Photo: Hannah Rispler (left) and Randi Lydum (right)

Photography: Eddie Bruning

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University hosted the 38th Annual Wolves Athletic Auction presented by Oregon State Credit Union on Saturday, June 1, 2024. The event drew nearly 300 attendees to the campus of Western Oregon University, and dozens more to the online auction held the week prior. Thanks to generous donors, sponsors, bidders, and attendees, Wolves Athletics raised $156,106 across all aspects of the event.

All proceeds from the event support student-athlete scholarships, team equipment, and team travel for Western’s over 440 student-athletes across 14 NCAA Division II sports and cheer. “We are so thankful for the continued support of our donors and pleased to add more people to our pack”, said Randi Lydum, executive director of Intercollegiate Athletics. “A special thank you to our keynote speaker, Samantha Moore, and our emcee for the evening, Hannah Rispler, both WOU athletics alums.” Keynote speaker Samantha “Sam” Moore thanked guests and donors “for continuing to believe in and commit to the transformative power of athletic opportunity at Western Oregon University.” 

The Wolves Athletic Auction was presented by Oregon State Credit Union, back for its 19th year as presenting sponsor. “19 years down and our long-standing relationship still finds ways to grow stronger,” said Jordan Carpenter, branch manager. “We are so proud of this partnership with the university and feel honored to be able to assist these student-athletes as they further their education. We look forward to another 19 years serving WOU and the Monmouth-Independence community.”

Additional auction sponsors include Ferguson Wellman, Arena Sports Bar and Grill, Rookies Sports Tap, Eola Hills, Cornerstone Valley, Miller Nash, Andersen Construction, Petals & Vines, Turner Construction, the Corvallis Clinic, Compass Visual, Parallel 45 Brewing, Walnut Family Dental, Tim’s Automotive, and Vines, Tours, and Cruises. 

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About Western Oregon University Foundation

The Western Oregon University Foundation was founded in 1965 and is the fundraising arm of Western Oregon University. A nonprofit corporation, governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees with IRS 501(c)3 status, the WOU Foundation’s scholarship program includes more than 250 donor-funded scholarships. In addition, the foundation manages nearly 300 funds for academic and student programs. As of 2021, the WOU Foundation has approximately $25 million in assets and a permanent endowment of $16 million.