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Macomb High School students are on campus today as part of Western Illinois University’s new pilot Dual Enrollment Plus (DE+) initiative, connecting local students with opportunities at WIU.
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WIU Launches Dual Enrollment Plus Pilot Program With Macomb High School

August 13, 2026

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MACOMB, IL. — Western Illinois University is launching a pilot Dual Enrollment Plus (DE+) initiative in partnership with Macomb High School to expand opportunities and strengthen connections with local high school students in McDonough County.

"As members of the Macomb community, we strive to provide educational opportunities to our neighbors. WIU's Dual Enrollment program creates exposure and pathways for high-achieving students to advance their education through this partnership. As WIU pilots our Dual Enrollment +, we are adding an array of benefits to both further support these students as well as introduce them to the programs and services that the University campus has to offer them," WIU Assistant Vice President of Admissions and Enrollment Support Richard Toomey said.

The program builds upon WIU's existing dual enrollment offerings by providing additional access to campus resources, services and experiences for participating students. Currently, 20 Macomb High School students are enrolled in dual enrollment courses through WIU, with participation expected to increase in the spring semester.

Students enrolled in the DE+ pilot program will have access to:


  • Athletic events

  • Access and use of the WIU Student Recreation Center

  • The eSports arena

  • University libraries

  • Dining centers and campus food vendors, including $15 loaded onto their university card each semester

  • Select student engagement events

  • Music and theatre performances

  • Career preparation programs and career fairs

  • Tutoring services


As part of the initiative, WIU plans to host an orientation for participating students to introduce them to campus and provide information about the resources and services available through the program.

Additional details about the DE+ initiative, including a potential campus event for students, teachers and administrators before the start of the high school academic year, will be announced as they become available.

For more information on WIU's Dual Enrollment programs, visit wiu.edu/dual/.
For more information on WIU and programs, visit wiu.edu.

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