Written by Maureen Brakke
MONMOUTH, Ore. — Western Oregon University and Xicha Brewing, the Pacific Northwest’s only Latiné brewery located in West Salem, Oregon, collaborated on a Western Oregon University-specific beer called Mi Familia, representing the familial and close-knit community that the university prides itself on and celebrating the Latiné community.
The Mi Familia Pilsner is a special brew created exclusively for WOU Athletics. This refreshing pilsner features Amarillo hops from Coleman Agriculture’s Alluvial Hop Farm in Independence—just ten miles from campus—combined with malt from Prairie Malt, ensuring a local touch in every sip.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Western Oregon University, which is poised to be the first four-year public institution with Hispanic Serving Institution designation in Oregon, to establish a scholarship supporting Latiné student-athletes,” said Ricardo Antunez, co-founder of Xicha Brewing. “This collaboration allows us to offer resources essential for their success.”
A percentage of the proceeds from the sale of the beer will be donated towards supporting scholarships for Latiné student-athletes. Obtaining the Hispanic Serving Institution status will provide Western with additional grant funding opportunities to support Latiné student college success.
“We are excited to partner with Xicha Brewing to raise scholarship funds in support of our Latiné student-athletes,” said Vice President of Advancement & Executive Director of the WOU Foundation, Katie Wojke. “This collaboration will help provide more resources and support necessary for our students’ success on and off the field. Together, we’re opening doors and creating a brighter future for the next generations of leaders.”
This Mi Familia Pilsner will be unveiled at Western’s homecoming football game (starts at 1:05 p.m.) on October 26 in the beer garden from noon onward and will also be on tap at Rookie’s Sports Tap in Monmouth. Homecoming events, including the football game, are open to the public. Get your homecoming football tickets today.
###
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.
