University News

Wheeler Named April 2025 Advisor of the Month

May 13, 2025

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL - - The Western Illinois University Council of Academic Advisor's (COAA) Awards and Recognition Committee has named Kenny Wheeler the Advisor of the Month for April 2025.

Wheeler joined the Quad Cities team of academic advisors in 2009, and works with the Anthropology, English, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Sociology, Psychology and General Studies (BGS) programs.

One of his advisees, a non-traditional student pursuing a BGS major after transferring from Clinton Community College, received advice from Wheeler when deciding what to pursue. She knew she wanted to work with people with substance abuse disorders and mental health issues.

"I was not very confident with technical skills, or myself for that matter," she said. "From the first time I met with Kenny Wheeler, he helped me figure out what would help me with classes and helped me to navigate the WIU pages so I could help myself. It was empowering."

Wheeler took the extra step for this student when her family was hit with heartbreaking news.

"My husband was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer and they gave him a year to live. Kenny was very sympathetic. He suggested I reach out to my instructors and explained my need to be at the doctor's appointments and hospital stays. I did that and my teachers were very understanding. This semester I took all online classes. My grades were good and I walked across the stage in Macomb, with my husband watching in May 2025. I am thankful to Kenneth Wheeler for helping to make it happen."

Another advisee, a Psychology major, expressed her gratitude for Wheeler's presence as the students navigated changes to the program. She cited his "above and beyond" approach to helping students reschedule and rearrange classes.

Congratulations to Kenny Wheeler as the April 2025 Advisor of the Month!

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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