University News

Mourn Death of VPSS Staff Member

August 16, 2010


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MACOMB, IL – Tara N. Chambers, 33, an office support specialist in the Western Illinois University Office of the Vice President for Student Services (VPSS), was killed in a go-kart/all-terrain vehicle accident Friday evening (Aug. 13), northwest of Bushnell (IL), according to the Illinois State Police-District 14.

Chambers, a 1995 Bushnell High School graduate and current student in Western's Board of Trustees Bachelor of Arts Degree program, joined the Vice President for Student Services office in July 2005. She was named the Student Services Employee of the Year in 2009.

"The Western Illinois University community mourns Tara's tragic death," said President Al Goldfarb. "We send our condolences and thoughts to Tara's family and friends."

Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, August 18 at the Martin-Hollis Funeral Home in Bushnell, where friends may call after 2 p.m. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 19 at the Christian Community Center in Bushnell. Burial will be in the Prairie City Cemetery.

"Tara was an outstanding staff member who worked very hard every day to help students be successful. She was bright, talented and eager to help. Tara always had a smile on her face and will be missed by her colleagues and office mates," said Vice President for Student Services Garry Johnson.

Chambers is survived by her parents; two sons; two brothers; and paternal grandparents. Memorial contributions may be made to an education fund for her sons. Donations may be sent to: Tara Chambers Memorial Fund, 742 N. Dean St., Bushnell, IL, 61422


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