Our faculty represent a broad spectrum of experience and cultural heritage. Because of the small student body, it is easy to get to know the students, get involved, and give personal attention. The students get to know each other as well - sharing experiences, ideas, and expanding their learning. Faculty often find that because the students are working adults, they challenge what they are being taught, and it is not uncommon for students to have expertise in specific areas that surpasses that of the faculty, so faculty are always learning, too. Students at WIU want to learn. They are enrolled at WIU because they are interested in their field of study, want to progress in their career or move into a new one, and want to apply what they have learned as soon as possible. The WIU two-month sessions require a fast-paced delivery, and faculty find it challenging to provide the required content in a short timeframe without overloading the students with homework. Teaching approaches must be varied and interesting to keep students focused for four hours (6 to 10 p.m.) after they have already put in a full day of work! And because of students' changing work and family schedules, faculty need to be somewhat flexible and understanding.

"In my 8 year association with WIU, I have been rewarded by the positive interaction with adult learners who have participated in the ongoing learning necessary in today’s challenging environment. The learning model provides for instruction on leading edge information and sharing of job related and personal experience. I learn as much from students and colleagues as the input I provide. My learning experience at WIU has been invaluable to my professional growth."

Mark Cox, Professor, Information Technology Department Chair, President/CEO The M Group, Inc.

"During my six years with WIU, I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience teaching undergraduate adult students. They enrich my life both as a professional teacher as well as a life long learner. It is a pleasure to teach such motivated individuals from all parts of the world and be able to learn along with them. My colleagues enlighten and inspire me to continue questioning."

Jeanne Hardy Miller, Professor of Critical Thinking and Diversity, President, Newgard Consulting

"Instructing at WIU has become a way of life for me. I enjoy the interaction with adult learners as an education in itself. This helps in my own business activities as a way of staying current and in touch with the trends. WIU offers flexibility for students and instructors. It continues to be a great personal experience."

Robert Olson, Professor of Marketing, Business Consultant

"WIU provides a warm environment that allows busy working adults to interact within a productive learning environment. The staff and faculty members of WIU create this open environment. Online or oncampus, the WIU faculty work together as a team to ensure the success of all students; I couldn’t think of a better place to be!"

Jennifer Streeter, Assistant Professor, Human Resource Management, Human Resource Consultant

"I like teaching at WIU as every class is different because of student’s ages and experiences. The learning never ends! Our older students come with many new applications and work place experiences to share. At other universities, students are younger and have fewer experiences."

Paul Brunett, Master Professor, Management