MONMOUTH, ILLINOIS (April 23, 2025) — From a quiet first-year student to a seasoned campus leader with a 3.95 GPA, William Plumley has made the most of every opportunity at Monmouth College. A double major in history and political science, with minors in two additional fields, Plumley has consistently embraced challenges across academics, leadership, athletics, and the arts, all while maintaining a balanced and purposeful approach.
Plumley credits his academic success to consistent routines and intentional time management.
"When you sit down to work, always make sure you stay doing something, even if you get bored," said Plumley, who came to Monmouth from Geneseo, Illinois. "Getting a little of everything done daily adds up quickly. Set regular time to work and stop when the time's up, not when you finish one thing. If you consistently provide your best effort from the start, that application gets easier over time."
This focused mindset has helped Plumley thrive in a demanding academic schedule while also staying deeply engaged outside the classroom.
Finding his path in public service
Originally a history education major, Plumley's interests evolved as he explored new academic fields. His diverse coursework and co-curricular experiences gradually shaped his aspiration to work in public service.
"I want to combine my passion for politics and history with something that hopefully lets me travel the world," he said.
"Public service offers so many avenues, and I'm especially interested in the State Department or working for an international organization."
Plumley is particularly passionate about the psychology behind politics, especially with regard to social issues such as free speech and partisanship. He hopes to pursue a career that allows him to address those topics on a broader scale.
His leadership journey
Leadership came gradually but powerfully for Plumley. From music ensembles to athletics to honor societies and Greek life, he embraced every role with equal passion. His time as chapter president of Sigma Phi Epsilon stands out as a defining experience.
"Every different avenue requires a different attitude, but an identical passion," he said. "Becoming president of SigEp was definitely the pinnacle of that progress. It gave me the most experience and knowledge."
One of the most challenging decisions he faced was navigating the chapter's housing project, a complex effort that involved multiple stakeholders, including alumni, undergraduates, and college administration.
"It was a valuable learning experience," said Plumley, who earlier this month received the Greek Man of the Year honor.
"It gave me perspective on how to prioritize the needs of the group in a situation that required many opinions."
Plumley's involvement in cross-country, track, and music ensembles has not only rounded out his college experience, but kept him grounded.
"Having so many things to do and enjoy ensures that even on a bad day, at least one thing makes me happy," said Plumley, who earned All-Midwest Conference honors last fall while competing for the Fighting Scots cross country squad. "The athletic and music parts of the day are the most important for me - they let me truly let loose from all the burdens of academic and leadership work."
He'd do it all again
Looking back, Plumley hopes his impact is felt not only within SigEp, but the wider Monmouth community, as well.
"I want to serve as an example that even if you don't imagine it, any one person can have an immeasurable impact on an organization or institution," he said. "I'd want to encourage others to fully commit themselves to making their campus better, in whatever way seems right for them."
For incoming students hoping to lead a balanced life, Plumley's advice is simple: "Don't be afraid to stretch out and do things you've never tried, but always remember to keep time for yourself. The only one who can decide how committed you are — and who deserves your time — is you."
When asked if there's a single moment he'd like to relive, Plumley responded with a smile: "I'd relive it all, because why not? I enjoyed everything. I'm grateful for how much I got to do, and that's enough."
As he looks ahead to a future in public service, William Plumley leaves Monmouth College with a strong sense of purpose, a lifetime of memories, and a legacy of dedication and leadership.
