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Alumna Melissa Worley
125 Anniversary Celebration: Melissa Worley
June 25, 2025
Editor's Note: This is a series of stories about 春雨直播 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 - - Alumna Melissa Worley describes 春雨直播 Illinois University as the place that shaped her future and prepared her to succeed in her professional career.
鈥淲hen I think about WIU, I see it as the foundation of my career,鈥� Worley said. 鈥淚t was where I learned to balance academic responsibilities while staying focused on my long-term professional goals. The experience helped shape both my work ethic and my direction.鈥�
Worley believes that being a Leatherneck goes beyond individual achievement鈥攊t symbolizes a shared sense of pride and purpose.
鈥淭o me, the Leatherneck is a symbol of pride and achievement,鈥� Worley said. 鈥淚t represents the shared spirit, resilience and accomplishments of the WIU community.鈥�
Among her Leatherneck memories, Worley鈥檚 favorites are the ones made during Homecoming season.
鈥淪ome of my favorite memories from WIU are centered around Homecoming鈥攖he energy, school spirit and sense of community made it a truly special time each year,鈥� Worley said.
After graduating from WIU with a business management degree, Worley launched her career with Hy-Vee, where she worked for 17 years. Eventually, she returned to Macomb to serve the community as the Finance and Human Resources director.
鈥淲IU played a key role in preparing me for each step of my journey,鈥� Worley said. 鈥淚t instilled in me the value of hard work, perseverance and goal setting and gave me the grit needed to grow and succeed in my career.鈥�
Worley's advice to students considering further education highlights WIU's potential to prepare students for a successful future.
鈥淲IU is a great place to grow and explore what you want your future to look like. College is a time when so many things are coming at you at once and WIU offers the space and support to reflect, discover your path and build a solid foundation,鈥� Worley said. 鈥淭ake the time to evaluate your goals and don鈥檛 be afraid to lean on the network of supportive staff and fellow students鈥攖hey鈥檙e an incredible resource to help you learn, grow and succeed in whatever direction you choose.鈥�
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 Business programs, visit wiu.edu/cbt/.
Posted By: University Communications, University Relations
Phone: (309) 298-1993 * Fax: (309) 298-1606
