. I can even give you your tour!"

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