Bloomington Proclaims September 23, 2025, as Illinois Wesleyan University Day
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A celebration of academic excellence and community impact, Illinois Wesleyan University will be honored with a dedicated day in the City of Bloomington next year. The proclamation, issued Monday by Bloomington Mayor Dan Brady, officially recognizes September 23, 2025 – the 175th anniversary of the university’s founding – as Illinois Wesleyan University Day.
A Legacy of Learning and Civic Engagement
The announcement came prior to the Kinder Brothers Distinguished Business Speaker Series event, where Mayor Brady presented a framed copy of the proclamation to Illinois Wesleyan University President Sheahon Zenger. The proclamation highlights the pivotal role Illinois Wesleyan University (IWU) has played since its inception in 1850. Thirty founders initially signed a declaration of intent to establish the institution on September 23, 1850, laying the groundwork for nearly two centuries of dedication to higher education.
According to the official declaration, IWU has consistently served as a “vital educational, cultural, and economic cornerstone” of Bloomington. The university’s commitment extends beyond academics, fostering a “rigorous, student-centered curriculum and a steadfast commitment to civic engagement.”
A Diverse and Forward-Thinking Institution
IWU’s impact is also attributed to its inclusive campus environment. The proclamation notes the university has “welcomed a diverse student body from across Illinois, the United States, and the world,” cultivating a “vibrant, inclusive, and intellectually rich campus community.”
Furthermore, the university is positioning itself as a leader in entrepreneurial liberal arts education. This involves building upon established traditions while simultaneously developing “innovative programs that prepare students to join the workforce in a rapidly changing world.” The university’s alumni, known as Titans, are also recognized for their significant contributions across numerous fields, embodying the institution’s core values of creativity, critical thinking, and effective communication.
Strengthening Community Bonds
The City of Bloomington acknowledges IWU’s positive influence on the quality of life for its residents. The proclamation specifically cites the university’s contributions through “cultural programs, educational outreach, public service, and mutually beneficial partnerships.”
“Illinois Wesleyan University continues to inspire excellence, foster innovation, and shape the future of higher education in our city and beyond,” the proclamation concludes. Mayor Brady urges all citizens to join in recognizing the university’s “remarkable legacy, contributions, and continuing impact” on the community, the state, and the nation.
