University News

Congrats to Professor Sarah Shike, honored as WIU’s Professor of the Game on Nov. 8 for her excellence in teaching, mentorship and dedication to students.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

Students Malini Tia and Tristin Bron surprised Professor Shike with their nomination during Friday night’s practice—celebrating her impact both in and out of the classroom.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

Surrounded by the team at dusk on Hanson Field and recognized again during the game, Professor Shike capped off the weekend with a family-hosted tailgate and a Leatherneck comeback win!
[Download Print-Quality Image]

Shike Served as Professor of The Game Nov. 8

November 19, 2025

Printer friendly version

MACOMB, IL — Western Illinois University School of Management and Marketing faculty member, Sarah Shike was selected as the University's Professor of the Game for the Nov. 8 football game vs. Lindenwood, held in conjunction with WIU's Serve and Protect Day.

Shike was recognized for excellence in teaching, mentorship and her longstanding commitment to WIU. The honor was presented following Friday night's practice, where students Malini Tia and Tristin Bron, both enrolled in MGT 474(G): Entrepreneurship and Small Business, spoke about why they nominated her for the recognition.

During the ceremony, Shike was honored on Hanson Field at dusk, surrounded by the team. The following day, she was recognized on the field just after the third quarter.

A tailgate hosted by Shike's family brought together students and friends before kickoff, complete with taco soup, hot cider, cupcakes and yard games. Although rain started falling before halftime, the day ended with a comeback win for the Leathernecks — a fitting finale to the weekend's celebration.

Shike has been with WIU for nearly 22 years and currently serves in the School of Accounting and Finance. After earning her MBA from WIU in 2003, she began working in economic development outreach roles on campus, first with the Western Illinois Entrepreneurship Center, where she advanced to director and later with the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs. She began teaching management courses in 2008, transitioning to full-time faculty several years later. In 2021, she earned her Doctor of Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

For more information on WIU's School of Management and Marketing, visit wiu.edu/Marketing.

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