Here at Western Illinois University, we have a lot to be proud of. Aside from a beautiful campus, several nationally-recognized programs, and a great community of people, students can also look forward to leaving with a degree. WIU has a very high graduation rate, and was recently selected as a “model institution for degree completion” with a graduation rate at 59%. Al Goldfarb, the President of Western Illinois University and another thing WIU can be proud of, is one of the reasons why the school has been recognized.
Despite being the head of a state university, dealing with a budget crisis and putting the finishing touches on another school year, President Goldfarb found time to speak with me last week. He talked about the progress the university has made under his watch, and what steps were taken to get there. “In 2002, when I arrived, Western’s graduation rate was 50.8 percent. The Grad Track program, which guarantees graduation in four years for most programs, certainly has provided a great incentive for our students to succeed and graduate. Advisers work closely with students to keep them on track to take the necessary courses so they can graduate within four years,” Goldfarb said.
President Goldfarb went on to talk about the other reasons for WIU’s graduation success. “I believe that the implementation of the First Year Experience program has also helped to improve retention and graduation rates. The program provides the necessary support so that our student’s have a successful transition into their first year at Western. The resources we provide our students, including careful academic advisement, tutoring assistance, and support within our residence halls, also play a vital role in the retention and eventual graduation of our students,” Goldfarb said.
I asked President Goldfarb how proud he is of the recognition earned and progress made by WIU during his tenure. “While these recognitions are certainly valued and much appreciated, I am most proud of our students’ many successes – both in and out of the classroom – as well as the outstanding achievements of our faculty and staff. This is a university that truly cares about students and puts our students first. The achievements we’ve had over the past several years, including new academic programs, national recognitions, and new facilities, are due to a great many people in our university community. I know the work of this great university will continue long after I’ve retired because of the wonderful people who support our students,” Goldfarb said.
Congratulations to all of the WIU graduates who are the main reason for the increase in degree completions. WIU’s graduation rate rose over 9% over the past eight years, and I think there is still room to grow. I am very proud to be part of that 59% this spring and would like to thank Western Illinois University for continuing to put its students on the path to success.
David
