Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University has named Adeya Powell, Ph.D., the new Institutional Research Director, effective August 30, 2024.

Powell holds a doctorate in Research, Evaluation, Measurement, and Statistics from the University of Georgia and is a Southern Regional Educational Scholar. With training and experience in survey and instrument development, program evaluation, and statistical analysis, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her position. 

Powell has over five years of experience in higher education. Three of those years were spent as Assistant Director of Institutional Research at the University of Portland, where she was commended for her assessment of equity gaps and her design and creation of a UP-centered campus climate survey. 

Her dream to lead an IR office at a school whose mission and strategic plan aligned with hers led her to Western. In her new role, she intends to facilitate the university’s transformation into a data-driven decision-making community that supports student success, using a combination of her skills and training, which include statistics, evaluation, research, and survey development.

“Powell brings a wealth of experience to this role, with a proven track record in data-driven decision-making and a deep understanding of our university’s mission,” says Provost Jose Coll. “Her leadership in institutional research is exactly what is needed to drive Western forward.” Coll also thanks Michael Baltzley, Ph.D., for his leadership in serving as the Director of Institutional Research. He appreciates the expertise and commitment Baltzley brought to this role for the past several years.”

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where You Belong.