campus – The Western Howl

February 26, 2025

Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor

Western prides itself on its campus community, where students are supported and uplifted. Part of that support comes from in-person classes, with small class sizes and personalized experiences for students.

Western’s provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jose Coll is leading the charge in reducing the amount of online classes offered at Western in favor of in-person instruction. He created a working committee — the Undergraduate Course Modality Task Force — to conduct research and ultimately recommend what percentage of courses should be taught online.

The task force is being led by Chelle Batchelor, dean of library and academic innovation.

According to Batchelor, “The task force is currently in the process of gathering information to inform the recommendation we have been asked to present to the provost and Faculty Senate in spring term.”

Fall and Winter terms were dedicated to determining what would be best for students when it comes to online classes. The task force will share their findings in the Spring term, which will help the university move forward with the change.

The task force is concentrating on all aspects of online learning. “The recommendation of the committee will consider all modalities with an online component: online asynchronous, online synchronous (Zoom classes) and hybrid,” Batchelor stated.

As of now, the task force isn’t focusing on the fully online majors, such as the ASL interpreting program. The provost’s goal is to limit first-year students to only in-person classes starting Fall 2025 unless their declared major is fully online.

This potential decision will only affect the mode of the coursework, and won’t result in faculty cuts. “Teaching a course in person requires the same amount of FTE as teaching a course online,” according to Batchelor. FTE — full-time equivalence — indicates and measures the workload of faculty.

The potential reduction in online courses has been one focal point of the Faculty Senate, which is made up of representatives from the different departments at Western.

“In the December meeting of the Faculty Senate, faculty discussed concerns about program needs, student needs, student engagement and success, and faculty representation on the task force,” Batchelor stated. “After that meeting, Faculty Senate identified a faculty member to serve on the task force.”

Not only has the task force started working more closely with the faculty, but they have also begun to work with ASWOU in order to engage with Western’s students. Specifically, they are working with Senate President Maggie Bartosovsky and Senator Briana McNeel to bridge the gap between the committee and Western’s students.

Batchelor and the committee are also reaching out to students through Wolfie, the chatbot that sends messages to the student body. Wolfie’s text was sent out Feb. 17. The text also included a short survey that students are encouraged to complete.

The survey and other student input is important for making sure that the university’s decision reflects the needs and wants of all students.

Any decision of the university comes with concerns and opinions from Western’s community. Some students are concerned with how class availability will be affected. Students with full-time jobs are concerned with how they will fit in-person classes into their busy schedules. These concerns are being addressed by the task force, and it is up to them and the university to identify solutions that will benefit the students and the community.

“Over and over and over, I hear comments from students about how important the WOU community is to their success,” President Jesse Peters stated in his report during a Board of Trustees meeting. “And when they talk about it, they talk about being physically here on campus and interacting with peers and faculty and staff. Whatever the college experience is, it simply can’t be replicated on Zoom. And the strength of Western has always been, it seems to me, the way that the campus functions to support students and build community. I will continue to focus on restoring our campus to the physically present, active and engaged community it was before the pandemic.”

The COVID-19 pandemic was a major setback for many schools, including Western, and it will be difficult to rebuild the in-person community to what it was previously. President Peters, Provost Coll and the Undergraduate Course Modality task force have a massive undertaking, but are starting relatively small with hopes to reduce the online courses that are offered to first-year students.

It remains to be seen whether or not the provost and the president’s vision of the upcoming fall term will come to fruition. First, the task force must figure out what percentage of courses should be online, taking into account what opinions the students and faculty have voiced. Then, once they present their findings, the university can come to an informed decision that will ultimately benefit Western’s community.

Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu

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Share your feedback

February 12, 2025

Written by: Daniella Dugan | Title III Coordinator

How do you honestly feel about being a student at Western? What would you change if you could? How has Western fallen short of your expectations? This is your chance to share what you honestly think about your experience at Western. The WOLF Student Experience Feedback form is Western’s first annual opportunity for students to give their anonymous feedback on all areas of student life. Academics, co-curriculars, on-campus dining, housing, employment, personal growth, sense of belonging and purpose — all of these topics and more are included. There is even an open comment section for you to talk about whatever specific issue you feel strongly about at the end of the form. The institution is eager to hear what is improving your experience, worth continued investment and what negatively impacts your overall satisfaction as a “Wolf.”

The goal of the form is not only to give student voices a new platform to be heard, but to use this feedback to help make actionable change on campus. The responses collected will help guide revisions of programs, new services and student opportunities that you are asking for. There is often a large gap between the perceived needs of students and the actual needs of students — this is our chance to lessen that gap. While there may be efforts from your academic department to collect feedback and make improvements, this form is for the institution as a whole and aims to help guide high level decision making for various areas of the student experience, not just in academics.

In addition to being part of the change you want to see, you’ll also be able to enter into a drawing for one of eight prizes, including two $100 Wolfstore gift cards. Depending on your campus involvement, you may be able to enter the drawing more than once. Once you make it to the end of the form, you’ll be led to a new page to collect your contact information and enter the drawing; this entry will not be linked to your form responses. If at any point in the form you have trouble answering or maybe don’t understand the question, just skip ahead. All sections are optional, so you can pick and choose what you want to respond to if you are short on time.

The feedback form will be open during weeks seven through nine of winter term, Feb. 17 – March 9. It will not be open again until the 2025-26 year, so don’t miss your chance to inspire change at your campus.

Contact the author at dugand@mail.wou.edu

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The Incidental Fee Committee

February 12, 2025

Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor

Students often wonder what all of the fees paid alongside tuition go towards. One of these payments is the incidental fee, which funds many campus amenities such as ASWOU, Abby’s House and athletics. All students are required to pay the incidental fee as part of their tuition due to Oregon regulations.

The Incidental Fee Committee — IFC — is tasked with deciding the amount of the fee and overseeing the distribution of the money. It has nine members and three advisors, with all of the members being students.

Students can either run for election, be nominated by Western president Jesse Peters or be nominated by ASWOU President Brenda Rocio Martinez.

One student who was appointed by President Peters is Cody Dickenson, a junior majoring in public health. Dickenson wants to make sure students know what they’re paying for so they can take advantage of the clubs, organizations and events. “It’s always great in any area to have knowledge of where your money is going to and have a say in what to do with it,” Dickenson said.

The Committee Chair is Rhylie Sevits, a senior and gerontology major at Western.

According to Sevits, if an event, organization or club is funded by the IFC, the committee’s logo must be present on any posters on campus. “Once you know that, you can literally see where your money is going,” Sevits said.

Another member, Nathaniel Rivera, said that it’s important to have the incidental fee because it helps support students. A portion of the funds goes toward the payroll of many campus jobs. Without the fee, many programs would not exist, and many student workers would not be getting paid.

IFC members know that students have a right to be aware of where their fees are going, and they also have a right to voice their opinions about the incidental fee. The committee is holding hearings that are open to Western students who want to advocate for different distributions of the funds. The open hearings will be February 24, 26 and 27. More information on the hearings can be found on the IFC website under “IFC Meeting Schedule.”

“I want to emphasize going to the open hearings … getting your voice out there and being involved in this process,” Dickenson said.

The process of deciding the fee amount is essentially a small debate, according to IFC member Aidan VanDyke. The committee — along with its advisors, ASWOU representatives and any other students who wish to participate — look at the fee from the previous year and discuss whether they want to raise, lower or keep it relatively the same. They also take into account the opinions and requests of students who speak at the open hearings. Once the IFC is satisfied with the proposed budget, it goes through several layers of people and organizations, including the ASWOU senate, President Peters and the Board of Trustees.

The process is long and diligent, making sure that the programs included in the fee have the money they need to provide the best experience possible for Western students.

Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu

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ASWOU

February 5, 2025

Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor

The Associated Students of Western — ASWOU — is Western’s official student government. It is run by students, for students.

ASWOU is extremely active on campus, representing students’ interests and needs, overseeing clubs, putting together programs on campus and ensuring that students have their voices heard.

ASWOU President Brenda Rocio Martinezis a fourth-year student at Western, double majoring in communications and public policy and administration.

“My role is (mainly) representing students in general and having their best interest in mind,” Rocio Martinez said. As a student herself, Rocio Martinez is always looking for ways to support her peers. “We always like to put our ear to the ground and see (what students want and need.)”

ASWOU not only supports individual students but student clubs as well. Joining a club is how Rocio Martinez first got involved on campus, followed by her becoming a justice in the judicial branch of ASWOU. After that, she was ASWOU’s director of PR, then, finally, the president.

Rocio Martinez knows the importance of getting involved through clubs on campus, so she strives to make sure the clubs have the resources, training and support they need. One of her goals is to allow the clubs to collaborate and connect with each other.

“I just want to be able to serve students,” Rocio Martinez said. “We are student-funded, so we’re here for (students).” ASWOU is funded by the IFC — Incidental Fee Committee. Students pay a set amount as part of their tuition and fees, which goes towards several student activities on campus, including but not limited to ASWOU, student media, Abby’s House, WOLF Ride, athletics, campus recreation, childcare and more.

Every person involved in ASWOU is dedicated to making their fellow students’ voices heard. “People in higher positions like faculty and staff are wanting the students’ perspective, and ASWOU can give that perspective,” Rocio Martinez said.

“Elections should be coming pretty soon for anyone who wants my position in the future. And I will say this: it’s not hard, it’s fun,” Rocio Martinez said. She loves getting to be more involved in her community as ASWOU president. According to Rocio Martinez, the position has helped her become a better leader. It has also been helpful for her field of study and will likely apply to the career path she wishes to follow. ASWOU elections will begin at the start of spring term. For students who wish to run for election, applications open March 8.

ASWOU has weekly public meetings on Fridays in the Calapooia room of the Werner University Center. The executive branch of ASWOU holds their meeting at 12 p.m. and the senate meets at 2 p.m.

The judicial branch’s meetings are not weekly, instead they are held “when there’s work to do,” Rocio Martinez said. “That entails rules being broken by any clubs or any students, if there are any concerns or if people just want an interpretation of a law.”

For students who have concerns, comments or questions, an ASWOU senate meeting is the place to be. The senate focuses on things such as bylaws, getting involved with the clubs they oversee and the needs of students.

If students have large concerns, they can fill out an ASWOU student feedback form, which goes to the senate. The form is located on the student portal under the My Programs tab.

Rocio Martinez knows how difficult it is to advocate for every student, which is why it is important for students to bring their concerns and feedback to ASWOU’s attention. A community thrives when everyone supports each other and works together to make positive changes.

“We ensure that students are well represented if they feel anything should change,” Rocio Martinez said. “Change comes with many people. It takes a village to make true change.”

Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu

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My Western experience

Written by: Taylor Duff | Lifestyle Editor

Western was founded in 1856 as Monmouth University, making it one of Oregon’s oldest public institutions. The school has a long history and a strong dedication to education dating back over 160 years, with Western Oregon State College being renamed in 1939, leading to Western’s formal establishment as a university in 1989. This rich tradition instills pride in the community, and I’ve always felt that as a student here. My experience at Western is probably similar to many others — the campus is smaller and only a few blocks long, yet it’s easy to become lost in the halls and classes, especially in the first few weeks. I’ve had my share of disorientation trying to identify buildings on campus or figuring out which direction to walk when I’m in a new area of the school. But, in other ways, the size has been a great thing as everything is nearby, leaving a comforting feeling from being in a location that’s easy to explore once you get the hang of it.

What stands out the most from my experience at Western is the sense of community. The classrooms are small enough to build relationships with your teachers and fellow students, but large enough to provide a variety of ideas, viewpoints and interests. Compared to the big lecture halls I had seen in movies or heard about at other universities, Western’s classes felt much more personal and approachable. They were small enough that I felt at ease stepping in, knowing that I could have discussions with my professors and peers. It was simple to pick up a conversation with students, and I truly felt like I was a part of something more than simply a classroom, but part of a community.

Western’s dedication to diversity and inclusion contributed significantly to my sense of belonging. Western is extremely diverse, reflecting a broad variety of cultural, ethnic and socioeconomic origins. Western actively promotes diversity through a range of services, including community centers, multicultural student clubs and activities that encourage inclusiveness on campus. I felt Western was the right school for me, not simply because of its history or location, but because of its real commitment to accepting and giving respect to everyone.

I had a special connection to the university long before I became a student. I grew up witnessing my mom graduate from Western when I was 12 or 13, and the campus and buildings have always seemed like home. The familiarity of Western’s streets, the charm of Monmouth and the inviting attitude all helped me feel connected as a student. Coming back to Western as a college student meant more than simply continuing my education, it felt like coming full circle. When I reflect on my time at Western, I am extremely proud of the route I’ve chosen. From the first day on campus, I felt encouraged and advised, whether through academic advice or just knowing I could bring up concerns to my instructors. There was always a helping hand when I needed it, and I felt it throughout my journey. I’m happy that I got to experience Western for all it is and meet many other students on the way.

My involvement with “The Western Howl,” the university’s student-run newspaper, was one experience that truly impacted my time at Western. I met other students who worked with me at the paper and it changed my college experience for the better. Initially, I came to Western to pursue a bachelor’s degree in English, but after being involved with the Howl and continuing my love of writing and collaboration, I changed my major to communications. The transition seemed natural, and looking back, it was one of the greatest changes I’ve ever made. Being part of the Howl allowed me to express myself in ways I had not before considered. Writing for the newspaper allowed me to not only show my talents but also to express myself on issues that were important to me and the campus community. It wasn’t just about producing articles, it was about the process, creativity and working with other students. The work I made with the Howl formed my interest in communications and helped me determine my professional goals in ways that no textbook or lecture could.

What distinguishes Western from other schools is its dedication to assisting students in discovering their interests and directing them to programs and opportunities that match their passions. Western provides a diverse range of academic programs and resources to fulfill the requirements of all students. Every department, whether you study education, arts, sciences or communications, fosters a culture of inclusion. The instructors are friendly and truly concerned about their student’s progress. The tools offered from student clubs to internships form an unforgettable network of support.

I’m very grateful for the time I spent at Western. The experiences, friendships and mentorships have shaped me both as a student and as a person. Without the help of my classmates, teachers and most importantly the people I met at the Howl, I’m not sure where I’d be in my educational journey or my career ambitions now. The university, its tight-knit community and its range of viewpoints all combined make my experience at Western extremely memorable. As graduation approaches, it’s bittersweet to know that I’ll be leaving a place that has seemed like home for so many years. I will take the lessons, friends and sense of belonging wherever I go.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

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First-gen week

Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor

The week of Nov. 4 – Nov. 8 was dedicated to Western’s first-generation students. Almost 50% of Western’s student population are first-generation college students. Each day of the week had events that were themed around different aspects of being a first-generation student.

Monday’s theme was financial literacy and basic needs. There were events that taught students how to budget for groceries and meal prep and a financial literacy workshop hosted by Unitus Credit Union.

Tuesday was designated for mental health awareness. Students learned about mindfulness and self-care, wrote gratitude letters and unwound with arts and crafts.

Wednesday’s theme was about finding a support system by meeting new people and making connections. The first event was a meet and greet with first-generation Western employees, with yoga and meditation being offered shortly after. An escape room for first-generation students was put together in the Willamette Room of Werner University Center. That evening,there was a presentation about navigating college life.

Thursday was centered around career readiness, with events that helped students be prepared for their future careers. Students could get free professional headshots taken. They could also prepare for the Fall Extravaganza, happening Nov. 13, by learning how to network, build a resume and succeed in an interview. Thursday’s theme also had the “Career Readiness Inventory” event and a panel of first-generation alumni.

Friday was the time for people to learn about and celebrate National First-Generation Day. The day started with the Experiential Learning Workshop with Mohammed Soriano-Bital. After the workshop concluded, a panel was held highlighting first-generation Western employees. The last event of the week was a lunch that was catered by Mi Casita Market.

Along with organizing a first-generation week and celebrating National First-Generation Day, Western has also joined the Alpha Alpha Alpha, or Tri-Alpha, Honor Society. Tri-Alpha is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and celebrating first-generation students who are pursuing higher education. Moravian University in Pennsylvania founded Tri-Alpha in March of 2018. Over 150 universities in the U.S. have since made a Tri-Alpha chapter, but Western is the first public college in Oregon to join the organization.

Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu

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Get involved

Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor

Macy Clemens is the program assistant for marketing and virtual engagement. In Spring 2024, she graduated from Western with a bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in marketing. On campus, Clemens promotes events and is passionate about encouraging students to participate in everything Western has to offer. Because of her interest, Clemens decided that Student Engagement was the perfect place for her.

One tool that Clemens hopes students take advantage of more often is Involve, which is a website that has lists of clubs, organizations and events on campus.

“With Involve, students can explore everything happening at campus at any given time. It’s like a personal event calendar for all things at (Western), which I think is helpful,” said Clemens. “Involve offers some cool opportunities and it helps students to gain skills and build their networks.” Upcoming events on campus include the “FEM in STEM Speaker Series” Nov. 14 from 4 – 5:15 p.m., the “Show of Green” event Nov. 14 from 8:30 – 8:50 a.m. with a veteran’s breakfast the same day at 9 a.m. Additional information on those events and others can be found through Involve.

“Involve can either be accessed through (your) portal, or you can download an app on your phone,” said Clemens. Students can connect the app to their Google calendar so they are notified when there is an event coming up. For many organizations and events, students can see more information and sign up directly on the Involve app or website. It also shows users how to contact many of the groups on campus.

“It’s more than an app though — It’s a way for students to find and build a community,” said Clemens. “Involve can help you get connected on campus. And it also helps make connections that extend beyond college.”

Clemens knows that students may be nervous to try clubs or go to events that are new to them, however, she believes that the experiences students will gain from getting involved will be invaluable.

“Branching out is what’s really important,” said Clemens. “Taking that first step and going to these different events is really helpful. You might realize it’s actually a lot better, even if (you were) nervous to branch out a little bit.”

Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu

Western Oregon University’s Land Acknowledgement
Western Oregon University in Monmouth, OR is located within the traditional homelands of the Luckiamute Band of Kalapuya. Following the Willamette Valley Treaty of 1855 (Kalapuya etc. Treaty), Kalapuya people were forcibly removed to reservations in Western Oregon. Today, living descendants of these people are a part of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians.

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Online courses: yea or nay?

The Incidental Fee Committee

ASWOU

My Western experience

First-gen week

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