Alumni
Gary Johnson 1984
Degree: Bachelor of Scienc degree in Law Enforcement Administration with dual minors in Security Administration and Sociology from WIU in 1984. Designated as Certified Protection Professional (CPP) by American Society for Industrial Security.
Business Information: Retired after 40 successful years in Corporate Security, leading Asset Protection Programs for brands like The Guitar Center, The Vitamin Shoppe, Barnes & Noble and Osco Drug, Inc. In 2024, was inducted into the National Retail Federation’s Ring of Honor. Now, I do some consulting and advisory board work.
Advice for Freshmen: Get involved on campus and don't be afaid to step outside your comfort zone. The connections you make and experiences you have at ´ºÓêÖ±²¥ will shape your future in ways you can't imagine. Take advantage of every opportunity to learn, whether in the classroom, through student organizations or just experiencing everyting WIU and Macomb offers.
Favorite WIU Memory: Of course being a resident in Lincoln Hall and the lifelong friendships formed through those years. And, in 1980, experiencing Van Halen and the Marshall Tucker Band in ´ºÓêÖ±²¥ Hall was memorable.
Family Information/Special Interests and Hobbies: Enjoying retirement in Charleston, SC. Married to my wife, Theresa, for 40 years (who also attended WIU). We have two sons who are successful in their careers. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, sporting events, and staying active. I remain engaged with ´ºÓêÖ±²¥ Illinois University and serve as an Advisory Council member for the Law Enforcement & Justice Administration program.
Connect with the Alumni Association: