MONMOUTH, Ore. — After a national search, Western Oregon University announces Malissa Larson as the next Vice President for Student Affairs, following the retirement of Vice President for Student Affairs Tina Fuchs, who served in this role for four years and served a distinguished 35-year career at Western.
Larson, a Western alumna, holds a Bachelor of Science in American Sign Language/English Interpretation and a Master of Education in Rehabilitation Counseling. She has worked at Western for the past 18 years, serving in a range of leadership roles, including Director of the Office of Disability Services, Assistant Vice President, Dean of Students, and Associate Vice President. Her broad experience and deep institutional knowledge will help guide the university’s student success efforts in her new position.
In addition, Larson has contributed to the university community through numerous service and leadership roles, including staff representative on the Board of Trustees; co-chair of the CARE team; member of the Bias Response Team; member of the Strategic Plan Development Team; and member of the University Council.
“I am excited to have her join the senior leadership team, especially as we begin important university projects next year and look forward to her partnership and vision,” said President Jesse Peters.
“As a double alum and someone who has spent over 18 years serving WOU, being named the VPSA is incredibly meaningful to me,” shares Larson. “I care deeply about supporting and celebrating students while also helping navigate the opportunities and challenges facing our university 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.