Olympic Park

About Western Illinois University

Western Illinois University was first founded in 1899 as Western Illinois State Normal School in Macomb, Illinois. As the institution grew, it changed names a few more times before becoming the Western Illinois University we love.

Western offers over 100 undergraduate majors, 38 graduate programs, and two doctoral degrees to it's students, as of Fall 2022, Western proudly serves 5,736 students.

What is a Leatherneck?

Western Illinois University holds the distinction of being the only non-military institution to officially have its nickname derived from a branch of the military service.

The school began use of the Marine Corps’ official nickname, "The Fighting Leathernecks," in 1927 when then-athletic director and head baseball, basketball and football coach Ray "Rock" Hanson was granted permission by the U.S. Navy, based on his status as a Marine hero, to use the Marine’s official seal and bulldog mascot along with their nickname.

About Macomb Illinois

Founded in 1830, Macomb was named after Alexander Macomb, a general in the war of 1812. Macomb has continued to have a rich history with over seven US Presidents visiting Macomb, being the host site for the St. Louis Rams Summer, and being the home for the inventor of Monopoly, Macomb holds these and many more memories!

Located in the west central part of the state and directly in the center of McDonough County, Macomb serves as the county seat and has assumed the position of the regional center for the area, by providing not only retail and manufacturing opportunities, but also by providing health care, entertainment and cultural services as well.

You will find that Macomb is a diverse community with an interesting blend of agriculture, industry, service, retail, education and culture. We would like to think that we have the best of all worlds in Macomb.

Try & Find these amazing murals while you are here!

mural 3

mural 2

mural 1