Mount Hood

Our fearful companion

April 2, 2025

Written by:  Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Fear. A simple four-lettered word that latches onto each of us. What was originally designed to protect us now holds many back. Learning to overcome fears is an essential step toward personal growth, confidence and overall well-being. Although fear is a natural response to perceived danger that is wired to protect us from threats, our modern life has diminished this need. There are many types of fears that one may harbor. Whether it is a singular fear or many, it falls under one of these six categories.

Primal fears — These are deep-seated, instinctive fears that have evolved over time to help us survive. Seen as universal, they are linked to real physical threats that our ancestors faced. According to grouporttherapy.com, “These fears include nyctophobia (fear of darkness), acrophobia (fear of heights), agrizoophobia (fear of wild animals), monophobia (fear of being alone or isolated) and sonophobia (fear of loud noises or sounds).” Since these fears are hardwired into our brains, they require conscious effort to overcome, even if they are not indicative of danger in modern life as they were in primal life. 

Social fears — These are categorized as anxieties related to interactions with other people, mainly centered around the fears of being judged, rejected or embarrassed. They stem from the deep need for acceptance and belonging in society. Types of social fear include glossophobia (fear of public speaking), rejection-sensitive dysphoria (fear of rejection) and social phobia — anxiety disorder — (fear of embarrassment). This type of fear can hold people back from personal and professional growth. 

Phobias — Phobias are intense, irrational fears of specific objects, situations or activities. They include mottephobia (fear of moths), claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces), megalophobia (fear of large objects or things), coulrophobia (fear of clowns), acridophobia (abnormal fear of grasshoppers) and trypanophobia (intense fear of needles in medical settings). 

Trauma-based fears — This type of fear is an intense, persistent fear that develops as a result of past traumatic experiences. It is deeply rooted in emotional and psychological distress, which is often triggered by reminders of past events. This can lead to an avoidance of certain places, people and situations. Trauma-based fears include philophobia (fear of forming or maintaining intimate relationships), decidophobia (paralyzing fear of making a wrong decision) and atychiphobia (fear of extreme failure). 

Existential fears — These are deep-seated anxieties about life, meaning and one’s own mortality. They stem from the awareness of human limitations, uncertainty and the search for purpose. In other words, existential fears center on any big, abstract questions that cause distress if left unresolved. They include thanatophobia (fear of death), apeirophobia (fear of infinity or eternity) and xenophobia. Although xenophobia is used to discriminate against others because of its tie to the fear of strangers and foreigners; the original meaning is much broader, including anything or anyone that’s unfamiliar or unknown. 

Anticipatory fears — This fear can be summed up by its name, given its relation to future events or situations. Anticipatory fears are anxiety about things that might happen. This fear is based on the uncertainty and possibility of negative outcomes rather than any actual, immediate danger. Anticipatory fears trigger extreme anxiety, leading to avoidance behaviors that can interfere with one’s daily life. They include the fear of bad news and aerophobia (fear of flying). 

Despite the fact that fear is a normal part of life, letting it control one’s decisions can limit one’s experiences and growth. Before one can begin to face their fears, we need to understand why we are fearful. 

The first reason is evolutionary survival. Fear helps us to avoid harmful situations. Our brain’s amygdala detects danger and releases adrenaline to trigger our “flight or fight” reaction.

The second reason for fear is social and learned experiences. These develop through past personal experiences and observations. They shape fear through past events, social influences and psychological associations. One may develop a fear by watching others react fearfully. Society teaches us certain fears, and the media, movies and the news can reinforce those fears. 

The third reason is biological and genetic factors. Some people are more prone to fear due to genetics or an overactive amygdala. Genetic factors can stem from certain mental illnesses such as anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders and avoidant personality disorder, making fear responses more intense. 

Lastly, one can be fearful due to uncertainty or lack of control. Many fears stem from the unknown. When people feel that they have no control over a situation, fear tends to increase. Our need for control gives us a sense of security, stability and predictability in a very unpredictable world. 

If someone wants to take control of their fears, there are several things they can do. First things first, one needs to identify and acknowledge their fears. Recognizing what makes one fearful helps provide the power to manage and reduce fear, instead of letting it control us. We need to ask ourselves, “Is this fear based on reality or perception?” This question helps one to decipher whether their fear is rational or irrational. Rational fears are often easier to face because they are based on real, tangible dangers. After recognizing the fear — as long as one wants to take action — the best method to combat it is gradual exposure. Facing one’s fear in small steps helps to desensitize to the fears over time. This helps build confidence, reduce anxiety and regain control over one’s fears. 

During this time it’s important to challenge the negative thoughts that come with it, such as, “Something terrible will happen,” “Other people can do this, but I can’t” and  “Everyone is watching me and waiting for me to fail.” Negative thoughts can make overcoming fear more challenging by reinforcing avoidance behaviors and lowering confidence. It’s essential to replace negative thoughts with rational, positive ones, because that helps us to take action, embrace challenges and overcome obstacles. 

Extra support may be needed from other people in our lives. It’s a completely normal need, especially for those feeling like their fears are too powerful. Their encouragement and presence can provide the motivation and strength needed to take on challenges that come with facing one’s fears. 

Overcoming fears is a journey. Encouragement and praise make one feel accomplished. Although friends and family may be enough for most, professional help can be needed when a fear seems too powerful for one to face. This happens when a fear becomes too overwhelming and interferes with daily life. One type of helpful therapy is cognitive behavioral therapy. This can help people change the way they think about their fears. It focuses on identifying negative thought patterns, challenging irrational fears and gradually exposing individuals to fearful situations in a controlled and supportive way. 

The goal isn’t to eliminate fear entirely, but to learn how to manage it so it doesn’t control one’s life. By stepping outside of one’s comfort zone, confronting negative thoughts and taking small, courageous actions; one gains confidence, resilience and a greater sense of control. The greatest growth lies on the other side of fear. Franklin D. Roosevelt sums it up best — “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear.” 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Let’s get physical

April 2, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Let’s get physical; cardiovascular health refers to the health of the heart and blood vessels. Its system circulates blood, oxygen and nutrients through the body. It’s important to maintain good cardiovascular health in order to prevent disease later in life. It also helps to improve energy levels and overall well-being. With our generation taking health and exercise seriously, it may feel like we have forgotten the importance of cardio while prioritizing strength training. 

There are many benefits of cardiovascular health, with the biggest being that it prevents heart disease and stroke. Unfortunately, heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, but it’s completely preventable with a healthy lifestyle. Focusing on cardiovascular health maintains a strong heart and clear arteries, which reduces the risk of heart attacks, strokes and hypertension. With preventing heart disease comes keeping one’s cholesterol and blood pressure in check. Plaque tends to build up in one’s arteries when they live a sedentary lifestyle. Taking a proactive approach to cardiovascular health can add years to one’s life. A second benefit is that it can boost energy and stamina. When a healthy heart is able to pump blood more efficiently, the muscles and organs get more oxygen and nutrients. When someone gets more oxygen and nutrients, they will feel more alert, active and energized throughout the day. 

When one focuses on their cardiovascular health, there are other personal benefits, such as enhanced brain function, increased quality of life and improved sleep. Working on our cardiovascular health reduces inflammation and stress on the heart, which in turn can lower the risk of certain illnesses, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. With the improvement of one’s quality of life, those who tend to their cardiovascular health can reduce their anxiety and possibly alleviate some of the symptoms associated with depression. With regard to improving our sleep quality, poor cardiovascular health can directly lead to sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea and insomnia. Improving one’s cardiovascular health works to regulate sleep cycles and improve feelings of restfulness. 

As some may want to improve their cardiovascular health, it’s crucial to understand the detrimental effects of poor cardiovascular health. Ignoring this portion of our health can lead to serious, life altering consequences. When one is neglectful, it can lead to an increased risk of stroke, chronic fatigue, low energy levels, poor mental health, increased stress, blood clots and the possible risk of permanent disability. All of this can result in a weakened immune system and a shorter life expectancy. 

Understanding the impacts cardiovascular health has on our lives, there are many workouts that help to improve one’s cardiovascular health. Cardio exercises are also known as aerobic exercises, which help to strengthen one’s heart, improve circulation and boost overall endurance. Here’s a list of some of the most flexible and popular exercises one could try. 

Walking — This is typically seen as the first step in cardiovascular disease prevention. This low-impact, beginner friendly exercise helps to reduce stress and improve circulation. 

Jogging or running — This is what comes to mind when someone hears the word “cardio.” It is easily adjustable between participating outdoors or on the treadmill. Along with walking, these exercises improve one’s lung function, heart rate and endurance levels. 

Cycling — Strengthening leg muscles, this low-impact exercise is great for joint health. 

Swimming — This exercise works the whole body while also being easy on one’s joints. It is ideal for all fitness levels and is a great way to beat the heat in the coming months.

Dancing — This exercise is a fun and engaging way to get one’s heart pumping. It improves coordination and flexibility which can be done alone or in a group. 

High intensity interval training — This last workout consists of short bursts of intense exercise followed by rest. This means that one would burn more calories in less time, boosting metabolism.

Cardiovascular health is not just about avoiding disease — it’s about living one’s best life. A strong heart leads to more energy, better brain function, improved mood and a longer, healthier future. Taking small steps today can make a huge difference in one’s heart’s health over time.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Coastal health benefits

April 2, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

About an hour away from Western is the Oregon coast. Its scenic beauty is a natural sanctuary that offers powerful benefits for the mind, body and soul. The combination of fresh air, ocean waves and natural surroundings can enhance one’s well-being, reduce stress and promote a healthier lifestyle. 

The coast provides many benefits, but boosting mental health is among the most important. Where the water meets land promotes mindfulness, which helps people disconnect from their responsibilities and daily pressures. Its rhythmic waves have a calming effect on the brain, reducing anxiety and stress. Spending time at the coast fosters a deeper connection to nature and encourages environmental awareness. As the protections on our natural environments are not as strong as they once were, it’s important to take time to enjoy the simpler things in life, and the coastal environment is reminiscent of a simpler yet fulfilling life. The open horizon and vast ocean give a sense of freedom and perspective, making problems seem more manageable. 

Another benefit of the coast is the improvement of physical health. Compared to walking on solid ground, walking or jogging on sand improves balance, strength and endurance due to the uneven terrain. Breathing in the salty air can clear the lungs, as it acts as a sort of natural decongestant, making it especially beneficial for those with asthma or other respiratory conditions. The coast also has activities like hiking and beach sports, making exercise feel more enjoyable rather than like a chore. 

Immune and health benefits are a third benefit of the coast. The ocean breeze contains negatively charged ions, which improve oxygen absorption, boosting one’s mood. Studies suggest that people who live near the coast report higher levels of life satisfaction and lower levels of stress. The coast is typically exposed to more sunlight, and sun exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, which is essential for strong bones, immune health and mood regulation. It also increases serotonin levels — a neurotransmitter that enhances mood and promotes feelings of happiness. Although the seawater is quite cold, it contains minerals like magnesium and iodine — promoting skin healing and circulation. 

Lastly, fresh seafood is especially important for one’s health. Seafood is packed with essential nutrients that support overall health, making it one of the healthiest choices available. Its lean protein keeps one fuller for longer and reduces cravings. It also promotes heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease. With seafood being rich in omega-3s — DHA and EPA — it improves memory, focus and cognitive function. This in turn can reduce the risk of some neurodegenerative diseases. For those who workout, omega-3s speed up muscle recovery after exercise. These nutrient powerhouses support brain health, heart function, immunity, skin and one’s overall well-being. 

Visiting the coast provides a natural escape that nurtures both the body and mind. In a world dominated by screens and schedules, the beach offers a digital detox and a chance to further one’s peace in a natural setting. Breathe in the salty air, let the waves wash away the stress and embrace the healing power of the ocean. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Musical storytelling in cinema

April 2, 2025

Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

Content warning: This article contains mentions of violence and death and spoilers

A soundtrack is what makes or breaks a movie. It provides ambience in a scene, sets the tone and communicates the emotions that are meant to be felt when watching a movie. The best composers can make audiences cry, feel utter horror and celebrate when good inevitably triumphs —sometimes all in the same movie. 

It’s in these soundtracks that composers use leitmotifs, or recurring musical themes, to symbolize characters, journeys and even betrayals. It’s in these moments that viewers can understand the deeper context behind a scene, where unspoken words and happenings become evident. 

Maybe they’re not always evident on a first watch-through, but when revisiting a movie or TV show, they become more prominent and jaw-dropping. 

“The Rains of Castamere” by Ramin Djawadi and Serj Tankian — “A Game of Thrones”

The episode of “A Game of Thrones” that this song is known for is perhaps one of the most shocking and bloody episodes of a show in TV history. Many of the main characters — most of whom are of House Stark — are brutally killed, with this haunting melody sung during the slaughter. The song itself speaks of the destruction of Houses Reyne and Tarbeck by Tywin Lannister, whose coat of arms is a golden lion on a red background, and is referenced in the song. 

Of course, it’s revealed that it was the Lannisters who orchestrated this assassination of the Starks, bringing an end to the War of the Five Kings. “The Rains of Castamere” is foreboding in its own right, and between the combination of piano and cello at its core it gives the feeling that, no matter what, the strings will always be pulled by those who have the power.

In later seasons, the song’s melody returns, and is renamed “A Lannister Always Pays His Debts,” playing whenever a member of the House Lannister acts in a way that changes the course of the story — when Tyrion kills his father, Twyin, and former lover, Shae, and when Joffrey succumbs to poison at his wedding. It becomes a leitmotif of death and destruction, exactly what the Lannister family is known for. 

“A Far Green Country” by Howard Shore — “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King”

This is a song that never fails to bring me to tears. It’s melancholic at its start but then swells to a peak that reminds audiences of the darkness that the characters still have yet to face. Its first appearance is late in the film when Pippin asks Gandalf about what happens after death, who then tells the Hobbit of “white shores and a far green country under a swift sunrise.” It is from this quote that the melody derives its name, and it comes to represent the hope of peace and the future they fight for. It plays when Sam and Frodo rest on the slopes of Mount Doom and Sam speaks of his lover, Rosie Cotton, and again at Aragorn’s coronation when he is crowned as the first king in centuries. 

The melody plays a final time when Frodo crosses to the Grey Havens, before fading to the lyrics of “Into the West” sung by Annie Lennox, who is famously part of Eurythmics and known for “Sweet Dreams.” Lennox’s performance is nothing short of ethereal, and with “A Far Green Country” as its guiding melody, it starts melancholic and swells at the end. It is a song of longing and things that have passed, but also one of hope, showing that the things to come are still good.

“Across the Stars” by John Williams — “Star Wars: Attack of the Clones”

Williams’ love theme for “Attack of the Clones” is nothing short of breathtaking and plays whenever Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala face the love they have for one another. The best part about this theme? It is almost completely made up of other leitmotifs; however, the weaving of these melodies isn’t exactly obvious. I mean, I knew that it was the recurring theme for Anakin and Padmé, but it wasn’t until my brother — who loves to remind me of how much he knows about music theory — pointed out the structure of “Across the Stars” that I started to pay attention to the story it was telling. 

The first part of the melody comes from Luke’s theme, which is also the main theme of the series. While his theme starts with a rising fifth, referring to the interval of tones between two keys, “Across the Stars” starts with a falling fifth, the exact opposite of Luke’s theme. 

The second part comes from Leia’s theme, where the woodwinds are what carry the melody and stand as the core of the piece. It’s soft and delicate, speaking of hope and love through the galaxy. 

The bridge of “Across the Stars” is what ties it all together. The deep brass harmonies are a dark presence in the song and initially seem almost out of place. But, when compared to the “Imperial March,” they become a perfect pair. Anakin and Padmé’s theme tells their story, one that would not have been told without their children or Anakin’s turn to the Dark Side. 

“Cornfield Chase” by Hans Zimmer — “Interstellar”

Hans Zimmer is perhaps the most prolific composer of the 20th and 21st centuries. Working on 159 films, from “Batman Begins” to “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron,” Zimmer has dipped his toes into nearly every genre of movie, but “Interstellar” proves to be his most emotional project. 

The film’s main theme is introduced in “Cornfield Chase,” where the minimalistic theme repeats its piano motif, which serves as the backbone of the theme. The inclusion of strings and brass shifts the piece from introspective to exploring the epic scale of space. Its swell represents the smallness of man and the transcendence of space and dimensional travel.

This theme plays again and again in the moments of space travel and as Cooper, the film’s main character, interacts with his daughter Murph across time and space. The emotional impact of the theme is clear in each scene it plays in, shifting the movie from science fiction that warns mankind of its folly to one where mankind has hope for the future and survival. 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Musical storytelling in cinema

April 2, 2025

Written by:  Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

Content warning: This article contains mentions of violence and death and spoilers

A soundtrack is what makes or breaks a movie. It provides ambience in a scene, sets the tone and communicates the emotions that are meant to be felt when watching a movie. The best composers can make audiences cry, feel utter horror and celebrate when good inevitably triumphs —sometimes all in the same movie. 

It’s in these soundtracks that composers use leitmotifs, or recurring musical themes, to symbolize characters, journeys and even betrayals. It’s in these moments that viewers can understand the deeper context behind a scene, where unspoken words and happenings become evident. 

Maybe they’re not always evident on a first watch-through, but when revisiting a movie or TV show, they become more prominent and jaw-dropping. 

“The Rains of Castamere” by Ramin Djawadi and Serj Tankian — “A Game of Thrones”

The episode of “A Game of Thrones” that this song is known for is perhaps one of the most shocking and bloody episodes of a show in TV history. Many of the main characters — most of whom are of House Stark — are brutally killed, with this haunting melody sung during the slaughter. The song itself speaks of the destruction of Houses Reyne and Tarbeck by Tywin Lannister, whose coat of arms is a golden lion on a red background, and is referenced in the song. 

Of course, it’s revealed that it was the Lannisters who orchestrated this assassination of the Starks, bringing an end to the War of the Five Kings. “The Rains of Castamere” is foreboding in its own right, and between the combination of piano and cello at its core it gives the feeling that, no matter what, the strings will always be pulled by those who have the power.

In later seasons, the song’s melody returns, and is renamed “A Lannister Always Pays His Debts,” playing whenever a member of the House Lannister acts in a way that changes the course of the story — when Tyrion kills his father, Twyin, and former lover, Shae, and when Joffrey succumbs to poison at his wedding. It becomes a leitmotif of death and destruction, exactly what the Lannister family is known for. 

“A Far Green Country” by Howard Shore — “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King”

This is a song that never fails to bring me to tears. It’s melancholic at its start but then swells to a peak that reminds audiences of the darkness that the characters still have yet to face. Its first appearance is late in the film when Pippin asks Gandalf about what happens after death, who then tells the Hobbit of “white shores and a far green country under a swift sunrise.” It is from this quote that the melody derives its name, and it comes to represent the hope of peace and the future they fight for. It plays when Sam and Frodo rest on the slopes of Mount Doom and Sam speaks of his lover, Rosie Cotton, and again at Aragorn’s coronation when he is crowned as the first king in centuries. 

The melody plays a final time when Frodo crosses to the Grey Havens, before fading to the lyrics of “Into the West” sung by Annie Lennox, who is famously part of Eurythmics and known for “Sweet Dreams.” Lennox’s performance is nothing short of ethereal, and with “A Far Green Country” as its guiding melody, it starts melancholic and swells at the end. It is a song of longing and things that have passed, but also one of hope, showing that the things to come are still good.

“Across the Stars” by John Williams — “Star Wars: Attack of the Clones”

Williams’ love theme for “Attack of the Clones” is nothing short of breathtaking and plays whenever Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala face the love they have for one another. The best part about this theme? It is almost completely made up of other leitmotifs; however, the weaving of these melodies isn’t exactly obvious. I mean, I knew that it was the recurring theme for Anakin and Padmé, but it wasn’t until my brother — who loves to remind me of how much he knows about music theory — pointed out the structure of “Across the Stars” that I started to pay attention to the story it was telling. 

The first part of the melody comes from Luke’s theme, which is also the main theme of the series. While his theme starts with a rising fifth, referring to the interval of tones between two keys, “Across the Stars” starts with a falling fifth, the exact opposite of Luke’s theme. 

The second part comes from Leia’s theme, where the woodwinds are what carry the melody and stand as the core of the piece. It’s soft and delicate, speaking of hope and love through the galaxy. 

The bridge of “Across the Stars” is what ties it all together. The deep brass harmonies are a dark presence in the song and initially seem almost out of place. But, when compared to the “Imperial March,” they become a perfect pair. Anakin and Padmé’s theme tells their story, one that would not have been told without their children or Anakin’s turn to the Dark Side. 

“Cornfield Chase” by Hans Zimmer — “Interstellar”

Hans Zimmer is perhaps the most prolific composer of the 20th and 21st centuries. Working on 159 films, from “Batman Begins” to “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron,” Zimmer has dipped his toes into nearly every genre of movie, but “Interstellar” proves to be his most emotional project. 

The film’s main theme is introduced in “Cornfield Chase,” where the minimalistic theme repeats its piano motif, which serves as the backbone of the theme. The inclusion of strings and brass shifts the piece from introspective to exploring the epic scale of space. Its swell represents the smallness of man and the transcendence of space and dimensional travel.

This theme plays again and again in the moments of space travel and as Cooper, the film’s main character, interacts with his daughter Murph across time and space. The emotional impact of the theme is clear in each scene it plays in, shifting the movie from science fiction that warns mankind of its folly to one where mankind has hope for the future and survival. 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Western moves on

March 12, 2025

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

After six seasons, Western has officially announced the departure of men’s basketball head coach Wes Pifer and his accompanying staff, marking the end of a challenging era for the Wolves. This decision comes after a series of disappointing seasons, culminating in a two-year stretch where the team held a record of just 10-44, with three of those closely contested victories coming against NAIA or Division III opponents — teams that a Division II program like Western would typically be expected to defeat.
Wes Pifer took charge of the Western men’s basketball program at the start of the 2019-2020 season, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his previous coaching job at Division I Northern Arizona University. In his initial season with the Wolves, Pifer led the team to nine wins out of their first 11 games. This impressive start drove them to the No. 24 spot in the National Association of Basketball Coaches poll. A standout moment during this period was a decisive 16-point victory over then No. 6 ranked Dixie State, a team that has since transitioned to Division I competition.
Despite the initial success, the program’s performance began to decline in following seasons. Over the course of Pifer’s tenure, the Wolves compiled an overall record of 50-84, translating to a .373 win percentage. They also had an overall record of 32-58 in Great Northwest Athletic Conference — GNAC — play under Pifer’s leadership. As stated before, the past two seasons were particularly challenging, with the team recording a dismal 10-44 record.
Many factors contributed to the team’s decline during Pifer’s leadership. The 2023-2024 season was spoiled by numerous season-ending and in-season injuries, including those to key starters as well as potential stand-out players. Of the 14 active players in the 2023 season, three were sidelined with season-ending injuries early on, one left the team due to internal conflicts and others battled persistent injuries throughout the year. This significantly limited Western’s roster, leaving them with only seven healthy players available on some nights. These setbacks scattered overall team performance, ultimately leading to the Wolves missing the GNAC Championships after three consecutive appearances. Recruitment challenges also played a role in the program’s struggles. Maintaining a competitive edge in collegiate athletics relies on effective recruitment, and the Wolves faced difficulties honing in on top-tier talent at the center position coming into the 2024-25 season, impacting their ability to compete at a high level within the GNAC. The GNAC, known for its high-level competitiveness, contains several teams that perform at the best of their abilities on a nightly basis. The lack of a presence in the paint heightened competition, making it even more difficult for the Wolves to secure wins.
Beyond injuries and recruiting challenges, another issue that plagued the Wolves was their inability to close out games. Many of their losses were by narrow margins, with late-game execution proving to be a major weakness. This inability to finish games often frustrated players and fans alike, as the team, along with their coaching staff, struggled to maintain composure in critical moments. Though some of these struggles could be attributed to inexperience and a lack of depth, it became clear that a fresh approach was necessary to change the team’s trajectory.
The decision to part ways with Coach Pifer and his staff was not made lightly. Athletic Director Randi Lydum acknowledged Pifer’s passion and dedication to the program, but emphasized the imperative need for a new direction to restore the team’s competitiveness within the conference. “Coach Pifer is a dynamic and passionate leader. I am grateful for his commitment to our student-athletes and the men’s basketball program,” Lydum stated. “We wish Wes and his family the very best in the future.”
Coaching changes invariably affect student-athletes, both current team members and potential recruits. Current players may experience uncertainty regarding their roles and futures with the program, while new recruits might reconsider their commitments. The ability of Western’s athletic department to quickly hire a strong leader will be consequential in reducing these concerns.
With the search for a new head coach underway, the university is aiming to identify a leader who can rejuvenate the program and steer it back to its winning ways. It is likely that key qualities sought in the next coach will include a proven track record of success, strong recruiting capabilities and the ability to develop student-athletes both on and off the court. Finding a coach who can truly lead a team will be essential, as Western seeks to reestablish itself as a competitive force within the GNAC. The hiring process will be closely watched by alumni, fans and players who hope that the next chapter of Wolves basketball will be defined by progress rather than continued struggles.
The departure of head Coach Wes Pifer and his staff signifies a pivotal moment for Western’s men’s basketball program. The coming months will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the team, and with the right guidance, the Wolves have the potential to rise from the ashes and compete at the highest level within their division.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Western’s budget

March 12, 2025

Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor

Recently, Western’s leaders have been growing concerned with the state of the university’s finances due to increasing operational costs and lower enrollment. 

March 5, in an email sent to Western students, Provost Jose Coll said, “Unless we take additional measures to reduce expenses for the next few budget years, we will not be on a sustainable path.”

This year, the university’s projected deficit spending is $3.5 million. Over the next two years, Western will be working on decreasing expenses by $5 million. 

Many educational institutions across the country are experiencing the same financial struggles as Western. According to an article in The Chronicle of Higher Education, “About two-thirds of all degree-granting public and private nonprofit colleges exhibited one of the three key indicators of financial stress: consistently losing money, fewer students enrolled than a decade ago or a decline in state appropriations or endowment values.” 

The article also stated that universities have recently been more willing to discuss financial hardships, which leads to the universities’ leaders putting less emphasis on revenue generation, and more on cutting costs. 

In Provost Coll’s email, he stated that currently, Western has not made any decisions regarding the closure of any academic programs. In the scenario where a program does get cut, students who are in that program can finish their degree uninterrupted. 

There are many people and committees dedicated to finding a solution to Western’s finances, including the University Budget Advisory Committee and the newly reinstated Academic Sustainability Committee. In an email Feb. 23, President Jesse Peters outlined the steps the university is taking. 

“The new (vice president for administration and finance), Kwabena Boakye, begins March 1st, and he will take over coordination of our budget reduction strategies, including processes for gathering information and feedback,” said President Peters.

The university may have to make some difficult decisions, however, the designated committees, Vice President for Administration and Finance Boakye, Budget Director Camarie Moreno and Western’s other leaders are working together to ensure that students can still thrive at Western.

“I know this type of announcement is stressful and worrisome,” said President Peters. “But our proactive steps will set us on a path for sustainability. Now is the time for us to consider how we best implement innovations and efficiencies so that the university can continue to serve students and fulfill our mission.” 

Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu