125 Anniversary Celebration: Destinee Jaquez

March 19, 2025

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Graduate student Destinee Jaquez.
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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, IL - - For current graduate student Destinee Jaquez, Western Illinois University is where she found a welcoming community that inspires her to be better.

"When I think about WIU, I think about the amazing connections I made with such an open-armed community that continues to help me become the best version I can be," Jaquez said.

For Jaquez, being a Leatherneck means helping and supporting others, striving to build a healthy community where the love of WIU brings people together.

"My definition of a true Leatherneck is someone who is dedicated to helping and supporting others. Someone who wants to see others thrive and show the pride of why we all love Western Illinois University," Jaquez said.

Jaquez's favorite Leatherneck memory is being part of the incredible Marching Leathernecks. The honor of being in the band family until her senior year will always hold a special place in her heart.

"As a Senior in the Marching Leathernecks I got to be played out of the band after being a part of the family for the last four years which will forever be the most beautiful moment I will experience on our Hanson field," Jaquez said. "Many just think of the band as just playing but it really means more and we're all just one big family."

Jaquez graduated in 2024 and decided to continue her education at WIU by pursuing a master's in College Student Personnel: Student Affairs. Her experience at WIU shaped her career path and inspired her to support and assist others in their own educational journey.

"My undergrad helped prepare me to keep going with my education because I fell in love with helping students through their college journey," Jaquez said. "My involvements within my undergrad prepared me to be where I am right now. With the hands-on opportunities I am getting I will be prepared for my career after graduation in 2026!"

Jaquez, striving to help Leathernecks on their journey, is actively involved on campus through various organizations. Currently, she is a graduate assistant in the Undergraduate Admissions Office. She was also a member of the Hall Government, president of the National Residence Hall Honorary, desk, resident and summer assistant, homecoming director and admissions ambassador.

To prospective students, Jaquez's advice is to consider becoming part of the inspiring WIU community and take advantage of the opportunities and experiences the school has to offer.

"If you're on the fence take the risk and jump," Jaquez said. "You will find your people here because everyone really cares about one another. This community will help you be where you need to be for your future. WIU has many amazing opportunities to get involved, hands-on experiences, and networking. So why not come here?"

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.

To learn more about the WIU college student personnel graduate programs, visit wiu.edu/coehs/cnedcsp/csp/index.php

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