University News

125 Anniversary Celebration: Cara D. Erude

February 3, 2025

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Editor's Note: This is a series of stories about Western Illinois University students, alumni and community members, highlighting their experiences during our 125th anniversary celebration. We will feature 125 individuals from August 2024 to August 2025.

MACOMB, IL – Alumna Cara D. Erude credits the remarkable professors in the Sociology Department at Western Illinois University with transforming her educational journey and life.

"Throughout my educational journey, I had never encountered a teacher who truly invested in, believed in, encouraged, challenged and supported me until I met the remarkable professors in the Sociology Department at WIU," Erude said. "Their influence has been a transformative cornerstone in my life."

For Erude, being a Leatherneck means pursuing your goals, staying true to yourself and helping others along the way. Her favorite Leatherneck memory highlights this sense of connection.

"When COVID shelter-in-place started, my classmates and I formed virtual study groups. Each week, we looked forward to connecting and studying together. These study groups were a great way to stay connected and keep up with our studies," she shared.

When Erude first came to WIU, she was unsure about her academic focus. After meeting with her undergraduate advisor, she was encouraged to explore her interests, eventually gravitating toward Sociology.

"My professors were always supportive and believed in me, even during challenges," Erude said. "They provided me with the essential skills I needed to succeed in my current role as an Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant."

In her career, Erude works with providers, families and children aged 0-5 to promote social-emotional learning and enhance the capacity of early childhood educators.
During her time at WIU, Erude was actively involved as a member of Alpha Kappa Delta, a Sociology Ambassador and a Teaching Assistant, experiences she credits for shaping her leadership and academic journey.

These experiences helped her grow, and she advises prospective students to give WIU a visit.

"Trust your instincts completely! If WIU feels like the right choice during your campus visit, then you should absolutely attend. My professors were fantastic and I built lasting friendships that made my experience unforgettable," Erude said.

As we honor 125 years of educational excellence, we invite local WIU students, alumni and community members to share their stories and be featured in our series. Contact University Communications at U-Communications@wiu.edu to participate.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing