University News
Homegrown Leadership: Ï㽶ÊÓƵ's First Alumna President
September 9, 2025
From the pages of the Summer 2025 Ï㽶ÊÓƵ Alumni Magazine—this story is part of our special series of feature articles. View the full issue at wiu.edu/alumni/Western_News.php.
MACOMB/MOLINE, IL - - Ï㽶ÊÓƵ's 13th president has deep roots in higher education and in Ï㽶ÊÓƵ itself. From an early age, President Kristi Mindrup MS `00 embraced education as a core value in life, leading her on a journey that began with a childhood visit to Ï㽶ÊÓƵ and evolved into a lifelong passion for academia and student success.
Growing up, education was never a question; it was a given. Inspired by her grandparents and an aunt who is a Ï㽶ÊÓƵ alum, Mindrup charted her path to education early. Her grandfather, a firm believer in the power of learning, often shared with her, "There is nothing better than a college campus." That belief became a guiding principle.
Her first visit to Ï㽶ÊÓƵ was particularly memorable. At the age of 12, she accompanied her grandfather to a mayor's luncheon in Macomb, where she had the opportunity to meet then-Ï㽶ÊÓƵ President Ralph Waggoner. The experience left a lasting impression, solidifying her early connection to the University and planting the seed for her future in higher education.
Although that early encounter sparked Mindrup's interest in higher education, her academic journey initially took her elsewhere.
Mindrup ultimately chose to attend another university and felt instantly at home on a college campus. She thrived in the university culture, embracing both academic and social experiences. Planning course schedules, helping to guide her peers through academic decisions and fostering strong connections with faculty all came naturally to her. Even then, she recognized the power of the university experience in shaping lives, a perspective she carries with her into her presidency today.
After completing her undergraduate degree, she pursued a second bachelor's degree in secondary education. However, she encountered an unexpected challenge when she graduated; a teacher surplus made finding a job difficult. While working various part-time jobs, she came across an advertisement for a clerk position at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ's Quad Cities campus. She applied, took the civil service test and officially became part of the Ï㽶ÊÓƵ family on Sept. 15, 1997.
Her first role at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ included answering phones, moving AV carts between classrooms and securing the building at night. It was the perfect introduction to the Ï㽶ÊÓƵ community.
"That position taught me so much about interacting with students on the front line, assisting faculty and understanding the day-to-day operations of a university," Mindrup recalled.
Over the next 27 years, Mindrup rose through the ranks at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ, taking increasingly complex leadership roles. A faculty mentor encouraged Mindrup to pursue a master's degree in instructional design at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ, which broadened her understanding of learning processes and user experiences. This academic journey led to her decision to earn a Ph.D., significantly expanding her perspective on higher education and leadership. Her journey included serving as assistant to the director of the Quad Cities Center, director of Instructional and Administrative Services and multiple leadership roles overseeing academic affairs, planning and operations. In 2020, she was named the interim administrator in charge of the Quad Cities campus.
A defining moment in her career came with the development of Western's Quad Cities Riverfront Campus, which was completed in 2014.
"How often do you get to build a campus from the ground up," Mindrup reflected.
Working alongside faculty, staff and students to design everything from building layouts to furniture selections, she saw firsthand the power of collaboration and the impact of inclusive decision-making. Her experience working between the Macomb and Quad Cities campuses gave her a comprehensive understanding of the University's needs and potential.
In 2022, Mindrup was named vice president of the Quad Cities campus, a role that introduced her to new challenges, including legislative advocacy, city partnerships and external relations. Her leadership helped reshape the perception of the Quad Cities campus as a hub for innovation, opportunity and regional impact.
In early Spring 2024, a Ï㽶ÊÓƵ trustee asked her a pivotal question: "Have you ever thought about being president?"
Though she had considered it in the abstract, she never expected to be asked to pursue it. Just a few months later, she stepped into the role as interim president and, on Dec. 6, 2024, the Ï㽶ÊÓƵ Board of Trustees named Mindrup the 13th president.
Reflecting on the moment, Mindrup laughed, "This wasn't on my bingo card—but the opportunity to lead a University I have grown with and deeply care about was an opportunity to serve during an important moment of change for Ï㽶ÊÓƵ and higher education."
For Mindrup, leadership is rooted in empathy, collaboration and respect for every voice of Ï㽶ÊÓƵ. She has consistently emphasized the importance of building a thriving, inclusive environment where all members of the campus community feel valued and empowered to contribute.
Mindrup's vision calls on the Ï㽶ÊÓƵ community to move forward together, with positivity
and purpose.
"We must promote a campus culture that embraces kindness, collegiality, and authenticity," Mindrup said during her first remarks as interim president. "When we center ourselves around shared purpose and genuine care for one another, we create a space where people can thrive–both personally
and professionally."
Walking through the second floor hallway of Sherman Hall, lined with portraits of past presidents, Mindrup acknowledged the significance of her role as the University's first woman leader. She is also the first Ï㽶ÊÓƵ alumna to hold the presidency, a milestone that underscores her deep and personal connection to Western.
"Seeing 12 pictures of men and then realizing I would be the next face up there—it hit me," she said. "It's about opening doors and showing what's possible."
Mindrup understands the importance of representation and the impact her presidency can have on students, faculty and aspiring professionals.
Mindrup's vision for Ï㽶ÊÓƵ focuses on innovation, accessibility and student success. She aims to align the University's academic programs with regional workforce needs while emphasizing social mobility and student support. She is committed to financial stabilization, expanding interdisciplinary programs and strengthening Western's role as a regional leader in education, healthcare, STEM and workforce development.
As a regional public university, Ï㽶ÊÓƵ plays a crucial role in rural community growth and economic development. She envisions Western continuing to build strong partnerships with businesses, legislators and industry leaders to create new opportunities for students and the broader community.
"Ï㽶ÊÓƵ's greatest strengths lie in its people, the dedicated faculty, staff and students who work hard to create a supportive and welcoming environment," Mindrup said. "Once students are here, they feel at home."
She also noted Ï㽶ÊÓƵ's culture of resilience, tradition of excellence and commitment to accessibility as key factors in its success.
"The Leatherneck spirit, our toughness and pride, powers us through challenges and helps us build a bright future," Mindrup said.
Mindrup is excited to strengthen alumni involvement, and she recognizes the vital role they play in Ï㽶ÊÓƵ's success. From mentorship and internships to philanthropy and advocacy, she sees alumni as crucial partners in shaping Ï㽶ÊÓƵ's future. She previously worked with Alumni Council President Eldon Brown `96 to explore ways to better connect alumni expertise with University initiatives. That work will continue with incoming president Molly Holmes `01 MS`04.
That deep sense of connection and pride among alumni is something Mindrup both values and inspires. For many alumni, her presidential appointment not only demonstrates strong leadership, but also a return to Ï㽶ÊÓƵ's roots.
"I couldn't be more thrilled to have one of our own leading Ï㽶ÊÓƵ into its next chapter," Alumnus Steven McCann `78 said. "I've known President Mindrup for many years and I know she is going to do great things in this role. Having a president who understands our history, our values and our potential is crucial right now. I can't wait to see what's ahead for Ï㽶ÊÓƵ."
"Our alumni remember the strength of Ï㽶ÊÓƵ when they were here, and they want to help us create an even stronger future," Mindrup said.
Her impact on students is already being felt across campus.
Makena Martin, a 2025 Psychology graduate and outgoing president of the Student Government Association (SGA), echoed that sentiment. "Dr. Mindrup has been such a welcoming and supportive presence throughout my time in SGA. She always has an open ear and truly listens when I bring forward student concerns. What makes her stand out is that she doesn't just listen, she acts. I've seen firsthand how committed she is to making real change for students, and working with her has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience."
James Bierman, a senior Agriculture major and newly elected Board of Trustees student trustee, also praised Mindrup's leadership.
"Dr. Mindrup has stepped into one of the toughest and most high-pressure roles on our campus, and she's handled it with incredible resilience and unwavering grace. Every challenge that's come her way, she's faced head on with a smile. Every decision I've seen her make has been focused on improving Western and enriching the student experience. She's not only an outstanding leader and president, but also the kind of Leatherneck alumna we're proud to have representing us."
As Mindrup prepares for her inauguration, she shares a message with Ï㽶ÊÓƵ's students, faculty and staff: "The future is bright. Ï㽶ÊÓƵ has always risen to meet challenges with strength, and we will continue to do so while creating new opportunities for our students and community."
And if she could give advice to her younger self, sitting in a Ï㽶ÊÓƵ classroom years ago?
"Leap, and the net will appear."
For the 13th president of Ï㽶ÊÓƵ, that belief has come full circle.
Posted By: Alisha Looney (AA-Looney@wiu.edu)
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