Written by Maureen Brakke
MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University celebrated the 50th anniversary of three members of the class of 1975 at commencement, who were honored as this year’s Golden Wolves. These alumni led the academic procession at this year’s 2025 commencement, a tradition that symbolizes the university’s deep pride in its alumni.
This year’s Golden Wolves were Sheila Daniels, Carol Bartholomew Miller, and Sharon Baugh.
Sheila Daniels, ‘75, majored in elementary education and earned her master’s in special education. She dedicated 40 years to teaching second and third graders in the Canby School District. During her time at Western, she was actively involved in student government. “I loved my time here, loved Monmouth, being in the resident halls, and being a student,” she shares.
Carol Bartholomew Miller ‘75, ‘77, who resided in the same residence hall as Daniels during their freshman year, majored in elementary education and received a master’s degree in deaf education. For 37 years, she taught deaf and hard-of-hearing students, spending five years in Portland before moving to Ames, Iowa, where she resides. She worked as a resident assistant at Western for two years and was a band member, where she played the clarinet. “I loved my time at Western and loved working during the Jack Martin, Dean of Students era, where I learned so much from him,” shares Bartholomew Miller.
Sharon Baugh ‘75, ‘86 majored in physical education and taught for six years before earning her master’s in counseling. Her career evolved to include 11 years as a school counselor and 16 years as a middle school principal. Before retiring, Baugh returned to counseling for seven more years. In her retirement, she has become a certified golf instructor. A transfer student from Lane Community College, she was actively involved in Western’s intramural field hockey, basketball, and softball. Her favorite memory is when the 1975 softball team went to nationals, crediting some great instructors who saw her, changed her life, and believed in her.
These Golden Wolves not only honor their achievements but also inspire current and future generations of Western students, embodying the spirit and legacy of the university.
###
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.
