Monmouth, Ore. —Western Oregon University has announced the hiring of Ben Barlow as its new Director of Alumni and Parent Engagement, effective May 1, 2026.
Barlow is a Western alumnus and earned an undergraduate degree in interdisciplinary studies and a graduate degree in organizational leadership. Most recently, he served in a student leadership development coordinator role at Western, overseeing leadership programming, advising student government, and assessing program effectiveness through measurable outcomes.
Barlow is also the coach of Western’s men’s club rugby team. For the past ten years, he has been actively involved in planning and supporting the annual Men’s and Women’s Rugby Alumni Event, partnering with former players and supporters to organize programming, manage logistics, and build lasting connections with the university.
“Ben brings a rare mix of relationship-first leadership and practical operations. He engages people and communicates with clarity and professionalism, and can build trust through transparency and follow-through,” said Vice President of Advancement and Executive Director of the WOU Foundation Katie Wojke. “Ben is the kind of leader who can grow meaningful alumni and parent engagement at Western Oregon University.”
“I see this position as an opportunity to build lasting relationships that connect alumni and families to the ongoing story of Western Oregon University,” shares Barlow. “I’m especially excited to create meaningful engagement that fosters connection, pride and long-term support.”
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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.