Nevis Native Earns Doctorate from Western Illinois University

Western Illinois University (WIU) celebrated a milestone in its 125-year history during its May 2025 Commencement ceremony, awarding doctoral degrees to twelve Caribbean nationals, a first for the institution. This achievement highlights WIU’s growing international presence and its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment. Among the graduates was Tameka Stanley-Pierre of Nevis, who earned her doctorate in education, focusing her research on the correlation between reading motivation, educational achievement, and socio-economic status. Stanley-Pierre’s accomplishment underscores the university’s dedication to producing scholars whose research addresses critical societal issues. The ceremony also recognized fifty Caribbean students graduating across various disciplines, demonstrating WIU’s appeal as a destination for international students seeking quality education in the United States.

The conferral of twelve doctoral degrees upon Caribbean nationals represents a significant achievement not only for the graduates but also for WIU. This accomplishment signifies the university’s success in attracting and nurturing international talent, enriching the academic discourse and contributing to a global perspective within the institution. WIU President, Dr. Kristi Mindrup, expressed immense pride in the graduating class, emphasizing the university’s anticipation of their future contributions and positive impact on a global scale. The emphasis on the quality of scholarship and the relevance of the research undertaken by the graduates, as noted by a faculty member who served on dissertation committees, further highlights the caliber of the doctoral program.

Tameka Stanley-Pierre’s academic journey exemplifies the dedication and perseverance of the Caribbean students at WIU. Having previously earned a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master of Education in Reading from Midwestern State University (MSU) Texas, Stanley-Pierre’s pursuit of a doctoral degree at WIU demonstrates her commitment to advancing her knowledge and expertise in the field of education. Her research, focusing on the interplay between reading motivation, academic success, and socio-economic factors, addresses a crucial issue within education, particularly its impact on student performance and equity. Currently employed as a reading specialist by Wichita Falls ISD, Stanley-Pierre is well-positioned to apply her research findings to improve reading outcomes for students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

The quality of the doctoral program at WIU is further underscored by Dr. Tracy Davis, program coordinator and professor for the organizational leadership track of the EdD program. Dr. Davis asserts that the program’s rigor and emphasis on social justice cultivate graduates who are well-equipped to be agents of change. This focus on social justice aligns with WIU’s broader mission to promote ethical leadership and responsible global citizenship. The intensity of the program, combined with its focus on relevant societal issues, prepares graduates to address complex challenges and contribute meaningfully to their respective fields. Dr. Davis’s confidence in the program’s quality, comparing it favorably to elite universities, reflects the high standards and expectations upheld by WIU.

WIU’s commitment to international education is evident in its diverse student body, with over 650 international students from more than 50 countries enrolled during the spring semester. Among this diverse population, over 100 students hail from the Caribbean, representing a significant portion of the university’s international student community. This vibrant mix of cultures and perspectives enriches the learning environment, fostering cross-cultural understanding and preparing students for a globalized world. Dr. Randy Glean, Associate Vice President for Global Studies, expressed pride in the commitment demonstrated by the Caribbean students, particularly those enrolled in online programs, which require significant discipline and dedication to balance academic pursuits with professional and personal obligations.

The success of the Caribbean graduates, including Dr. Tameka Stanley-Pierre, highlights the strength and impact of WIU’s academic programs. The university’s commitment to providing a high-quality education, coupled with its focus on social justice and global perspectives, prepares graduates to become leaders and change-makers in their chosen fields. The achievement of awarding twelve doctoral degrees to Caribbean nationals in a single commencement ceremony marks a historic moment for WIU, underscoring the university’s growing international presence and its dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. The stories of these graduates serve as an inspiration and a testament to the power of education to transform lives and communities.