University News

125 Anniversary Celebration: Grace Branch

January 13, 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 Grace Branch sees Western Illinois University as a place where individuals thrive and uncover their potential to make meaningful changes in the world.

"When I think about WIU, I think about a place and community that allows students, both current and prospective, faculty and staff to thrive and learn not only about themselves but also their potential and the changes they're able to make in the world," Branch said.
To Grace, being a Leatherneck is about strength and determination.

"A Leatherneck means being strong and determined in pursuing your dreams and persisting through challenges no matter the difficulty," she shared.

One of Grace's favorite WIU memories is move-in day.
"My favorite Leatherneck memory is probably move-in!" Branch said. "I've been an RA for the past two years and there's nothing quite as exciting as seeing people move back in after summer break. Being able to see familiar faces and meet new ones is so thrilling and I love welcoming new students to Western and seeing how excited they are to start their journey."

On campus, Grace has been highly involved, serving as a Resident Assistant, and participating in RockyTHON, WIUSSHLA, choir ensembles and the Centennial Honors College.

Grace's advice to prospective students highlights the unique opportunities and connections WIU provides.

"I think WIU often gets overlooked because of the area and our lower enrollment, but WIU is an amazing place to learn and gain new skills and experience because of the ability to make meaningful connections with your peers and your professors," she said. "At WIU, all the faculty and staff genuinely want to see you succeed and are always willing to help make sure that happens. WIU is my home away from home."

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