Mount Hood

The military experience

Written by: Michael Hager | Freelancer

Very few people know you can serve your country while getting your degree, and good old Uncle Sam will cover your tuition. I joined the Oregon Army National Guard four years ago when I was a junior in high school, with the intent to go to college and pursue a degree. 

Like a lot of people, my family could not afford to send me to college. One of my high school coaches was a Master Sergeant in the Army and also led the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps — JROTC — program at my school. He told me how the National Guard would pay my tuition, and there I was, 16 years old, with a decision to make.

I always kinda wanted to be in the military — my grandpa was a World War II veteran, my uncle was a veteran and one of my cousins was already in the Guard. I didn’t know what I wanted to do after high school, but my parents wanted me to go to college. I ended up choosing the best of both worlds. 

I met with a recruiter and he explained that once I turned 17, all I would need was my parents’ consent, and I could join the National Guard on a six-year contract. This would cover my last two years of high school and four years of college at any school in Oregon I could get into. 

After trying to convince my parents, almost exactly a month before the pandemic, I signed a six-year contract with the Oregon Army National Guard. I was able to have an older cousin swear me in, which was pretty cool. 

I was sent into the process of split training: Basic Training one summer and Advanced Individual Training — AIT — the next, instead of the normal One Station Unit Training — OSUT — that everyone else would do. This meant that I would go to Basic Combat Training in the summer between my junior and senior years, at the height of the pandemic.

My Basic was supposed to only be 10 weeks but, since it was in the height of the pandemic, we had to quarantine in our barracks for two weeks. I was sent to stay with 40 strangers and the only time we were allowed outside was to get our food. Once we were all clear, we began training 

10 weeks later. A few weeks before my senior year started, we graduated from Basic Combat Training. I completed my senior year through Zoom in 2021, and I officially graduated from both high school and Basic. By that time, I had a good idea of where my unit was going to be, and I knew I wanted to be close to my unit while I went to college. That is why I chose Western: my unit is located in Salem. 

After graduation, I was all set to come to Western in the Fall of 2021, and I went back to complete AIT with all the same people I did basic with, plus another company who also did the same as us. 

At first, it was hell. We had all gone back to high school and lost all our discipline, so the first week or so was Basic all over again. 

Eventually, we completed AIT, and we were officially Military Police Officers, which was our Military Occupational Specialty. A couple of weeks before I graduated, myself and two others were told that once we went home, we were being sent to the border by former Governor Kate Brown. The state governor is the Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard. 

The plans I had of attending college in the fall were over, and I was on a year-long mission. In October of 2021, instead of getting ready for my freshman year of college, I was sent on my mission, but it wasn’t to the border. Much worse, I was sent to the middle of Indiana in the winter to help process and protect the Afghan refugees that President Joe Biden sent over. 

There were around 20,000 refugees who needed to become citizens, and we were projected to be on this tiny base with nothing but a Subway and a cafeteria 10 times worse than Valsetz. 

Luckily, we were able to go home six months later in the middle of what would’ve been the spring term of my freshman year. I was able to register for the following fall semester, which puts me one year behind my peers. 

I started going to Drill, which is where we meet up one weekend a month and train for different things. I started school and continued to go to drill once a month, and then I joined the Men’s Rugby Club. 

My drill schedule interferes with matches and tournaments, but I can work it out with my coaches, and I’m still playing. Drill, for the most part, doesn’t affect my school work except during finals week. 

As a student in the military, I also have access to the Veterans’ Resource Center on campus, which connects me to other military students and resources I can use. On Veterans’ Day, they hold different events I can participate in; one such event is the annual 5K military run, which I won last year. 

This is my journey through the military, and it varies for everyone across the branches.  All in all, the National Guard is a great way to make connections, gain experience and get college paid for.

Contact the author at mhager20@wou.edu

Canciones de Sirena

April 9, 2025

Sadie Latimer | Editora de Noticias

El programa de música de Western es una de las joyas ocultas de la universidad. Hay varios
conjuntos musicales a los que los estudiantes pueden unirse, incluyendo coros, bandas y
orquestas. Organizan conciertos, espectáculos y muchos otros eventos que suelen ser gratuitos para los estudiantes de Western.
Si los estudiantes no están en el programa de música pero desean participar en un conjunto, el Coro de Conciertos no requiere audición y los estudiantes pueden obtener un crédito. También está abierto al público. Muchos de los otros conjuntos están abiertos a estudiantes que no se especializan en música, sin embargo, la mayoría tienen un proceso de audición.
Según el catálogo de Western, la misión del departamento de música es ofrecer “programas y
servicios integrales a los estudiantes y a la comunidad circundante, incluyendo títulos
profesionales y de artes liberales en música y una activa agenda de presentaciones. El
departamento apoya conjuntos grandes y pequeños de música vocal e instrumental, así como
instalaciones modernas para la producción y grabación de música electrónica.”
El 2 de abril, dos músicos profesionales impartieron un taller para estudiantes de música y
posteriormente ofrecieron un concierto gratuito en el Smith Hall que fue abierto al público.
Las músicas Merideth Kaye Clark y Jenn Grinels tienen carreras musicales individuales, pero se unieron para crear música bajo el nombre “Siren Songs.” Lanzaron un álbum en el 2020 — también titulado “Siren Songs,” — y han publicado numerosos sencillos y covers.
Clark y Grinels son artistas independientes, compositoras, instrumentistas y vocalistas. Aunque Siren Songs se centra principalmente en el folk y la música Americana, ambas tienen raíces en el teatro musical, ya que se conocieron actuando en el mismo musical. Clark ha protagonizado muchos papeles amados, como Elphaba en Wicked con el elenco de Broadway en gira (1er gira nacional).
En el 2024, Grinels compuso un musical propio para B-Side Theatricals que fue finalista de
varios premios. Una canción del musical “Goodbye Sun, Hello Moon” fue lanzada como uno de los sencillos de Siren Songs. Eligieron esta canción en particular para lanzarla porque, según Grinels, el sencillo es una de las pocas canciones del musical que encaja en el género folk, mientras que las otras canciones se inclinan más hacia el teatro musical clásico.
El concierto comenzó con Clark y Grinels interpretando tres canciones — dos originales y una cover de Joni Mitchell. El escenario se llenó de numerosos instrumentos que se tocaron durante todo el concierto, incluyendo guitarra, banjo, viola, pandereta e incluso un dulcémele — un instrumento de la familia de las cítaras.
Después de cantar, el dúo abrió el escenario a los estudiantes que habían participado en el taller.
Los estudiantes interpretaron una amplia gama de canciones, incluyendo géneros de pop, teatro musical y R&B. En total, seis estudiantes cantaron frente a Siren Songs y el público.
Después de que los estudiantes presentaran lo aprendido en el taller, Clark y Grinels finalizaron el concierto con un conjunto de canciones de 45 minutos. El conjunto consistió en una mezcla de canciones del álbum Siren Songs y algunos de sus sencillos más recientes. Su sencillo más reciente, titulado “April,” se lanzó el 28 de Marzo del 2025.
La última canción que interpretaron fue “For Good” de Wicked. Siendo Western la última parada de su gira de primavera, decidieron deleitar al público cantando un dueto de uno de los musicales más queridos.
Este concierto y presentación es solo uno de los muchos eventos que organiza el departamento de música de Western. Al final de cada trimestre, cada conjunto ofrece un concierto. También hay otros eventos similares al concierto de Siren Songs. El 12 de Abril, el Beo String Quartet se presentará en el Auditorio Rice a las 7:30 p.m.
Para obtener más información sobre los eventos de artes creativas en Western, visite el
calendario de eventos del trimestre de primavera de 2025.
Contacta al autor en howlnews@mail.wou.edu

Siren Songs

April 9, 2025

Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor

Western’s music program is one of the university’s hidden gems. There are several music ensembles that students can join, including choirs, bands and orchestras. They host concerts, shows and many other events that are typically free for Western students. 

If students are not in the music program but would like to participate in an ensemble, Concert Choir does not require an audition and students can earn one credit. It is also open to the public. Many of the other ensembles are open for non-music majors, however, most of them have an audition process. 

According to Western’s catalog, the music department’s mission is to offer “comprehensive programs and services to students and the surrounding community, including professional and liberal arts degrees in music and an active schedule of performances. The department supports large and small ensembles in vocal and instrumental music and up-to-date facilities for electronic music production and recording.”

April 2, two professional musicians led a workshop for music students and afterward had a free concert in Smith Hall that was open to the public. 

Musicians Merideth Kaye Clark and Jenn Grinels both have individual music careers but came together to create music under the name “Siren Songs.” They released one album in 2020 — also titled “Siren Songs” — and have released many singles and covers. 

Clark and Grinels are both independent artists, composers, instrumentalists and vocalists. Although Siren Songs make mainly folk and Americana, they both have roots in musical theater, having met each other while performing in the same musical. Clark has starred in many beloved roles, such as Elphaba in Wicked in the touring Broadway cast (1st National Tour). 

In 2024, Grinels composed a musical of her own for B-Side Theatricals that has been a finalist for several awards. A song from the musical “Goodbye Sun, Hello Moon” was released as one of Siren Songs’ singles. They chose this song in particular to release because, according to Grinels, the single is one of the only songs in the musical that fits the genre of folk, with the other songs leaning more towards classic musical theater. 

The concert opened with Clark and Grinels singing three songs — two originals and one Joni Mitchell cover. The stage was filled with many instruments that were played throughout the concert, including guitar, a banjo, a viola, a tambourine and even a dulcimer — an instrument of the zither family.

After they had sung, the duo opened the stage to the students who had participated in the workshop. The students performed a wide range of songs, including genres of pop, musical theater and R&B. In total there were six students who sang in front of Siren Songs and the audience.

Then, after the students had showcased what they had learned in the workshop, Clark and Grinels finished the concert with a 45-minute set of songs. The set was a mix of songs from the Siren Songs album and a few of their newer singles. Their most recent single, entitled “April,” was released March 28, 2025. 

The last song they played was “For Good” from Wicked. With Western being the last stop of their spring tour, they thought they would give the audience a treat by singing a duet from one of the most beloved musicals. 

This concert and showcase is just one of the many events put on by Western’s music department. At the end of each term, each ensemble performs in a concert. There are also other events similar to Siren Songs’ concert. April 12, the Beo String Quartet will be performing in Rice Auditorium at 7:30 p.m.

For more information about creative arts events at Western, visit the 2025 spring term events schedule.  

Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu

Cultivating compassion

April 9, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Compassion is one of the most powerful and transformative emotions a person can express. It’s a vital and growing force that has the power to shape both individual lives and communities. It’s easy for compassion to fall between the cracks when we are bombarded with disasters — both natural and man-made. In today’s fast-paced digital world, cultivating compassion is more important than ever, as it helps to build stronger relationships, respond to challenges with resilience and contribute positively to a society in need of greater care and understanding.

Compassion is the ability to recognize and empathize with the suffering or struggles of others — feeling a desire to help alleviate the pain and hardship. Compassion can be expressed through kind words, understanding or even small acts of kindness, and it often brings people closer together. 

Many think that compassion and sympathy go hand in hand, but they are very different. Sympathy is the feeling of pity or sorrow for someone’s misfortune or suffering — it’s feeling bad for someone but not necessarily taking action to help.

Why do we need to practice compassion? For one, it builds stronger connections with the people in our lives. Showing that we care and are understanding towards others fosters a sense of closeness and trust. When people feel valued and supported, it leads to stronger and more meaningful relationships. Being compassionate towards others increases our own happiness. It gives one a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Helping others releases oxytocin — the “feel-good” chemical.

Compassion directly helps alleviate the suffering of others, whether it’s emotional, physical or psychological. We can make a tangible difference in someone’s life, helping them to feel less isolated in their struggles.

Compassion also contributes to the creation of a more caring and supportive society. Compassionate communities are more inclusive, less judgmental and more cooperative. It’s beneficial to everyone because it reduces social isolation and fosters a greater sense of belonging. One becomes resilient in the face of adversity as they practice compassion. Responding with empathy and patience reduces feelings of anger, frustration and helplessness when we are faced with challenges.

Acting compassionately to others can inspire them to act kindly, creating a positive ripple effect. Focusing on understanding and caring for others shifts our focus from personal grievances to more constructive and positive actions that result in the improvement of our own mental state and relationships. In the end, it truly helps to create a more supportive, resilient and harmonious world for everyone. 

There is concern of a decline of compassion within our modern society. Here are some of the reasons why we’re seeing a downward trend.

Increased digital interactions — Social media and online communication increases the loss of face-to-face, personal connections that naturally foster compassion. Because online interactions feel more impersonal, they lead to a decrease in empathy and a sense of emotional detachment. Specifically, the anonymity of the internet can increase cases of trolling and online bullying.

Individualistic lifestyles — Our modern life emphasizes productivity, achievement and individual success. With the prioritization of competition and individualism, there is less focus on collective well-being and concern for others. People may feel too busy or preoccupied with their own lives to engage in compassionate acts toward others.

Social and political polarization — Increasing polarization happens when people are deeply divided. There’s a tendency to dehumanize those on the “other side,” making it harder to feel empathy or compassion for people with differing viewpoints. Polarization also creates an “us vs. them” mentality which, in turn, fuels a society where understanding and kindness are overshadowed by judgment and hostility. 

Cultural shifts towards self care — Although self care is extremely important for our mental and emotional well-being, an overemphasis on individual needs can sometimes overshadow a focus on others. Becoming too absorbed in one’s own self-care routine can lead to the neglect of the needs of others and/or fails to engage in acts of kindness and compassion. The shift towards self-care is due to the constant exposure to global crises, such as war, poverty and natural disasters, through news and social media.  Also known as “compassion fatigue” and “desensitization,” this can be overwhelming, leading one to disconnect emotionally or feel helpless, reducing their capacity to respond with compassion.

There are many challenges that hinder compassion in some areas of society. The decline in compassion may be more related to certain societal trends or challenges, but the ongoing efforts of individuals, communities and organizations suggest that compassion continues to thrive and can be nurtured in response to the difficulties we face. We can fight back by actively practicing compassion.  But ow can we practice compassion? 

Active listening — This means to truly listen to others without judgment or interruption; to listen to understand, not just to respond. Also, to acknowledge someone’s emotions and letting them know they’re heard can be incredibly comforting.

Showing empathy — Try to put oneself into the other person’s shoes to understand their emotions and experiences.  Comfort them by saying, “I can’t imagine how hard that must be for you.” This shows that one recognizes their pain and is emotionally connected to their experience.

Offering help and support — Compassion is demonstrated through action. Try to offer to help through physical assistance, emotional support or being there for someone.

Don’t forget about self-compassion — It’s important to be kind to oneself. Treat oneself with the same kindness, understanding and patience that one would offer a close friend. Instead of being overly critical, be empathetic and offer gentle encouragement. 

Random acts of kindness — Small, unsolicited acts of kindness go a long way, such as holding the door open for someone, sending a thoughtful note to a friend or giving a genuine compliment. Actions not only brighten someone else’s day but also cultivate a mindset of compassion in your own life.

Avoiding judgment — Avoid making snap judgements about others. One’s behavior is often influenced by unseen circumstances. Try to be open-minded and approach others with curiosity and compassion instead of criticism and labels.

Practice patience — It’s a requirement for cultivating compassion. Give people the time and space they need. 

Understand that words have power — Be mindful how one speaks to others. Communicate with kindness and respect. A gentle word can sometimes heal more than a harsh one. Also remember, when offering advice, make sure it’s supportive rather than critical. 

Be present — Sometimes the most compassionate thing one can do is simply be present for someone. Being there for someone in their time of need can provide them with a sense of comfort and connection. 

Be forgiving — This includes letting go of grudges and practicing forgiveness. Holding onto anger or resentment is harmful in the long run. It’s important to know when it’s time to forgive. Forgiving others can create healing and free up emotional space for compassion. It’s equally as important to practice self-forgiveness, releasing oneself from unnecessary blame.

Cultivate compassion beyond humans — This extends to animals and the environment. Reducing waste, conserving water and treating animals with care are ways to practice compassion for the world.

Compassion helps us connect on a deeper level, fosters a sense of empathy and motivates us to act with kindness, understanding and patience. This practice requires effort and mindfulness as the rewards are immeasurable — both for those we help and for ourselves. It doesn’t take much to change the world, but one could try starting with one small act. 

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

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