125 Anniversary Celebration: Tabitha Jozwick

March 14, 2025

Printer friendly version

Alumna Tabitha Jozwick.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

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, IL - - Alumna Tabitha Jozwick describes Western Illinois University as a second home.

"When I think about WIU, I think about how it becomes an alumni's second home," Jozwick said.

For Jozwick, being a Leatherneck means being committed to supporting and caring for other members of the community.

"A Leatherneck means showing support and giving a hand when someone needs help," Jozwick said.

When reflecting on her time at WIU, Jozwick's favorite Leatherneck memory is the opportunity to present at a conference and share her valuable experience and insight.

"My favorite Leatherneck memory happened during the 2007 IRHA conference," Jozwick said. "I did a presentation called ‘Autism: The myths, realities and the autistic culture' to educate people about autism and my own experiences with autism. I received a Top 10 program award for it. I have presented the program three times since then."

Jozwick currently works at Casey's West in Macomb and credits her overall experience at WIU with shaping her to be hardworking and dedicated.

"The hard work and dedication I learned outside of the classroom helped me with my current position," Jozwick said.

During her time on campus, Jozwick enjoyed being involved in resident hall life and volunteering.

To prospective students, Jozwick's advice is to consider WIU as a strong option for all it has to offer.

"If you are neurodivergent and considering college, I will highly recommend Western," Jozwick said. "The small class sizes are beneficial, and it makes it a lot easier to get to know your classmates a lot better. My advice is to make sure your time can help you gain both hard and soft employment skills."

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

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