Patrick Hanlon ’02

Patrick Hanlon ’02 died Dec. 29, 2021 in Chicago. He was 41. Patrick majored in business administration and was a member of Sigma Chi, as well as Illinois Wesleyan’s baseball and football teams. Patrick was a performer, whether it be on athletic fields or courts, playing musical instruments, singing, acting, dancing, songwriting or cracking jokes; he was truly at his best when entertaining others. His musical talents were on full display as the lead singer and songwriter for the band Patrick ’n Swayze, a popular band in college towns throughout Central Illinois. Patrick was able to connect with people from all walks of life, either on stage or through his career in sales. Patrick was always his happiest while surrounded by those he loved and who loved him back. He is survived by his parents, two brothers, including Sean Hanlon ’00, two sons, his former wife, two nieces and a nephew. See his full obituary here.

Michael Retter ’02

Michael L. P. Retter’s “Field Guide to the Birds of Illinois” is entering its second printing. He is Editor of “North American Birds” and Special Issues Editor of “Birding”–both magazines published by the American Birding Association. He currently lives in Fort Worth, Texas, with his husband, Matt Hale, an Associate Professor of Biology at Texas Christian University.

TAG Day 2021

Monday, February 8 is Thank-A-Giver Day at Illinois Wesleyan and we’re eager to celebrate generous Titans!

Thank-A-Giver (TAG) Day is the symbolic point during the academic year — about 70% of the way through — when tuition dollars are exhausted and Illinois Wesleyan relies on donor generosity to continue providing a world-class education and rewarding collegiate experiences.

Each and every year, every gift matters. Contributions benefit students and faculty, enhance academic excellence, and strengthen the IWU community.

Thank you to all who give back to move IWU forward.