University News

Just Hired: Jada Lathen

July 2, 2026

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Just Hired! Through the experiences of local, regional, national and international students, Western Illinois University has incredible alumni who are making an impact in the workforce. This series features students from around the world who are hired post-graduation.

MACOMB, IL – Meet Jada Lathen, a new fourth-grade teacher at Edison Elementary School in Macomb after completing her Elementary Education degree at Western Illinois University.

Lathen was hired by Edison Elementary School, where she will begin her career teaching fourth grade. She secured the position following her student teaching experience at the school, which gave her the opportunity to build relationships with faculty and demonstrate her skills in the classroom. Because of her success during student teaching, she was invited to interview for an available position for the upcoming school year.

Reflecting on her time at WIU, Lathen said the University's education program and extensive field experiences played a critical role in preparing her for the classroom. She said WIU taught her to take advantage of opportunities, get involved on campus and make the most of every experience.

"I'm grateful for all of WIU's field experience opportunities required for education majors because it truly opens the door to so many career opportunities," Lathen said. "Being able to be in school settings so early in my college career has made me feel fully confident in having my own classroom this year."

Lathen credits WIU's Elementary Education program with giving her the hands-on experience and confidence needed to begin her teaching career. She said the required field experiences allowed her to apply what she learned in the classroom while developing the skills necessary to become an effective educator.

As an alumna, Lathen plans to remain connected to WIU by supporting Leatherneck Athletics and giving back to her sorority, Sigma Sigma Sigma. Living in Macomb will also allow her to continue attending campus events and supporting the University.

For more information on WIU's Elementary Education program, visit wiu.edu/Education.
To share your hiring story with WIU, visit go.wiu.edu/4eVgEuw.

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