Western Oregon University’s Newsletter: September 2025

Every year, WOU’s Peter and the Wolves team proudly participates in the Hood to Coast Relay, honoring the legacy of the late Peter Courtney. A former Oregon State Legislator, long-time WOU employee, and dedicated donor, Peter served as a special assistant to six WOU presidents and had a passion for all sports, including this very relay. This year, our team—composed of WOU alumni, employees, and friends—successfully completed the 196.0 miles, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and determination that Peter championed. 

A Message from President Peters

Dear Community,

I had the wonderful opportunity to connect with many former and future Wolves during my summer travels. It’s inspiring to see our Wolves community thriving everywhere—we truly are mighty! As we prepare for the fall term beginning on September 29, I’m excited to welcome our new students, who will move into the residence halls on September 22.

Tomorrow marks the start of our Destination Western New Student Orientation program, with 160 students eager to join us. This two-week orientation will help familiarize them with our campus and the resources available, ensuring they start their WOU journey with confidence.

This past weekend, I had a fantastic time attending the first football game of the season and the Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Congratulations to all the inductees—what a remarkable honor! I look forward to an exciting fall term and to seeing you all at our upcoming events.

We. Are. Wolves.
Jesse Peters, President
Western Oregon University

Upcoming Events & Notable Dates

September 25: Smith Fine Arts Series. The Arcadian Wild. Tickets on sale now. Get yours!

September 28: High School Boys Basketball Skills Elite Camp II. Rising grades 9-12. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. RSVP.

September 29: Fall Term Begins.

October 17: Athletic Hall of Fame. Pacific Room. 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

October 18: Homecoming. See below for homecoming events. Times coming soon.

• Student Leadership Reunion: Reconnect with past and present student leaders and reflect on the impactful experiences at WOU.
• Softball Alumni Game: Watch our former athletes take the field for an exciting alumni softball game.
• Football Game: Cheer on the Wolves as they compete in a thrilling football matchup.
• Alumni Tailgate: Enjoy great food, free drinks, and company at our alumni tailgate party before the big game.

November 13: Show of Green for WOU student veterans. 8:30 a.m. Under the big flag on Monmouth Avenue.

November 15: Military Appreciation Football Game. WOU vs. Central Washington University. 1: 05 p.m.

November 18-19: Board of Trustees Meeting. See agenda.

December 5: Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Smith Fine Arts Series Season Tickets

We are excited to share our 48th season of world-class performing arts with you! This season promises to be among the best yet, with six fantastic performances featuring bluegrass, Latin fusion, a brass quintet, and a little bit of everything in between. This season has something for everyone! Come as you are and experience the transformative power of music and dance with the Smith Fine Arts Series.

University News

WOU inducts new members into Phi Kappa Phi honor society

21 new members were inducted into the nation’s oldest all-discipline honor society, dedicated to recognizing academic excellence across various fields.

WOU earns national recognition for commitment to first-generation student success

FirstGen Forward recently announced WOU as one of sixty new members of the FirstGen Forward Network. To become a member, WOU demonstrated a commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.

WOU’s Peter and the Wolves team finishes strong at Hood to Coast Relay

Every year, WOU’s Peter and the Wolves team honors the legacy of the late Peter Courtney, through participating in the Hood to Coast Relay.

Provost Coll joins innovative leadership initiative to enhance student success

The American Association of State Colleges and Universities has chosen 26 distinguished higher education professionals for its 2025-26 Millennium Leadership Cohort. WOU Provost Coll is part of this cohort.

WOU and partners prepare students for behavioral health careers through Future Ready Oregon Award

With the support of a 2024 Workforce Ready Grant from the HECC, WOU is preparing more students for behavioral health careers.

WOU Athletic Homegames

Join the Emeritus Society

The Emeritus Society is a group of friends of WOU who enjoy learning new things and exploring the community. Benefits of membership include monthly meetings with interesting topics and engaging presenters, field trips, events, Emeritus Society newsletter, sports, performing arts schedules, and supporting WOU students through scholarships.

Become a member today!

Western Oregon University. Where YOU Belong!