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Nadia Soares Indjai, WIU public health graduate student.
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125 Anniversary Celebration: Nadia Soares Indjai

June 4, 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 - Nadia Soares Indjai, a current public health graduate student, sees Western Illinois University as an impactful institution where students are welcomed as they are, challenged to grow and inspired to move forward.

"WIU isn't just where I attend classes; it's where I've been challenged to think boldly, serve meaningfully and build a future that reflects both where I come from and where I'm going," Indjai said. "It's a place where my voice matters and where my identity as a global learner isn't just accepted but celebrated. Here, I'm not just earning a degree; I'm becoming a bridge between worlds, ready for the transformation of my community. That kind of impact starts in a place like WIU."

For Indjai, Leathernecks represent resilience and determination—a strong desire to succeed and overcome obstacles.

"Being a Leatherneck means carrying resilience in your bones and purpose in your heart," Indjai said. "It's about rising to challenges with grit, whether you're balancing studies and family, crossing continents to pursue your education or daring to dream of change in places the world often overlooks."

Indjai's favorite Leatherneck memory is her first day of class, where she had the opportunity to introduce herself and share about her home country, Guinea-Bissau.

"Many people had never heard of it before and I felt both the weight and the pride of representing a nation that's often left out of global conversations. In that moment, I wasn't just a student, I was an ambassador of my culture, my people and our untold stories," Indjai said. "What made it unforgettable was the curiosity and respect I received from classmates and professors. It reminded me that WIU is a place where diverse voices are welcomed and even small countries like mine can take up space and be heard. That day marked the beginning of a journey where I felt empowered to embrace my identity and use it as a source of strength in everything I do."

With students considering further studies, Indjai highlights the impact of joining the WIU community and becoming a Leatherneck.

"A Leatherneck is someone who leads with integrity and service. It means using your education not only for personal success, but also to uplift your community and create a ripple effect of positive impact," Indjai said. "Wearing the Leatherneck name reminds me every day that excellence is earned and it's meant to serve something greater than yourself."

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 Public Health program, visit wiu.edu/graduate_studies/programs_of_study/health_profile.php.

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