Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Theresa Hickey, Ph.D., has been selected as the new dean of the College of Education at Western Oregon University, effective June 30, 2025. Previously, Hickey was the associate dean of the College of Social Sciences and...

Pictured LTR: Dawson Officer, Gianni Villanueva, and Director of WOU’s Veterans Resource Center Logan Doerfler  Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University has received a new scholarship from 4 Spirits Distillery and 4 Spirits Foundation....

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...

Pictured LTR: Carla Macedo, Guthrie Romas, and Aubrey Laine Baker MONMOUTH, Ore. – The English Department at Western Oregon University is proud to announce the 2025 Peter Sears Poetry Prize winners. This year marks a historic moment for the competition, with a...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore.  Western Oregon University announces its 2025 commencement on Saturday, June 14 at 10 a.m. on the MacArthur Field. Over 1,240 students are eligible to walk across the stage and graduate, completing a significant milestone in...

Pictured: Ken Carano Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Ken Carano, Ph.D., has been selected as the T.H. Gentle Professor of Education for the 2025-2026 academic year at Western Oregon University. A Division of Education and Leadership professor, Carano...

Pictured LTR: Alejandra Campoverdi and Raul Sagrero Gaona MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University hosted the 30th annual César E. Chávez Leadership Conference (CECLC) to full capacity for the first time since 2019 earlier this month. More than 950 participants came...

MONMOUTH, Ore. –The Western Oregon University Alumni Board is thrilled to announce the inaugural block party, set to take place on Saturday, May 17. This event is open to all alumni, students, faculty, staff, community members, and friends.  “We’re so excited to throw...

Pictured LTR: Cara Groshong, Pres. Peters, Mike LeMaster, Camila Gabaldon, Jamie Marroquin, Amy Dawson, and Provost Coll Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University proudly announces the 2025 Mario & Alma Pastega Awards recipients. This is...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces the undergraduate students named to the Honor Roll and President’s list for their academic honors for the winter 2025 term. In recognition of academic achievement, the university makes public at the close of each...

LTR: Hannah Rispler and Randi Lydum at the 2024 Athletic Auction Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University is pleased to announce that the 39th annual Wolves Athletic Auction presented by Oregon State Credit Union will be held Saturday, May...

Pictured: AES students presenting at the 2024 AES Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. The Western Oregon University Program for Undergraduate Research Experiences (PURE) is proud to announce that its 19th annual Academic Excellence Showcase will occur in person...

LTR: Laurie Roe, OSCU Senior VP Community and Government Relations; WOU President Jesse Peters, Jordan Carpenter, OSCU Monmouth Branch Manager; Katie Wojke, WOU VP of Advancement; Pansy Kemp, OSCU Events and Volunteer Program Manager; Ashley Wilson; Community...

Pictured LTR: Aubrey Baker and Isabel Lesher MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Write Place is proud to announce the first annual Loie Bunse Prize for Nature Writing winners, which recognizes exceptional student writing that reflects a deep engagement with...

Pictured LTR: Students Arlette Moreno Escamilla and Allison Lopez Martinez, Dr. Gina Garcia (2025 HSI Summit Keynote Speaker), and students Erika Aguilar Moreno, and Alex Gutierrez. MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is now the first public, four-year...

Pictured: WOU’s Men’s and Women+’s Rugby teams Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. Western Oregon University Campus Recreation has launched a new WOU Club Sport membership option called the Club Sport Player Pass. The pass is available to local...

Pictured: WOU dance majors Olivia Robbins and Christine Anders MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Darryl Thomas, professor of Dance, is the co-artistic director, alongside Valerie Bergman, of a local professional dance company called Rainbow Dance Theatre....

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Randi Storch, Ph.D., has been selected as the new Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Western Oregon University, effective June 30. Storch brings a wealth of experience in history education, collective bargaining, and faculty...

Pictured: Biology and Aquarium Science majors with Professor Gareth Hopkins MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University students majoring in Biology and Aquarium Science attended the Oregon Chapter of The Wildlife Society’s Annual Conference in Salem, accompanied by...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. — The Research Institute at Western Oregon University is pleased to announce the appointment of Kat Martinez, MPA, as the new Director for the Center on Workforce and Systems Development. In this pivotal role, Martinez will...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore.—Western Oregon University is excited to announce that its Salem building, formerly WOU: Salem and the Vick Building, will now be recognized as the Center for Graduate Studies. This dedicated hub will serve as a resource for...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University will host the fourth annual Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Summit on April 18, 2025. This year’s summit will focus on institutional change and what it means to create change. Following the previous three years, this...

LTR: Magnolia Rush and Prof. Rob Troyer Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore.—Western Oregon University hosted the North American Computational Linguistics Open (NACLO) this January, an educational competition where high school students solve complex linguistic...

Pictured LTR: TRIO Students Jackie Contreras, Logan Fedrici, and Kiara Washington MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University proudly celebrates National TRIO Day on Friday, February 28. Governor Kotek has declared this day as Oregon TRIO Day in recognition of these...

Pictured LTR: OTD students Oviya Manivakkam Vivekanand and Aaron Hanible  Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore.—Western Oregon University integrates Anatomage technology into its Occupational Therapy Doctorate program, providing students with unparalleled...

Photo: Natural Science Club at Smith Rock State Park Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –As part of project implementation related to the grant awarded from the National Science Foundation Division of Research, Innovation, Synergies and Education last year, the...

Photo credit: Milken Educator Awards Santa Monica, Calif. — A celebration of Alta Loma High School’s California Distinguished School status carried with it an additional honor for one exceptional teacher. Milken Educator Awards Founder Lowell Milken...

Pictured: Lizette Ibarra, student MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is once again offering free tax preparation services through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. Through April 15, individuals can take advantage of expert, complimentary tax...

Photo credit: Western Oregon University Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore.—Western Oregon University is excited to announce its annual Giving Day, Howl from the Heart, taking place on March 4, 2025. This day of crowdfunding invites everyone to contribute...

Photo credit: Pixabay Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore.—The Research Institute at Western Oregon University announced that it has been awarded the Rural Early Learning Facility Improvement Grant from the Ford Family Foundation to continue its vital work in...

Pictured LTR: Ella Rains, Sergio Palomar, Elliot Grass, Brady Allen. Photo by Thaliya Rodriguez MONMOUTH, Ore.—Early this spring, Western Oregon University proudly presents its theatrical production of Stef Smith’s “Nora: A Doll’s House”. Directed by Kindra...

University Marketing and CommunicationsMaureen Brakke, 503-838-9329Brittany Kima, 503-838-8163 MONMOUTH, Ore.—After a thorough search assisted by Anthem Executive, a national search firm, Kwabena Boakye has been selected as the new Vice President for Administration...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore.—The Burlingham Trust recently granted $50K toward supporting the new Student Success Center at Western Oregon University. With a significant proportion of Western’s students, faculty and staff, and alumni coming from Marion...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces the undergraduate students named to the Honor Roll and President’s list for their academic honors for the fall 2024 term. In recognition of academic achievement, the university makes public at the close of each term...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore.—Maps Community Foundation, the community giving arm of Maps Credit Union, is proud to announce its generous donation of $25,000 toward supporting the new Student Success Center at Western Oregon University. This vital support...

MONMOUTH, Ore.—Western Oregon University welcomes students and their families to campus for Family Weekend, an annual celebration of connection, community, and fun. After a four-year hiatus, this cherished event returns, taking place February 28 through March 2, 2025,...

MONMOUTH, Ore. — Western Oregon University is pleased to announce the selection of Joy Brown as the new director of admissions, effective January 22. With nearly a decade of experience in higher education, Brown brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new...

MONMOUTH, Ore. –The Program for Undergraduate Research Experiences (PURE) at Western Oregon University supports and promotes undergraduate research for students in an open, inclusive, and ethical manner.  PURE celebrates and facilitates undergraduate hands-on learning...

Pictured: LTR: Melanie Landon-Hays, Ph.D., David Szpakowski, Ph.D., Feier Hou, Ph.D., and Patricia Gimenez-Eguibar, Ph.D. Not pictured: Kristen Pratt, Ph.D. Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University’s Office of the Provost launched a new...

Pictured LTR: President Jesse Peters, Jan and Mike Morgan, Wolves Rising Campaign co-chairs, and Katie Wojke, Vice President of Advancement & Executive Director of the WOU Foundation Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –On Saturday, December 14, 2024, Western...

 LTR: Zachary Hammerle, Sophia Espinoza, Mimi Swetish, and Robert Shidek. MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University students Robert Shidek, Mimi Swetish, and Sophia Espinoza, along with Western’s Assistant Director of Campus Recreation Zachary Hammerle, were at Smith...

Pictured from LTR: Jaclyn Caires-Hurley, Jennifer Vaughn, Leanne Merrill, and Melissa Cannon. Not pictured: Carmen Caceda, Kathleen Connolly, Patricia Flatt, Sue Kunda, Omar Melchor-Ayala, Christopher Solario, and Kendra Taylor.  MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University’s College of Education has been awarded a $650,000 Latinx Student Success Grant from the Oregon Department of Education, to enhance partnerships with Central School District and the communities of...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University, in collaboration with the Monmouth Business Association will host the 57th annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 6, a beloved event that brings joy and unity to campus and the community....

Photo courtesy of Pixabay MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University supports The Oregon Department of Transportation’s Safety Office by administering the required training to become an ODOT-approved driving instructor through the state’s Traffic Safety Education...

University Marketing and CommunicationsMaureen Brakke, 503-838-9329Brittany Kima, 503-838-8163 MONMOUTH, Ore. – Building upon Western Oregon University’s success in educating bilingual teachers to serve Oregon’s diverse communities, the university has been awarded a...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Sending your child to college is an incredible journey, but staying connected with their campus life can be challenging for many families. That’s why Western Oregon University is introducing something truly special! We’re...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is committed to supporting veterans as they pursue their educational and career goals. Every year, events and activities celebrate and honor veterans during Veterans Week. This year, Veterans Week is from November 8 through...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University is the first public university in Oregon to join the Tri-Alpha honor society specifically for first-generation college students. Nearly 50 percent of Western’s student body identifies as...

Pictured from LTR: Nicole Davison León, Aimee Berg, Maria Guadalupe Salazar, Vanessa Quintero, Keysel Corea-San Ermeterio, Miriam Herrera Hernandez, and Steven Stapp. MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University in partnership with Unitus Credit Union, hosted a...

Pictured from LTR: Raul Sagrero Gaona, Cecilia Rodriguez, Elizabeth Alvarez Mendoza, Cheyanne Ortiz, Shanti Rosales, Mayra Valencia, Tamiya Mitchell, Carlos Urenda, and Kayla Kepa. Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –First-generation college students play a...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University and Clackamas Community College have collaborated on a joint early childhood bilingual pathway partnership that actively supports and recruits Clackamas Community College graduates ready to complete...

Alumni awards that will be presented to recipents MONMOUTH, Ore. – The Western Oregon University Alumni Awards recognize outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities and professions. The 2024 Alumni Award recipients are Joanne...

Diversity scholars 24-25 Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Multicultural Student Services and Programs (MSSP) hosted its annual Diversity Scholars recognition celebration for the 2024-2025 academic year dedicated to celebrating...

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...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University will kick off its annual homecoming week, a tradition that brings alumni, students, and the local community together for a fun-filled week of festivities and school spirit. This year’s homecoming week begins on October 21 and...

Photo credit: Central High School Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. — Western Oregon University and Central High School announce a new direct admission program for graduating seniors with a 3.0 GPA or higher. These students are guaranteed admission to Western...

LTR: Dr. Breeann Flesch; Western Oregon University, Dr. Brian Hall; Champlain College, and Dr. Roberto Flores; Christopher Newport College Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Graduate Studies & Research interim Dean Breeann...

SAN ANTONIO – The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities is pleased to announce the second cohort of its Enlace Mid-level Leadership Program. Fifty-four participants have been selected to begin the program this fall. Cristian Mendez Garcia, assistant...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to announce its annual tree planting and celebration of trees event on September 27 at noon. This event is part of Western’s recognition as a Tree Campus Higher Education institution by the Arbor Day Foundation and...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees recently welcomed seven new trustees after being nominated by Governor Tina Kotek and confirmed by The Oregon State Senate on September 25, 2024.  The new trustees are as follows:...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University Foundation in partnership with Parallel 45 Brewing is excited to announce the launch of a new WOU beer, this Friday, September 27 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Parallel 45 Brewing in Independence.  This event...

LTR: Darian M. Noll with grandparents Karin and Ronald T. Noll MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University alumnus Galen B. Nielsen ‘66, embarked on a journey of education and service that would span four generations at Western. In 1965, Nielsen and his wife, Louise,...

Destination Western’s 23-24 cohort MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s 2024 Destination Western Program starts September 11 through September 20. Destination Western is an all-expenses paid ten-day residential bridge orientation program designed to help...

Photo by Lucia Micarelli & Leo Amuedo  MONMOUTH, Ore. –A half-dozen music and dance groups will delight and amaze audiences with their diverse styles and world-class abilities during the 2024-25 Smith Fine Arts Series beginning in October at Western Oregon...

MONMOUTH, Ore. –The Western Oregon University Foundation released its annual report for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. The report includes total contributions to the Foundation for 2023-2024, and recent budgetary year results on Endowment, Scholarships, and Competitive...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Since 1996, Western Oregon University has housed a national public safety training and technical assistance institute, called the Western Community Policing Institute.  WCPI has been at the forefront of providing innovative training and technical...

Photo: Rick Bailey; president at SOU, Kelly Ryan; president at EOU, Sheila Clough; chair of the SOU Board of Trustees, Jesse Peters; president at WOU, Nagi Naganathan; president at OIT.Photo credit: Wenzao University KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan — The Presidents of Oregon’s...

MONMOUTH, Ore. –The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees recently elected Angela Fasana to serve as the third board chair.  Fasana has been a Western Oregon University Board of Trustee since July 2022, (her current term ends June 30, 2026) and serves on the...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University has named Adeya Powell, Ph.D., the new Institutional Research Director, effective August 30, 2024. Powell holds a doctorate in Research, Evaluation, Measurement, and Statistics from the University of...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces the undergraduate students that have been named to the Honor Roll and President’s list for their academic honors for spring 2024. In recognition of academic achievement, the university makes public at the close of...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University and Chemeketa Community College recently established a streamlined path for students enrolled in Chemeketa’s Bachelor of Applied Science program to further their education and career prospects through...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Foundation announces three new board members: Brenda Rocio Martinez, Jordan Carpenter, and Miranda Garrison ‘09. Brenda Rocio Martinez is a first-generation student from Woodburn and currently serves as the Associated...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy Ronnie Taylor recently released a music album, That One Black Kid, under the name Dr. PDX.The album is autobiographical and includes music chronicling his...

Pictured from left to right: Pamala Warren-Chase, SMCF Administrative Assistant, Camille Mercier, SMCF Board of Trustees, Katie Wojke, Vice President of Advancement, Western Oregon University, Victoria Ernst, SMCF Board of Trustees, Brenda Tuomi, SCMF Board Chair...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University hosted the 17th season of the Oregon Game Project Challenge, a video game development competition for middle and high school students.  Each fall, OGPC announces a theme for the year’s competition, which is typically held in...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University highlights the accomplishments of alum Jenifer Pardy ‘22, a brigadier general in the Oregon National Guard. Pardy received her master’s degree in organizational leadership from Western. During her time in the military,...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University officially joined the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges (COPLAC) this month after a rigorous application process. COPLAC advances the aims of its member institutions and drives awareness of the...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University celebrates the winners of the 9th annual Peter Sears Poetry Prize for undergraduate students.  “It’s become a great literary tradition at Western,” says Henry Hughes Ph.D., who administers the prize.  “It launches young...

Pictured: From left to right: These individuals were recognized for 15 years of service: Ashley Schaumburg, Shawn Sellers, Michael Rose, Jenna Otto, Anna Mahony, Michael Freeman, President Peters, Julie Grammer, and Carmen Caceda. MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon...

Pictured: Isabella Morrill and Abigail Fisher at the Wolf Awards. Emily Sielen and Ana Clark not pictured. MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces the student recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Graduate Undergraduate Awards. The students will be...

Photo: Hannah Rispler (left) and Randi Lydum (right) Photography: Eddie Bruning MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University hosted the 38th Annual Wolves Athletic Auction presented by Oregon State Credit Union on Saturday, June 1, 2024. The event drew nearly 300...

Pictured: Jasper Beck (left) and Henry Hughes Ph.D. (right) MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University student Jasper Beck, an English major, recently won the prestigious College Undergraduate Poetry Competition sponsored by the National Federation of State Poetry...

Max Smoot-Brown, one of the ten WOU students to star in Episode 11. MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is featured in season 11 of The College Tour, a groundbreaking series from Emmy-nominated producers Alex Boylan, Lisa Hennessy, and Burton Roberts, now...

Pictured: Starting from left back row: Ken Pastega, LouAnn Vickers, President Peters, Provost Jose Coll. Starting from left front row: Patricia Goldsworthy-Bishop Ph.D., Brooke Dolenc Nott Ph.D., Earlene Camarillo Ph.D. MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is...

Pictured: Western’s Mariachi Band performing MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University invited over 150 high school students to join the cultural event, Conexiones. The event’s keynote speaker was Oregon State Representative Nathan Sosa.  Conexiones offered...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. The Western Oregon University Program for Undergraduate Research Experiences (PURE) is proud to announce that its annual Academic Excellence Showcase will occur in person on Thursday, May 30. The showcase allows Western...

Photo credit: Monmouth Has Pride MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University, for the second consecutive year, is a partner sponsor for Monmouth Has Pride, hosted by the City of Monmouth. The sponsorship is part of a LGBTQ2SIA+ Student Success Grant, awarded to Western...

Pictured: Congresswoman Andrea Salinas. MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces its 2024 commencement on Saturday, June 15 at 10 a.m. on the MacArthur Field. Over 1,237 students are eligible to walk across the stage and graduate, completing a significant...

Photo: Natural Science Club students at Death Valley National Park MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Natural Science Club recently visited Death Valley National Park with Bryan Dutton, Ph.D., and Michael LeMaster, Ph.D., both biology professors who hosted...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University was awarded funds by the Oregon State Legislature to enhance the state’s capacity to address behavioral and mental health workforce needs along with Eastern Oregon University, Oregon Institute of...

Written by Maureen Brakke Pictured: Earth and Environmental Science students in action on a spring volcanology field trip with Dr. Templeton. MONMOUTH, Ore. The Western Oregon University Earth and Environmental Science program recently secured a three-year GEOPAths...

Written by David Beasley, Ph. D. MONMOUTH, Ore. Western Oregon University is pleased to announce the 38th Annual Wolves Athletics Auction presented by Oregon State Credit Union will be held on Saturday, June 1.  The Wolves Athletic Auction is the premiere fundraiser...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to highlight the accomplishments of alum Justin Martin ‘96, a business owner and lobbyist. Martin received his bachelor’s in public policy and administration from Western, which helped him achieve career...

Written by Maureen Brakke Pictured left to right: student panelist Moises Leal Zepeda, Brenda Rocio Martinez, America Joselyne Salazar Nava, Andy Rincon, and moderator Ricardo Lujan Valerio at the 2024 HSI Summit MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces...

Photo: Cristian Mendez Garcia Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University recently added a new position of Assistant Director of Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives in its Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to support efforts to...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University received a five-year grant from the US Department of Education through the Office of English Language Acquisition’s program Project PROMISE, which provides professional development for teachers both in-service and...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees convened on April 16 and 17 to consider and approve several items, including the tuition & fees for the 2024-25 academic year. The Tuition Advisory Committee, which includes...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s men’s and women’s+ rugby clubs have qualified for the Rugby 7s Collegiate National Championships.  This is the first time both teams qualified in the same year, and the first time Western’s women’s+ team...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University student Caiden Madzelan is a first-year majoring in exercise science and has competed on the hit show, American Ninja Warrior, three times at 19. American Ninja Warrior is a competition show where elite athletes compete on...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University will host the third annual Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Summit on April 26, 2024. This year’s summit will focus on what it means to truly serve students. Following the previous two years, this summit will continue...

Photo: Carlos Camacho teaching his masterclass to Western students MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s percussion ensemble hosted guest artist Carlos Camacho from the University of Panama for a week-long residency in March. The percussion ensemble recently...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to highlight the accomplishments of alumnus Michael Waller ‘08. Waller received a bachelor’s degree in social science from Western, leading him to a career in social work. Western introduced Waller to his two...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University hosted Polk County’s youth conference earlier this month for the second year in a row. The conference invited all rural Polk County high school juniors to Picture their Future.  Polk County Family & Community Outreach...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Aquarium Science program received a grant from the Western Foundation Competitive Grants program to create a display aquarium in the lobby of the Natural Science building.  The Aquarium Science program trains students in...

Pictured: Wyatt Smith MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University student Wyatt Smith is a senior majoring in Political Science and minoring in History. He recently traveled to Florida with USA Track & Field to narrate a championship road race.  USA Track &...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s annual Giving Day, Howl from the Heart, held on March 5, saw great engagement. With 696 donors giving to nearly 60 funds, Giving Day raised $208,406 as of Friday, March 15. These funds will support scholarships, campus...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University highlights the publications of new works by staff and faculty. From October 2023 to February 2024, 37 works have been published, showcasing the dedication and expertise of the Western community. In addition to traditional...

2024 Cohort Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University, in partnership with Uplift Oregon, and additional sponsoring state agencies, introduces the Career Mobility Accounting Program, which is a groundbreaking professional development...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces Isaac Ford Jr. as the upcoming speaker for the Jensen Lecture Series on Thursday, April 4 in the Columbia Room in the Werner University Center.  The public is invited to attend a reception...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –  Western Oregon University unveils its new transformative strategic plan accompanied by a new mission and vision statement and core values that was approved by the Western Oregon University Board of Trustees at the February...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s College of Education has received a Grow Your Own grant (GYO) from the Educator Advancement Council. This funding aims to address the critical need for recruiting and retaining educators across the career continuum. Under...

Pictured from left to right: Malissa Larson, Megan Habermann-Guthrie, Leanne Merrill Ph.D., and Melanie Landon-Hays Ph.D. MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University staff from the Division of Student Affairs has been selected for The Northwest Commission on...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –  Since 1999, Western Oregon University’s Division of Behavioral Sciences has supported Talmadge Middle School students in Independence, Oregon to foster positive mentoring relationships. Juniors and seniors at Western...

Pictured: Henry Hughes Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –  Western Oregon University Professor of Literature and Writing Henry Hughes, Ph.D., recently returned from an expedition to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia Islands, and the Antarctic Peninsula to...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University along with the six other Oregon public higher education institutions, lobbied together at the Oregon State Capitol building during Advocacy Day which took place on February 8 during the 2024 legislative session. All seven...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to highlight the accomplishments of former Oregon State Representative and alum Teresa Alonso Leon ‘02. Alonso Leon received a bachelor’s degree in social science from Western and a Master of Public Administration...

Starting from back left: Max Smoot-Brown, Layla William, Nancy Montecinos, Wolfie, President Peters, David Echevarria, Hunter Hall, Brenda Rocio Martinez, and Aneli Godinez-Martinez at The College Tour VIP launch event. Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. –...

Starting from left to right: Brenda Rocio Martinez, Ricardo Pelegrin, Ph.D., Mary Pettenger, Ph.D., Makeena Helseth, Tyler Plath, Sophie Davenport. MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Model United Nations (MUN) club hosted its annual International Awareness...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces its annual Giving Day, Howl from the Heart, on March 5, 2024. Giving Day is a crowdfunding day that allows everyone to financially contribute to the projects they want to focus on. Since its inception in 2016, the...

Photo credit: @woucampusrecreation MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University will be hosting its annual Health & Exercise Science Career Day on February 8. This event invites current and prospective students to explore the exciting opportunities in public health...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Cybercrime Investigations and Enforcement (CIE) is an innovative and hands-on program, that addresses the critical skills gap in cybercrime investigations for businesses and especially public service agencies in Oregon. The...

Image of Geological Society of America conference poster presentations MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Earth and Environmental Science (EES) Alumni Society presented at the recent Geological Society of America conference, highlighting the program’s...

Pictured: Students hanging out in the Veterans Resource CenterMONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University recently was selected as one of 14 institutions to receive funding from the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs through the Campus Veteran Resource Center Grant,...

AARP and the IRS sponsor Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs that offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals. The VITA program has operated for over 50 years. VITA sites offer free tax help to...

Image of Western students participating in day of service for MLK Jr. Day MONMOUTH, Ore. – In honor of the enduring legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., Western Oregon University is excited to share the opportunities happening this month to commemorate his life and...

Pictured starting from left: Halley Read, Ph.D., OTR/L, Katie O’Day President, OTAO MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Halley Read Ph.D., OTR/L, doctoral capstone coordinator for the Occupational Therapy Doctorate program, was recently the recipient of...

Photo of Breeann Flesch, Ph.D. MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces the appointment of Breeann Flesch Ph.D., as interim dean of Graduate Studies and Research. Flesch assumed the role on Jan. 1, 2024. Flesch joined Western in 2011 and brings diverse...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Since 1856, Western Oregon University has been committed to the region, to serving the people of Oregon, and to the core values of student success. As an innovative public liberal arts institution historically...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Smith Fine Arts Series is proud to present the Rainbow Dance Theatre’s “Maria de Buenos Aires” on January 19, 2024. This interactive performance will mesmerize the audience with its display of dancing lights. The dance...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces the undergraduate students that have been named to the Honor Roll and President’s List for their academic honors for fall 2023. In recognition of academic achievement, the university makes public at the close...

Image of Emily Swart ’20MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to highlight the achievements of alumni, Emily Swart ‘20. She majored in interdisciplinary studies, leading her to embark on a fulfilling career as the donor relations manager at Marion...

Pictured left to right: Jaxon Hutchinson, Meriby Salgado Ydrac, and Arlette Tapia Written by Maureen Brakke, Director of Marketing and Communications MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to showcase the achievements of three outstanding students who...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Professor of Theatre and Dance, Leslie Watanabe, has received several prestigious awards for his film Bonsai released this year. It was showcased at various film festivals this year. Bonsai is a...

Written by Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University, in partnership with  Unitus Credit Union, hosted a reception last month to celebrate eight Unitus Bilingual Teachers Scholars scholarship recipients. This scholarship aims to foster diversity and...

Pictured from left: Ricardo Pelegrin Taboada, Ph.D., Mary Pettenger, Ph.D.MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to announce a new major in Ethnic Studies, starting fall 2024-25. This major aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to navigate...

By Maureen Brakke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Rugby at Western Oregon University isn’t just a sport; it’s a vibrant community, an avenue for growth, and a catalyst for inclusivity. Over the years, Western has evolved into a central hub for rugby in Oregon, embracing...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Cannon Gallery of Art proudly presents the exceptional artwork of the Art & Design Department faculty. This biennial exhibition showcases the remarkable talent and creativity of faculty members, offering a diverse range...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to host the 56th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, a beloved event that brings joy and unity to campus and the community. This year’s ceremony promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend. The...

Pictured, clockwise from top left: Beth Priddy, Carl Garon, Hunter Hall, Tyler Plath, Maddux Gillett, Daizy Hernandez Sorian, Shabryn Herrera, Eva Alvarez, Lilli Jacobs, Destiney TannerMONMOUTH, Ore. – Associated Students of Western Oregon University (ASWOU), the...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is excited to highlight the successful journey of alumnus Juan Larios ‘01, ‘06, who currently serves as Superintendent for the Woodburn School District. Larios, who received his undergraduate and graduate degrees in...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is thrilled to announce its successful inaugural open house for the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program. The event took place on Nov 4 and attracted approximately 75 attendees, with a significant number...

By Maureen Brakke, director of Marketing & CommunicationsThe American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) has selected 22 outstanding higher education leaders to participate in its 2023 Academy for New Provosts (ANP), a leadership development...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Theatre Department is proud to announce the upcoming production of William Shakespeare’s timeless classic, Much Ado About Nothing. This play is part of the ongoing commitment to provide students with a solid foundation in...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University proudly celebrates First-Generation College Celebration Day, a day that recognizes and celebrates the achievements and aspirations of first-generation college students. As an institution dedicated to fostering student success...

Image: Kristen Perry, director of Abby’s House MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University was recently awarded a substantial three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women, totaling $396,766. This grant is poised to...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University invites aspiring occupational therapists and  the general public to an open house for the new Doctorate in Occupational Therapy program starting fall of 2024 this Saturday, Nov. 4 from 1-3 p.m. The event will be held at the...

Top left: Hunter Hall, bottom left: Dave Novotney, top right: Joyce Peters, bottom right: Linda Yorke MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University Foundation announces four new members to its Foundation Board. The new members, Hunter Hall ’23, Linda Yorke, Dave Novotney...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces a momentous boost in overall enrollment, marking the first substantial increase in over a decade. For the fall term of 2023, the university experienced a remarkable five percent rise in overall...

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University President Jesse Peters announced the appointment of Venu Nair as the General Counsel for the institution. Nair will begin this role Oct. 23. “Mr. Nair’s deep experience in higher education and his commitment to diversity,...