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Alumnus Rayvón Carter.
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125 Anniversary Celebration: Rayvón Carter

February 21, 2025

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Editor's Note: This is a series of stories about Western 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 - - For alumnus Rayvón Carter, Western Illinois University is a place that inspires its members to become their best selves promoting growth and preparing them to overcome challenges.

"When I think about WIU, I think of a place where lifelong friendships were formed and I was challenged to grow beyond my limits. It's a community that sparked my creativity, encouraged me to dream big and helped shape the person I am today," Carter said.

For Carter, being a Leatherneck means accepting challenges with a positive mindset. It's a matter of striving to be better without fearing adversity.

"Being a Leatherneck means embodying strength, resilience and a relentless drive to push forward, no matter the challenge," Carter said. "It's about standing tall in the face of adversity, supporting your community and always striving to be the best version of yourself."

Reflecting on his time at WIU, Carter's favorite Leatherneck memory was the opportunity to create a safer and more inclusive environment through his positions as president of the Black Student Association (BSA) and vice president of the Student Government Association (SGA).

"I have so many fond memories of my time at WIU, but one that stands out the most is being elected President of the Black Student Association. It was a powerful opportunity to serve and lead my peers while advocating for a more inclusive and equitable campus. It was not just about leadership—it was about amplifying voices and pushing for change. What makes this memory even more meaningful is that around the same time, I was also elected Vice-President of the Student Government Association, giving me the chance to make an impact across the entire student body," Carter said.

Carter fondly remembers the guidance and mentoring he received from the WIU faculty and staff. He credits this incredible support system for his current professional and personal success.

"I'm currently working as a Senior Creative at Apple within the Worldwide Marketing & Communications division in California. Looking back, I can trace much of my success to the incredible guidance and mentorship I received at WIU. I was fortunate to collaborate with faculty, staff and fellow students who believed in my potential and pushed me to challenge my creative limits. They helped me refine my skills, broaden my perspective and prepare for the fast-paced, innovative world I now thrive in," Carter said.

As a student, Carter was actively engaged on campus, collaborating with different areas of interest to become an impactful leader.

"I worked to amplify student voices and create a more inclusive campus environment. I was deeply committed to leadership within my fraternity, serving as vice president of the Eta Eta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. I co-chaired the Black Student Summit, worked as a writing consultant at the University Writing Center and participated in the Council on Student Activity Funds. I also had the privilege of being part of the Heritage Ensemble and United Voices of Western Inspirational Singers (UVOWIS), where I connected with others through music and culture," Carter said.

Carter advises prospective students attending WIU to embark on their journey of self-discovery and begin taking advantage of the opportunities the campus has to offer.

"WIU is a place where your present and future self can merge, shaping your journey in ways you can't always predict. It's a place where you can challenge yourself, discover new passions and make a difference not just in your own life, but in the lives of those around you. The campus offers so much, but ultimately, it's up to you to seize those opportunities and make the most of your time there," Carter said.

As we honor 125 years of educational excellence, we invite local WIU students, alumni and community members to share their stories and be featured in our series. Contact University Communications at U-Communications@wiu.edu to participate.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing