Western Oregon University’s Newsletter: May 2026

Dear Community,

Thank you to everyone who attended our Wolves Athletic Auction this past weekend. It was a pleasure to see so many familiar faces and welcome so many new ones. Your support for our student athletes truly makes a difference in their lives and helps them pursue their goals both on the field and in the classroom.

As our spring term comes to a close, we’re grateful for an outstanding year and have especially enjoyed watching our students grow, learn, and flourish.

On June 13, I invite you to join us to celebrate the more than 1,000 students who will graduate this year at commencement on McArthur Field at 10:00 a.m. Our commencement speaker will be Vice President for Student Affairs, Tina Fuchs who will be retiring this month.

Over her distinguished 35-year career at Western, Tina has exemplified what it means to lead with compassion, collaboration, preparedness, and a belief in the potential of every student. We wish her the very best as she begins a new chapter filled with health, happiness, and continued success in all her future endeavors.

Thank you again for your continued support of our university and I look forward to connecting with you all soon!

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

Upcoming Events & Notable Dates

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

The Pastega Award recipients announced

Western Oregon University proudly announces the 2026 Mario & Alma Pastega Award recipients. This is the highest recognition for faculty and staff excellence. A ceremony and reception were held on May 19 to recognize their accomplishments.

Commencement to take place on June 13

Western Oregon University announces its 2026 commencement on Saturday, June 13 at 10 a.m. on McArthur Field. Over 1,084 students are eligible to walk across the stage and graduate, completing a significant milestone in their lives.

Randi Storch named Interim Provost

Randi Storch, Ph.D., will serve as Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, following the departure of current Provost Jose Coll, who will assume the role of President at Western New Mexico University.

Malissa Larson selected as Vice President for Student Affairs

After a national search, Malissa Larson was selected as the next Vice President for Student Affairs, following the retirement of Tina Fuchs, who served in this role for four years and had a distinguished 35-year career at Western.

Two students awarded the second annual Loie Bunse Prize for Nature Writing

Students Malia Vican and Sadie Latimer were awarded this prize which recognizes exceptional student writing that reflects a deep engagement with the natural world.

Three Western alum recipients of the prestigious Crystal Apple Award

Congratulations to three Western alum educators on receiving this top honor for their service in public education. Recipients are Adam Banducci ’98, Stephanie Lassetter ’07, and Jessica Miller ’03.

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!