As the new school year begins, Western Illinois University welcomed students to its Quad Cities campus. Administrators and trustees shook hands and handed out cupcakes Wednesday during an afternoon event in Moline.
Acting President Martin Abraham says the programs at the Quad Cities campus are geared to students from a variety of backgrounds.
"We spend a lot of time in these programs looking at opportunities to connect our students with the businesses that are in the community. We look at opportunities to provide educational elements that are particularly tailored to the business community."
And since many of the students are older, with families, and other commitments, going to college at the same time can be especially difficult.
"We want to help you navigate those experiences but we need to know about it also, so when you're having issues, if there's a problem, if there's a concern - whether it's our concern or it's something else that's happening to you - please talk with us about it."
Other speakers included Board of Trustees Chair Polly Radosh and Student Trustee Justin Brown.