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Alumnus Karl Germany Jr.
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125 Anniversary Celebration: Karl Germany Jr

May 2, 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 Karl Germany Jr., Western Illinois University is a welcoming place—one with a community that makes you feel at home.

"When I think about WIU, I think about home," Germany said. "We've grown together, made bonds and built something that feels like family."

Germany describes Leathernecks as individuals who embody the tradition of toughness and pride.

"Being a Leatherneck means you have a sense of toughness and pride," Germany said. "No matter what, the ‘it's a great day to be a Leatherneck' quote still stands strong today."

Among his Leatherneck memories, Germany's favorites are becoming the 2017 Homecoming king and attending the cultural events organized by the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center.

In his professional career, Germany leans on the education and guidance he received from the Law Enforcement and Justice Administration (LEJA) programs at WIU.

"I obtained both my bachelor's and master's degrees from LEJA programs and because of the department's curriculum and the professors, I was well prepared for a successful career in federal, state and local law enforcement agencies," Germany said.

During his time as a student, Germany was actively involved on campus. He worked as a resident assistant, was an e-board member of the Black Student Association (BSA) and the Lambda Alpha Epsilon Law Enforcement Fraternity. Germany was also a graduate assistant for the LEJA department and a police officer at the Office of Public Safety (OPS).

For those considering furthering their education, Germany strongly recommends WIU as a place where meaningful connections and relationships are built.

"WIU has a great reputation for building lifelong relationships both in academic and personal settings," Germany said. "If you are looking for a place to connect with faculty and with friends, this is the university for you."

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

To learn more about the WIU LEJA programs, visit wiu.edu/leja/.

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