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English alumna Annette Glotfelty.
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125 Anniversary Celebration: Annette Glotfelty

May 21, 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 - - English alumna Annette Glotfelty sees Western Illinois University as an influential place—one that inspired her to explore her identity.

"When I think about WIU, I think about a time for learning about who I was, what I valued and where I wanted to go," Glotfelty.

For Glotfelty, being a Leatherneck is about being part of a family that fosters personal growth.

"Being a Leatherneck means being part of a student-centered community that provides opportunities for personal development," Glotfelty said.

Glotfelty's favorite Leatherneck memories are the times she spent meeting new people and having fun with her friends.

As a postdoctoral fellow at the Mayo Clinic, Glotfelty credits her program and experience at WIU with preparing her to succeed in her career.

"My humanities degree from WIU prepared me to be a research scientist by encouraging me to embrace my curiosity, think creatively and critically and question existing assumptions," Glotfelty said. "My time at WIU prepared me to be a clinician by teaching me to communicate effectively, consider alternative perspectives and build professional relationships."

During her time as a student, Glotfelty was involved in the Student Government Association (SGA) and other committees such as the Campus Master Plan Steering Team and Provost Search Committee. She also worked as a tutor in the University Writing Center.

As students consider furthering their education, Glotfelty's advice highlights the environment of growth and learning that WIU fosters.

"Your time at WIU will be full of opportunities for growth and learning," Glotfelty said. "If you choose to attend, build relationships with your peers and professors, take chances, seek resources and have fun!"

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

To learn more about the WIU English programs, visit wiu.edu/cas/english/.

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