Mark named assistant athletic director

 MACOMB, IL – Western Illinois University Alumnus Mark Scherer has been named the assistant athletic director for development within Western Illinois University's Foundation and Development Office, effective Jan. 24.

Scherer had previously served as an agent trainee and sales associate for State Farm since October 2021. Before joining State Farm, he was the head men's basketball coach and athletic fundraiser at Millikin University from May 2017-May 2021. Scherer has also served as the director of development at Illinois State University, director of development/interim athletic director at Eureka College and as the head men's basketball coach/assistant athletic director at Elmhurst College. He has also served in athletics roles at Valparaiso University and WIU.

"Mark's knowledge of athletics and fundraising, and his previous experience working within athletics at Western, will ensure forward momentum for Intercollegiate Athletics," said Paul Bubb, executive director of development. "We're excited for Mark to join our Foundation and Development team, and get to work building a successful future for Leatherneck Athletics."

Scherer is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. He received his master's degree in sport management from WIU and his bachelor's degree from Illinois State University. He also holds a bachelor's degree from Eureka College.

"I am tremendously excited to return to Western. My student experience at WIU and my time as a member of the Macomb community have been instrumental to my career," Scherer said. "I am looking forward to connecting with alumni and other Leatherneck enthusiasts who are as passionate as I am about WIU."

The assistant athletic director for development provides overall leadership for WIU Intercollegiate Athletics fundraising program, with the primary emphasis on securing major gifts for the department.