Dr. Miriam Satern Conference Room Dedication Set for Sept. 10 At Western Illinois University
During her tenure at Western Illinois University, Miriam Satern focused her efforts on continuous curricular advancements and facility improvements for the betterment of students, faculty and the WIU Kinesiology Department. Her recent gift to Western is evidence of her ongoing support to ensure those efforts continue.
In memory of Satern’s parents, Richard and Vera Satern, the refurbished Brophy Hall conference room dedication will take place at 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 10 in Brophy Hall.
During Satern’s 21 years at Western, she oversaw the change of the department name from physical education to kinesiology. She also assisted in the creation of three separate Bachelor of Science degrees: Athletic Training, Exercise Science and Physical Education. In addition, the graduate program was divided into two specific Master of Science degrees: Kinesiology and Sport Management. She served as the chair of the Department of Kinesiology from 2004–2009.
“It is hard to put into words the appreciation we have for this generous donation,” said Renee Polubinsky, professor and chair of the Kinesiology department. “Because of the many difficult times at the University, and more recently throughout the Covid pandemic, Miriam wanted to give something that would positively affect faculty, staff and student morale. This beautiful conference room space will do exactly that and we will enjoy it for years to come.”
In addition to the dedication of the remodeled conference room, the contributions of WIU Professor Emeritus Cheryl Cohen will also be recognized with the Cohen Kitchenette, named in honor of Cohen, who retired in 2006 after 28 years of teaching in the Department of Kinesiology.
Space is limited. To attend, please RSVP by Wednesday, Sept. 1 by calling (309) 298-1861 or emailing wiufoundation@wiu.edu.
For more information on Western’s Kinesiology department, visit wiu.edu/kinesiology.
