Evan Stegall

Several weeks ago, many of us listened proudly as Macomb Junior High student Evan Stegall read his prize-winning essay "What I Like About My Hometown."  In it, Evan highlighted the partnership between the community and the university that makes Macomb what he called an "oasis," a place where a strong education is available and valued, a wide variety of cultural experiences are plentiful, and individual potential is nurtured.

The Pope didn't choose to visit my hometown on his recent visit to the United States nor was it a prospective site for the 2018 Olympic games.  It's not a place to find high-end shopping malls and you won't find many popular chain stores either.   What you will find in Macomb, Illinois is a community of people, teachers, farmers, business owners, and public servants who foster core values in living and tirelessly dedicate themselves to improving the quality of life.