MONMOUTH, Ore. –The Western Oregon University Foundation released its annual report for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. The report includes total contributions to the Foundation for 2023-2024, and recent budgetary year results on Endowment, Scholarships, and Competitive Grants.

Contributions totaled $5,137,525 for the fiscal year–one of the strongest fundraising years in the Foundation’s history– and include all new outright or committed private gifts and grants made to the WOU Foundation. The Foundation received gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations, and contributions increased almost 78 percent in the 2024 fiscal year from the prior year.

Scholarships and student aid awards surpassed $1 million for the fifth year, with the WOU Foundation investing $1,259,233 back to students with emergency or financial needs, academic merit, athletics participation, and more.

Katie Wojke, vice president of advancement and executive director of the Western Oregon University Foundation shares that growth in areas that positively impact students is made possible due to each and every generous contribution. “Private philanthropy and volunteer service are critical to supporting students during their higher education journey. Thank you to each and every donor and volunteer who is making an impact and lifting up Western and its students.”

The Foundation and University have also seen an increase in the number of volunteers who are giving back to Western in creative ways.

“It has been 37 years since I graduated, and the more time that passes the more I value the education and experience I received. I volunteer at WOU out of a sincere desire to give back to an institution that has given me so much,” says Doug Ladd ‘88, chair of the WOU Alumni Board.

View the 2023-2024 Annual Report.

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About The 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.