"Western Illinois University opened its doors in 1902 with the intention of preparing rural teachers for the classroom. Our legacy is in rural education. It's been in our foundation, in our purpose, and in our hearts since the very beginning. To continue to prepare rural teachers, and better support them in their goals, 125 years later only makes sense. With the Great River Teacher Corps, we are better able to equip future rural educators through financial support, collaboration, place-based experiences, and, honestly, a lot of fun. Great River Teacher Corps benefits WIU future teachers, but the benefits are exponentially seen across the region when they go into classrooms with the best assets to touch the lives of their students. It's a joy to be a part of it!"

-Dr. Hollie Mason, Director, Great River Teacher Corps 

“There are so, so many things I love about my rural teaching experience, but it all boils down to the deeply-ingrained sense of community. Most students don't have much experience outside the region, and being a music teacher allows me to make the world much more accessible.”

 -Rebecca Washington, Great River Teacher Corps