Western Illinois Athletics Department Mission Statement

The Intercollegiate Athletics Department participates fully within the mission of Western Illinois University to provide the premier undergraduate and graduate education among all public universities in Illinois. The Department strives to attract a diverse group of highly qualified student-athletes and, with a focus on their personal welfare, to provide those student-athletes with premier academic and athletic experiences. Through coaching, competitions, mentoring, and specialized student-athlete support services, the Department encourages all participants to succeed at the highest possible level in academic programs and athletic competitions. By this dedication to athletic and academic excellence, the Department seeks to build a sense of pride among its student-athletes in representing Western Illinois University.

Western Illinois University Mission Statement:

Our Vision: Western Illinois University will be the leading comprehensive university in the United States.

Our Mission: Western Illinois University, a community of individuals dedicated to learning, will have a profound and positive impact on our changing world through the unique interaction of instruction, research, and public service as we educate and prepare a diverse student population to thrive in and contribute to our global society.

Our Values:

Academic Excellence: Central to our history and tradition is the commitment to teaching, to the individual learner, and to active involvement in the teaching-learning process. Western Illinois University’s highly qualified, diverse faculty promotes critical thinking, engaged learning, research and creativity in a challenging, supportive learning community. We are committed to an academic environment that encourages lifelong development as learners, scholars, teachers, and mentors.

Educational Opportunity: Western Illinois University values educational opportunity and welcomes those who show promise and a willingness to work toward achieving shared educational goals. We are committed to providing accessible, high quality educational programs and financial support for our students.

Personal Growth: Because Western Illinois University values the development of the whole person, we are committed to providing opportunities for personal growth in an environment that supports the development of wellness, ethical decision making, and personal responsibility.

Social Responsibility: Western Illinois University is committed to equity, social justice, and diversity and will maintain the highest standards of integrity in our work with others. We will serve as a resource for and stimulus to economic, educational, cultural, environmental, and community development in our region and well beyond

Accreditation Statement: Western Illinois University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association. Information about the Commission may be obtained by contacting the Commission offices and staff at 30 North LaDalle Street, Suite 24000, Chicago, IL 60602-2504; telephone 312/263-0456.