Starting college is one of life’s biggest adventures — a time filled with new opportunities, new friends, and new places to explore. Here in Monmouth, Illinois, we are so excited to welcome you and can’t wait to be part of your journey. Every August, the beloved Walk Out tradition brings Monmouth College’s incoming students through our charming downtown, giving you a first glimpse of the community you’ll call home for the next four years.

On Sunday, August 18, we joined the fun right outside Tiffany Cole’s Country Financial office, cheering for each and every one of you as you made your way down Main Street. We handed out special Welcome Bags — complete with a mini Alani energy drink for a boost of energy, a candy bar for a sweet treat, and a handwritten note to let you know just how excited we are to have you here. It’s a small gesture, but it comes from the heart, because making you feel at home from day one matters to us.

Tiffany, who owns both Tiffany Cole’s Country Financial and Meks on Main, is not only a local business owner — she’s also a proud Monmouth College alumna. She knows firsthand how meaningful these next four years will be and how special it is to be part of this welcoming community. That’s why both of her businesses share the same goal: to support and celebrate the people who make Monmouth special, from lifelong residents to brand-new Scots.

Meks on Main is not only a beautiful event space, but also a place where the Monmouth College community can gather — whether it’s for student organization events, club banquets, sorority or fraternity formals, or milestone celebrations. As you settle into campus life, know that we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way.

To the Class of 2029, we encourage you to explore the shops and restaurants that give downtown Monmouth its charm, attend local events, and take in the small-town warmth that makes this community so unique. We hope you’ll feel the same pride in Monmouth that we do — and that you’ll make memories here that will last far beyond your college years.

Welcome to Monmouth, Monmouth College Class of 2029. We’re so glad you’re here, and we can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’ll accomplish!