Written by Maureen Brakke
MONMOUTH, Ore. – On Thursday, May 15, over 80 students, staff, faculty, and alumni from Western Oregon University participated in the university’s first Advocacy Day at the State Capitol.
The day featured the Western Oregon Voices Choir, directed by Claire Hudkins, Ph.D., performing Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon and Garfunkel at the opening ceremonies of the Oregon House of Representatives. The choir, consisting of 12 singers and a three-member rhythm section, set an uplifting tone for the day’s advocacy efforts. Throughout the day, Western representatives met with over 50 legislative offices in a bipartisan and bicameral manner, discussing key priorities outlined by the Oregon Council of Presidents. These priorities include ensuring no less than $1.1 billion in the Public University Support Fund, allocating $450 million for the Oregon Opportunity Grant, funding for Strong Start Programming, and protecting funding for Basic Needs Navigators.
“Investing in public higher education is crucial for the future of our students and our communities,” said President Jesse Peters. “It was truly inspiring to see so many dedicated WOU staff, faculty, students, and alumni come together to advocate for our university and higher education as a whole. Their commitment to ensuring access and support for all students demonstrates the collective belief that education is not just a personal benefit, but a vital investment in the future of Oregon.”
Decades of underinvestment in public higher education have shifted the financial burden onto students and families. Three decades ago, the state funded more than 60 percent of public university operating costs; today, that figure has dropped to less than 30 percent. As a result, Oregon public universities rank 44th in the nation for funding per student, while tuition rates remain the highest in the West. If this trend continues, fewer Oregon students will have access to essential education and skills needed for the state’s most in-demand jobs, making the $1.1 billion PUSF target critical. Public universities serve as economic engines for Oregon, generating over $10 billion in annual impact. They drive employment, support local businesses, and attract significant tourism to communities statewide. Locally, Western is one of the largest employers in Polk County, with a 2020 economic impact study by ECONorthwest showing a direct impact of $108 million in economic output for the region.
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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.
