Dear Returning Students,

As we ready for the 2020-2021 school year, I know you may have questions and concerns about returning to WIU in the midst of the pandemic.

We are looking forward to returning to face-to-face instruction and student experiences when classes resume August 24. We plan to have a full slate of classes available on campus and we are working diligently to put several protocols in place to protect the health and safety of all of our students, faculty, and staff. We will also have an expanded list of online options for you to consider, should you prefer.

What does this mean for you, our students? We will have smaller classes in larger spaces, hybrid classes that take advantage of virtual learning environments to supplement in-person instruction, increased cleaning in all classrooms, one-way entrances into our academic buildings, and much more.

If you are living in the residence halls, you will notice increased cleaning of all common areas, changes in the dining hall procedures, and other changes to address social distancing needs. Other on campus experiences, including athletics, clubs activities, rec center, and campus events, are being planned in a way that fully recognizes the need for continued social distancing. Face coverings will be provided and required. We are carefully reviewing, following, and implementing all health guidelines to ensure a safe experience for all.

We are working to best accommodate student needs to offer as many courses online or in a hybrid format as necessary. We will continue to make updates up until the beginning of the fall semester, so we encourage you to stay in contact with your advisor to ensure you obtain the best academic experience possible. We will continue to provide you a quality experience, regardless of the course delivery options you choose.

We are ready to see you again, and we are looking forward to welcoming you back to Western Illinois University in August. Please keep in touch throughout the summer and look for further updates as we continue to respond to the regularly changing environment. If you or your parents/guardians have any questions or concerns, feel free to email retention@wiu.edu. We’ll see you soon.

Wishing you the very best,

Martin Abraham
Interim President