Western Oregon selects Executive Director of Human Resources Desiree Noah-MONMOUTH, Ore. – Dr. Jesse Peters, Western Oregon University President, names Desiree Noah as the university’s Executive Director of Human Resources. Please join us in congratulating Desiree Noah, who will begin her role on June 26th. “Desiree Noah is the right leader at the right time for the Human Resources Team at Western Oregon University. […]
Western Oregon’s Board of Trustees Approve Tuition & Fees for 23-24 Academic Year-MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Board of Trustees convened April 18th and 19th to consider and approve several items, including the Tuition & Fees for 2023-2024 Academic Year & Summer 2023. The Tuition Advisory Committee, which includes students, staff, and faculty submitted a suggested tuition increase of 3.09% which was accepted by the president […]
Western Oregon University’s 2023 Athletic Auction-MONMOUTH, Ore. – The Western Oregon University Wolves Athletic Auction is returning for its 37th year on Saturday, June 3, and again will feature an in-person and online silent auction with several great items up for bid. This is the most impactful fundraiser of the year benefiting our current and future Wolves student-athletes. Proceeds will impact all […]
The Write Place moves to Western Oregon University-MONMOUTH, Ore. – The Write Place, a nonprofit founded at Western Washington University in 2013 and dedicated to creating and supporting literary and artistic projects that inspire appreciation of humanity’s intimate relationship with the natural environment, is moving to Western Oregon University. The Write Place board approved WOU English professor Henry Hughes as its new […]
Another successful Giving Day for Western Oregon University-MONMOUTH, Ore. – The 2023 Western Oregon University Giving Day (Howl from the Heart) was a great success! More than 500 benefactors made gifts to support 74 different funds to benefit students and programs. As of Friday, March 17, $205,795 has been raised due to your generous support. Two scholarship endowments were fully endowed thanks […]
Ricardo Lujan Valerio named Director of Government Relations-MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University President, Jesse Peters, recently named Ricardo Lujan Valerio as the university’s Director of Government Relations, effective January 16th. “I am pleased to welcome Rico to the leadership team at Western. Not only does he have key experience, he is also a first-generation college graduate of a regional university. He […]
Western Oregon presents Considering Matthew Shepard-MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Smith Fine Arts Series presents a striking lineup of shows this 2022-2023 season, including Considering Matthew Shepard on March 3rd and 11th, 2023. The March 3rd performance supports the WOU choral program. Considering Matthew Shepard, a Grammy-nominated, three-part fusion oratorio by Craig Hella Johnson, was written as a musical […]
Western once again receives Tree Campus Higher Education recognition-MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University has met the Tree Campus Higher Education standards for 8 years now. WOU is one of just eight higher education campuses in Oregon that obtained this recognition. Acquiring and maintaining this status has created many opportunities and has helped improve, maintain and celebrate our campus trees. To obtain this […]
Western remains the largest preparer of new teachers in Oregon- MONMOUTH, Ore. – According to the U.S. Department of Education’s Title II report, Western Oregon University remains the largest preparer of newly licensed teachers in Oregon for the second year in a row. WOU graduated 14.56% of all licensed teachers in the state of Oregon in 2021-2022. “Preparing educators is one of the strengths […]
Western Oregon named NCAA Division II 2023 Award of Excellence finalist-MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University (WOU) is one of 22 universities named finalists for the 2023 NCAA Division II Award of Excellence, an award that recognizes events which promote student-athletes giving back and serving as leaders within their communities and on their campuses. WOU was nominated for the award in recognition of the partnership […]
Katie Wojke named Vice President of Advancement at WOU-MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University President, Jesse Peters, recently named Katie Wojke as the university’s Vice President of Advancement, effective January 30. “She is a productive fundraiser, partnering with donors to support students, faculty, and programs. Katie is driven by the compelling mission of access to higher education and the development of outstanding future […]
Western Oregon Wins Prestigious NWCCU Beacon Award-MONMOUTH, OREGON — Western Oregon University’s recent comprehensive review and revision of undergraduate degree requirements has been selected as the winner for the 2022 Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) Beacon Award for Excellence in Student Achievement and Success. Beginning in 2017, WOU faculty investigated alternatives to its existing general education and university degree […]
New Trustees Join Western Oregon University’s Board of Trustees-MONMOUTH, Ore. – Cristian Mendez-Garcia and Guadalupe “Lupe” Diaz were confirmed by the Oregon Senate to serve on the Western Oregon University Board of Trustees, succeeding former trustees Zellee Allen and Linda Herrera. Mendez-Garcia and Diaz join new trustees Kari Nelsestuen, Angela Fasana, and Michael Reis, who were all confirmed during the June Legislative Days […]
SEIU and Western Oregon Announce SEIU Local 503 Members Tuition Discount-MONMOUTH, OREGON— In an historic move, Western Oregon University is offering SEIU Local 503 members discounted tuition for up to 12 credits per term. This partnership will enable SEIU students the ability to access over 200 programs of their choice. SEIU students will be able to work towards or finish a bachelor’s or master’s degree, or […]
Western Oregon University Offers In-State Tuition Rate to all Enrolled Members of Federally Recognized Indigenous Nations-MONMOUTH, OREGON—Starting fall 2022, Western Oregon is offering in-state tuition to any enrolled member of federally recognized tribes within the US. The Native American Tuition-Western Oregon University (NAT-WOU) initiative allows incoming indigenous students to pay the equivalent of WOU resident tuition regardless of their state or country of residence. Oregon’s oldest public university, Western Oregon was established […]
Supreme Court Ruling on Roe v. Wade-MONMOUTH, OREGON — Western Oregon acknowledges the momentous impact on many of our faculty, staff and students, with the US Supreme Court’s recent decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Our university remains committed to the power of liberty in the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and observes that any threat to the liberty of our community and its members is a detriment […]
WOU’s Board of Trustees Slated to Appoint Dr. Jesse Peters as University President- MONMOUTH, Ore.—The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees plans to appoint Dr. Jesse Peters as the university’s next president at its June 8, 2022 meeting. Dr. Peters will succeed retired president Dr. Rex Fuller and interim president Dr. Jay Kenton. Dr. Jesse Peters is the current Dean of Arts & Sciences at Ft. Lewis College […]
Valley Shakespeare Company at Western Oregon University to receive National Endowment for the Arts grant-MONMOUTH, OREGON —Valley Shakespeare Company at Western Oregon University has been awarded a $10.000 Grant for Arts Projects from the National Endowment for the Arts to support El Bardo en el Valle: with Milagro at Valley Shakespeare Company. This project will bring a Spanish-language production to the stage of Valley Shakespeare Company in the summer of […]
Western Oregon University collaboration involves the public in conserving Oregon’s freshwater turtles-MONMOUTH, OREGON —Western Oregon University in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) are proud to announce the launch of a bilingual website and ‘community science’ app to help monitor Oregon’s freshwater turtle populations. This collaborative project was developed over a period of years, with The Oregon Native Turtle Working Group, the […]
Academic publication shows new details of Hispanic origins of Oregon-MONMOUTH, OREGON —Western Oregon University and the Instituto de Cultura Oregoniana proudly announce the launching of “Hispanic Origins of Oregon,” a collaborative work that tells of the time of commerce between Native Americans, Hispanics, British and Russians along the Pacific coast of North America. The launch will take place at Western Oregon University’s Hamersly Library […]
Western Oregon University chosen as newest Amazon Career Choice Partner-MONMOUTH, OREGON —Western Oregon University is partnering with Amazon to offer Amazon employees in the Salem area a new option for pursuing a college degree. Eligible local employees will be able to enroll in one of Western Oregon’s over 200 unique majors, minors, certificates, and concentrations with annual tuition assistance covered by Amazon. Amazon’s Career […]
Holocaust Remembrance Day-Holocaust Remembrance Day begins Wednesday, April 27th and ends the evening of Friday, April 29th. Each year, Western Oregon University puts on an event to commemorate the lives lost during the Holocaust. The Holocaust encylopedia defines, “The Holocaust was the systematic, state-sponsored persecution and murder of six million European Jews by the Nazi German regime […]
Western Oregon University receives $8.4 million to assist Oregon Early Learning-MONMOUTH, OREGON —Western Oregon University’s The Research Institute, led by Robyn Lopez Melton, has been awarded $8.4 million from the Oregon Early Learning Division to build capacity within Oregon’s early learning system. This funding will allow Western Oregon’s The Research Institute’s Center on Early Learning and Youth Development to design, implement, and manage Oregon’s first […]
Ava Howard Teaches Research Skills with BI409 Practicum-Dr. Ava Howard is a Biology professor at Western Oregon University who recently taught a field research practicum course over the summer. She has been teaching plant biology and ecology at WOU for 13 years. In addition to teaching, she is also involved in creating scholarship and research opportunities for students, which she is very […]
National Student Exchange student at WOU shares about her experience-WOU student Nicole “Nickie” Hayes from Poughkeepsie, N.Y., has been featured in her home region’s local newspaper. She talks about why NSE was a great solution for her and why she selected WOU for her exchange site. Check out Nickie’s story!
WOU Alum Greg Garcia Wins Oregon History Teacher of the Year Award-Greg Garcia, an alum of Western Oregon University and teacher at Franklin High School with Portland Public Schools, was named the 2021 Oregon History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History in July. To honor this inspiring achievement, we want to share the highlights from our interview with him. When […]
Willamette Promise Student Leadership Institute Brings Students to Campus-In partnership with the Willamette Education Service District, WOU hosted the Willamette Promise Student Leadership Institute in August. I interviewed Addie Howell, the Accelerated Learning Manager at Willamette Promise, about the program, and what it aims to do for students. Ok, big picture: What is the Willamette Promise? What is its mission? The Willamette Promise […]
MLK Celebration Week at WOU Promotes Black Excellence Through Storytelling-Western Oregon University’s week of activities celebrating the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is Jan. 17-21. I interviewed Alexis Larson, a member of the 2022 MLK Jr. Celebration Week Planning Committee, about the inspiration of the events of the week. The overarching theme of this year’s celebration is promoting Black excellence […]
Bilingual Teacher Scholars program expands scholarships and eligibility-Oregon has experienced a shortage of bilingual teachers for many years, and Western Oregon University (WOU) has been working to address this gap while trying to help diversify the state’s teacher workforce with our Bilingual Teacher Scholars (BTS) program. BTS provides bilingual and bicultural students (in Spanish and English) with an annual scholarship of $3,000, […]
WOU Instructors Play Major Role in Expansion of Protactile Language-Western Oregon University’s DeafBlind Interpreting National Training & Resource Center was recently awarded a five-year, $2.1 million grant for interpreter training. OPB’s Think Out Loud filmed a show about the grant and Protactile in November, which ran Jan. 5. DBI’s lead educator, Jelica Nuccio, is a DeafBlind leader in the Protactile movement and is among those […]
National Student Exchange Program Creates Opportunities for Students-The National Student Exchange (NSE) program is hosting several informational sessions this January for all who are interested! In anticipation of these sessions, I had the pleasure of interviewing NSE coordinator Emmanuel Macías and Liam Birr, a NSE participant, about the wonderful opportunities made possible through the program. NSE is a domestic collegiate study-away program, […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship: Melanie Landon-Hays-The Mario and Alma Pastega Awards of Excellence were given in June 2021, but because of timing issues, three faculty profiles were not included in the Commencement program. They are offered here instead and on the Pastega Award web page. —- The Award for Excellence in Service recognizes faculty accomplishment in service, honoring work that engages […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees approves presidential search prospectus, legislative request-The Western Oregon University (WOU) Board of Trustees on Tuesday approved the presidential prospectus presented by search firm Anthem Executive and agreed that WOU should request $16 million in emergency funds from the Oregon Legislature to pay for an extensive steam pipe repair project. During fall term, Anthem Executive engaged groups from across campus, including […]
WOU Men’s Rugby Team to Compete in National Championship-The WOU Men’s Rugby team has gone undefeated in all of its conference matches this year! As conference and regional champions, the team has qualified for the National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) championships in Houston, Texas. There they will compete with the champions from the other three regions for the title of national champions. I had […]
Forensic Anthropology Professors Host Podcast-Dr. Misty Weitzel and Jerielle Cartales teach forensic anthropology here at WOU who have started a podcast together titled Cabin Femur: Forensic Anthropology in the Age of Quarantine. The following is a curated version of my interview with them about the podcast and forensic anthropology in general. Jasper: Okay, why don’t we just hit the […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship: Dr. Jaime Cloud-The Mario and Alma Pastega Awards of Excellence were given in June 2021, but because of timing issues, three faculty profiles were not included in the Commencement program. They are offered here instead and on the Pastega Award web page. —- The Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching honors a full-time faculty member […]
New Destination Western Program Succeeds in Preparing Students-Destination Western (DW) is an all-new two-week residential program that wrapped up prior to the start of the 2021-22 academic year. I had the dual pleasure of not only participating in the program itself, but also interviewing some of the brilliant minds behind it. Megan Habermann is the director of new student and family programs […]
Getting to Know Some of our Student Veterans-In honor of Veteran’s Day, we want to introduce you to some of our student veterans here at WOU. Thank you to the students who talked with us, and thank you to all veterans for your service. Jake Sutherby Jake Sutherby has been part of the WOU SVA club since 2016, and is its current […]
Linguistics Professor David Hargreaves Publishes New Poetry Collection-Dr. David Hargreaves has been a professor of linguistics here at WOU since 1998. He has recently published a collection of original poems, titled Running Out of Words for Afterwards. I had the pleasure of interviewing him about this new book, and how it was inspired by his experiences studying the Nepal Bhasa language in […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship: Dr. Cornelia Paraskevas-The Mario and Alma Pastega Awards of Excellence were given in June 2021, but because of timing issues, three faculty profiles were not included in the Commencement program. They are offered here instead and on the Pastega Award web page. —- The Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship honors a full-time faculty member […]
Western Oregon University’s Smith Fine Arts Series opens season with international jazz singer Halie Loren-The Smith Fine Arts Series at Western Oregon University (WOU) is pleased to celebrate its 44th season returning to live, in-person performances at Rice Auditorium on the WOU campus. The 2021-22 season includes six events, and each begin at 7:30 p.m. The season opens on Friday, Oct. 8 with international jazz singer/songwriter Halie Loren. […]
Western Oregon University receives $2.1 million to increase support for DeafBlind individuals-The DeafBlind Interpreting National Training & Resource Center (DBI) in Western Oregon University’s Research & Resource Center with Deaf* Communities received a $2.1 million dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). The grant supports the DBI’s work to increase the number of qualified Protactile language interpreters with the expertise to […]
Western Oregon University receives $2.1 million to increase support for DeafBlind individuals-The DeafBlind Interpreting National Training & Resource Center (DBI) in Western Oregon University’s Research & Resource Center with Deaf* Communities received a $2.1 million dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). The grant supports the DBI’s work to increase the number of qualified Protactile language interpreters with the expertise to […]
WOU:Salem Campus-Western Oregon University opened the doors to its new Salem campus in the Vick building, at 525 Trade St, after a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, Sept. 20. The ceremony included remarks from Chuck Bennett (mayor of Salem), Jay Kenton (WOU’s interim president), Rex Fuller (former WOU president), Logan Jackson (Associated Students of Western Oregon University […]
Western Oregon University’s Salem campus opens in Vick Building-Western Oregon University (WOU) officially opens its doors to the new WOU:Salem campus in the downtown Vick building (525 Trade St.) with a grand opening ceremony on Monday, Sept. 20 at 10 a.m. “We are delighted to be Oregon’s first public university to have a permanent presence in Salem,” said WOU Interim President Jay […]
Rodrigues Named First Men’s Soccer Coach In Program History-Stanley Rodrigues, having spent multiple years coaching throughout the Western Region, returns back to the Pacific Northwest to become the first-ever head Men’s Soccer coach at Western Oregon University as announced by director of athletics Randi Lydum on Wednesday. “We are excited to have Stan Rodrigues join our staff and begin building our men’s soccer […]
Live Q&A Wrap-up: August 19-Every other Thursday during the summer (and weekly during the rest of the academic year), we hold a live Q&A from 10-11 a.m. on WOU’s Instagram and Facebook accounts. In case you missed it, here are some questions that came up during today’s Q&A. When do textbooks go on sale for fall term? Monday, […]
Spotted on Campus: Filming for TV Segment-CWhat’s on-air personality Nicole DeCosta sat down with ASWOU President Logan Jackson ’22 in the new Welcome Center on Wednesday to film a short television segment. The pair chatted about WOU’s rolling admissions and how it’s not too late for people to apply and enroll at Western for fall term, which begins Sept. 27. DeCosta said […]
Western Oregon University and Willamette University develop program for WOU students to seek a graduate law degree-Western Oregon University (WOU) and Willamette University signed an agreement yesterday to make it easier for WOU students interested in law to pursue a graduate degree at Willamette University College of Law (Willamette Law). This program admits WOU undergraduate students and alumni who meet certain academic credentials to Willamette Law and gives each student […]
Valley Shakespeare Company to Present Shakespeare’s Classic Comedy, Twelfth Night-The Valley Shakespeare Company at Western Oregon University (WOU) will present Twelfth Night (or What You Will), one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies, on the Leinwand outdoor stage at WOU for a limited live audience. Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. nightly July 22-24 and July 29-31. The Friday performances will be interpreted in American […]
Western Oregon University Receives Funding from Legislature for Student Success Center-Western Oregon University will receive $21,615,000 from the state to fund a Student Success Center. Approval came June 24 from the Oregon Legislature. The Student Success Center, which will be located at the center of campus and across from the student union, will serve as a home for several critical campus services. This project […]
Grad Profile: Ruby Van Dyke-Ruby Van Dyke is a 2021 graduate from Santa Rosa, California. Their major is Gerontology: Aging and Older Adulthood. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because it is one of two schools in the Northwest (NorCal to Washington) with a bachelor’s in gerontology, and I love the rain more than anything. […]
Grad Profile: Raynie Ehret-Raynie Ehret is a 2021 graduate from Olympia, Washington. She is a Business major with a concentration in Marketing/Management, plus a minor in Spanish with a certificate in Translating and Interpreting. What has your experience been like as a student in the Honors Program? Yes, I am a part of the Honors Program at […]
Grad Profile: Karina Ortiz Ramirez-Karina Ortiz Ramirez is a 2021 graduate from Salem, Oregon. Her major is Early Childhood/Elementary Education, with a minor in ESOL/Bilingual Education. How has being a Dreamer impacted your journey to and within college? Being a Dreamer impacted my journey to and within college by always giving me the motivation to keep going and […]
Grad Profile: Morgan McLain-Morgan McLain is a 2021 graduate from Roseburg, Oregon. He completed an Elementary Master of Arts in Teaching degree. Are you a transfer student? If so, where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? The eMAT Graduate Program was my first experience at Western Oregon University. The experience that I’ve […]
Grad Profile: Suzanne Duda-Suzanne Duda is a 2021 Master’s Program graduate from Albany, Oregon. She is majoring in Elementary Education. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU for several reasons. First, I was already familiar with WOU, having earned my paralegal certification there, and because I had worked in the Public Relations department for a year. […]
Grad Profile: Reyna K. Aguiar-Reyna K. Aguiar is a 2021 graduate from Lodi, California. She is majoring in Political Science. Why did you choose WOU? I was ready to go back to school, and I was lucky enough to have a mentor who previously worked with the WOU Public Affairs representative, and she encouraged me to speak with […]
Grad Profile: Emily Creasy-Emily Creasy is a 2021 graduate from Gladstone, Oregon. She is a Social Science major with a concentration in Political Science, plus a minor in Psychology. She is also WOU’s Honorary Political Science Student of the Year. What has the experience been like as a transfer student? I transferred from Clackamas Community College. I […]
Grad Profile: Lily Collinsworth-Lily Collinsworth is a 2021 graduate from Keizer, Oregon. She is an English major. What has the experience been like as a transfer student? I transferred from Chemeketa Community College after I earned my AAOT. While it was tough to transition to a university-level workload, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the level […]
Grad Profile: Johnny Harvey-Johnny Harvey is a 2021 graduate from Tualatin, Oregon. He is a Business and Psychology double major with a minor in Sport Management. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because it seemed like the perfect fit for me. I didn’t want to go to a school that was too big and too […]
Grad Profile: Karen Silva-Karen Silva is a 2021 graduate from Rigby, Idaho. She is a Biology major with a Pre-Professional focus. How has being a Dreamer impacted your journey to and within college? Being a Dreamer at times made it challenging to go through college, being a first-gen student and trying to figure a couple things out […]
Grad Profile: Jasmine Altamirano-Jasmine Altamirano is a 2021 graduate from Portland, Ore. She has earned a Master of Science in Education: Curriculum and Instruction, plus a minor in ESOL Education. What has your experience been like as a first-generation student? I feel a lot of pride in saying that I am the first person in my family […]
Grad Profile: Emily Grande-DePriest-Emily Grande-DePriest is a 2021 graduate from Dufur, Oregon. She is an Early Childhood Studies major with a minor in History. Why did you choose WOU? Originally, I wanted to study both education and ASL, and WOU offers both programs. When I changed my major and minor to Early Childhood Studies (ECS) and History, […]
Grad Profile: Elli Manoogian-O’Dell-Elli Manoogian-O’Dell is a 2021 graduate, earning a Master’of Arts in Teaching. She is from Corvallis, Oregon. What has been your most memorable class? I took a class from Professor Wu during fall term that really changed how I feel about teaching. We discussed curriculum, assessment, and classroom management through the lens of racial […]
Grad Profile: Heather Casey-Heather Casey is a 2021 graduate from Kingman, Arizona. She is majoring in ASL/English Interpreting, with a minor in ASL Studies. What has your experience been like as a transfer student? I transferred to WOU from Coconino Community College in Flagstaff, Arizona in 2018. I have absolutely loved my experience at WOU, and I […]
Grad Profile: Erin Worley-Erin Worley is a 2021 graduate from Dallas, Oregon. She is an Integrated English Studies major with a minor in Communication Studies. What has your experience been like as a student in the Honors Program? I have been involved with WOU’s Honors Program since freshman year, and I have really enjoyed my time in […]
Grad Profile: Cheyan Swan-Cheyan Swan is a 2021 graduate from Las Vegas, Nevada. They are a Writing major with a minor in Sociology. What has your experience been like as a student in the Honors Program? I’ve spent four years in the Honors Program. Although it’s admittedly a lot of work, this program has offered me so […]
Grad Profile: Jenny Rooper-Jenny Rooper is a 2021 graduate from Silverton, Oregon. She is a Pre-Med major. What has your experience been like as a student in the Honors Program? Yes, I am an honors student! I’ve really enjoyed the Honors Program here at WOU, especially in comparison to how it’s run at other schools. Though occasionally […]
Grad Profile: N.J. Johnson-N.J. Johnson is a 2021 graduate from Scappoose, Oregon. He is majoring in Public Policy and Administration, with a minor in Organizational Leadership. N.J. has also served as ASWOU President, and he has received the title of Public Policy and Administration Student of the Year. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU for […]
Grad Profile: Juliana Cameron-Juliana Cameron is a 2021 graduate from Marysville, Washington. She is majoring in Business with a focus in Marketing, and her minor is Health. Juliana is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was recognized as the Don Boderman Volunteer of the Year, as well as being an IFC Committee member. […]
Grad Profile: Parker Marson-Parker Marson is a 2021 graduate from Pleasant Hill, California. He is majoring in Exercise Science with two minors in Human Biology and Chemistry. Why did you choose WOU? I chose Western because of the success of the track and field team, and I was sold by how beautiful the campus was. The small […]
Grad Profile: Emily Beck-Emily Beck is a 2021 graduate from Springfield, Oregon. She is majoring in Psychology, with a minor in Health. Emily is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she received the Psychology Peer Advising Leadership Award. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because it was close to home, affordable, […]
Grad Profile: Channing Bushman-Channing Bushman is a 2021 graduate from Morgan Hill, California. She is majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Special Education and Humanities, plus a minor in American Sign Language Studies. She is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was recognized as the Outstanding Residence Hall Association Executive Board Member […]
Grad Profile: Natalie Dean-Natalie Dean is a 2021 graduate from Eugene, Oregon. She is an English major with a concentration in Writing, and she is an award winner for WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was recognized for earning a Leadership Certificate. What has your experience been like as a first-generation student? I was so nervous to […]
Grad Profile: Carlos Fonseca Jr.-Carlos Fonseca Jr. is a 2021 graduate from Klamath Falls, Oregon. He is a double major in Exercise Science and Physical Education Teacher Education. Carlos is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where he was given a Distinguished Student Leader award, the Arbor Park and Barnum Resident Assistant of the Year award, […]
Grad Profile: Leslie Rincon-Leslie Rincon is a 2021 graduate from Monmouth, Oregon. Her major is in Early Childhood Studies (ECS). What has the experience been like as a transfer student? I transferred from Chemeketa. I earned my degree in Early Childhood Education and my Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (AAOT). It was really easy to transfer over […]
Grad Profile: Cole Hendren-Cole Hendren is a 2021 graduate from Banks, Oregon. He is a Psychology major with a double minor in Organizational Leadership and Communications. Cole is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where he was given a Psychology Peer Advising Leadership Award. Why did you choose WOU? Honestly, as corny as it […]
Grad Profile: Katelyn Hernandez-Katelyn Hernandez is a 2021 graduate from Philomath, Oregon. She has a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice and is currently earning a Masters of Art in Criminal Justice, along with a minor in Youth Crime Studies. Where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? I was a transfer student […]
Grad Profile: Nick Cabacungan-Nick Cabacungan is a 2021 graduate from Honolulu, Hawaii. He is a Biology major with a concentration in Pre-Professional Studies, plus a minor in Chemistry. What has been your most memorable class? The most memorable class has to be Physics with Dr. Schoenfeld. Although his class was tough, he has taught me how to […]
Grad Profile: Antonia Scholerman-Antonia Scholerman is a 2021 graduate from Bend, Ore. She is a History major with a minor in Art History. Antonia is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was recognized with a Distinguished Student Leader award. What has been your favorite annual event at WOU? The Holiday Tree Lighting […]
Grad Profile: Jeanette A. Betancourt Garcia-Jeanette A. Betancourt Garcia is a 2021 graduate from Independence, Ore. She is an Education major with a minor in Bilingual Education/ESOL Endorsement. What has your experience been like as a first-generation student? My experience has been challenging throughout the years, since I am the second one in my family to attend college. My […]
Grad Profile: Alondra M. Bocanegra Guerrero-Alondra M. Bocanegra Guerrero is a 2021 graduate from Independence, Oregon. She is an Early Childhood/Elementary Education major, with a minor in English to Speakers of Other Languages. What has your experience been like as a first-generation student? It has definitely been beyond challenging to navigate through this process all by myself, but I […]
Grad Profile: Brian Ulbricht-Brian Ulbricht is a 2021 graduate from Seaside, Oregon who majored in Public Policy and Administration. Where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? I am a transfer student; I completed my associate’s degree in General Studies from Central Texas College while I was serving on active duty in the […]
Grad Profile: Lily Gallagher-Lily Gallagher is a 2021 graduate from Independence, Oregon. She is a Psychology major with a minor in Gender Studies, and she is an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was given the Abby’s House Social Justice Award. What has the experience been like as a transfer student? Yes! I transferred […]
Western Oregon University Celebrates Passage of Bill Allowing Professional Doctoral Degrees-Oregon Gov. Kate Brown’s recent signature on SB 230 allows the state’s three regional public universities to offer professional doctoral degrees and aids Western Oregon University’s goal of offering doctoral degrees in high-demand, high-paying fields. The law takes effect Jan. 1, 2022. Since 1997, when the three regional colleges were redefined as comprehensive universities, […]
Grad Profile: Trani Rae Morton-Trani Rae Morton is a 2021 graduate from Chino Hills, California. She is a double major in American Sign Language/English Interpreting and ASL Studies. What has been your most memorable class? I really can’t name just one. I love all of my teachers and the staff interpreters at WOU. If one [specifically] was life […]
Grad Profile: Danielle Cramer-Danielle Cramer is a 2021 graduate from Keizer, Oregon. She’s graduating with an Elementary Master of Arts in Teaching, along with a minor in ESOL Endorsement. What has been your most memorable class? My most memorable class during my eMAT program was 615: Critical Inquiry into the Foundational Narratives of Schooling with Dr. Dana […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Appoints Interim President, Approves Standing Diversity Committee-The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees on Wednesday approved the appointment of Jay Kenton as interim president for 2021-22. It also approved the creation of a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, the first standing committee of its kind at an Oregon public university. Kenton’s nomination for interim president had been reviewed June 1 […]
WOU Board Selects Dr. Jay Kenton as Interim President-Western Oregon University welcomes Dr. Jay Kenton as its interim president, beginning July 1 and is expected to stay in the position until a national search for a president concludes at the end of the 2021-22 academic year. Kenton is an experienced higher education leader in Oregon who has supported several public universities during his […]
WOU Board Adds Permanent Committee on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion-Western Oregon University’s Board of Trustees voted to create a new board committee called the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee (DEIC). WOU’s board is the first among Oregon’s public universities to create a permanent committee on diversity, equity and inclusion. The creation of this committee supports the ongoing and long-term proactive work that has been […]
Lydum Named Director of Athletics-Having served as the interim Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics for Western Oregon University for the past year, Randi Lydum has been named to the permanent role following a national search. Lydum, a graduate of Western Oregon State College, returned to her alma mater in 2012 to take on the role of Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance/SWA. […]
Grad Profile: Amber Gray-Amber Gray is a 2021 graduate from the Oregon coast who is completing a degree in Psychology major with a minor in Health. Where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? I am a transfer student that came over to WOU from Chemeketa Community College in 2019. While at Chemeketa, […]
Math Major Riley Lamont Accepted Into a Fully-Funded Grad Program-This year, five WOU seniors from the Mathematics department were accepted into fully-funded graduate programs–a historic number. One of these 2021 grads is Lily Lamont from Albany, Oregon. She is a Mathematics major with a minor in Spanish. Why did you choose mathematics at WOU? Smaller classes and the campus itself! What was […]
Grad Profile: Kaeli Hancock-Kaeli Hancock is a 2021 graduate from Prineville, Oregon. Their major is Bachelor of Fine Arts in Production Training with a concentration in Stage Management. What has been your most memorable class? My most memorable class has definitely been History of Architecture and Decor with Scott Grim. We created our own handwritten textbooks with […]
Grad Profile: Julz Mudge-Julz Mudge is a 2021 graduate from Des Moines, Wash. She is a Performing Arts major with a double minor in Psychology and Communications. Why did you choose WOU? WOU was the first college I ever toured, and despite numerous other college visits, I always came back to WOU. There was something about it […]
The Why I Love WOU Grand Prize Winner is…-We’re thrilled to announce that the 2021 Why I Love WOU video contest grand prize winner is Amanda Anderson! Anderson, an incoming international student from Jamaica, will join WOU in the fall and plans to major in Art & Design. When asked how the $4,000 scholarship will help with Anderson’s educational goals, she said, […]
Grad Profile: Adam Schaeffer-Adam Schaeffer is a 2021 graduate from Ballwin, Missouri. He’s completing a Master’s of Education with a major in Educational Technology, plus a graduate certificate in Instructional Design. Why did you choose WOU? WOU was local, online, affordable, and had the exact degree I was looking for! Do you have any advice for […]
Grad Profile: Lauren Gerig-Lauren Gerig is a 2021 graduate from Canby, Oregon. She is majoring in Exercise Science with a minor in Human Biology. Lauren is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was recognized for earning a Leadership Certificate. What has been your most memorable class? The Anatomy and Physiology sequence was […]
Western Oregon University announces plan to require COVID-19 vaccine for fall 2020-MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University (WOU) announced today that in preparation for a predominantly in-person fall 2021, COVID-19 vaccinations will be required for students and employees who study or work in person at either the Monmouth or Salem campuses. The vaccine requirement, among other efforts, was announced earlier today to current students in […]
Why I Love WOU Finalists Announced; Grand Prize Voting Now Open-In recent weeks, students worked hard to create videos sharing stories of why they love WOU. Those videos were submitted and scored by volunteer judges. We’ve tabulated those scores and identified the 10 finalists. Congratulations to Alexis Praudins, Amanda Anderson, Angel Cruz, Cheyanne Bumgardner, Jayda Crawford, Kayley Arpaia, Kenzie Moore, Kourtney Branchfield, Piper Matson, and […]
Fall 2021 Admissions are Still Open: Is WOU Right for You?-It’s not too late to apply for WOU! Unlike many other colleges, Western Oregon University is open to applications and registration up until the start of Fall Term every year. WOU strives to make higher education accessible, and part of that process is allowing leeway in regard to students’ individual struggles and obstacles. WOU […]
COVID-19 Vaccines Available on Campus-It’s Go Time! We’ve received notification from Polk County Health that the vaccination clinic in the Pacific Room of the WUC has lots of vaccines available to anyone 18 and older who wants one. They currently are giving Pfizer vaccines, but if you’ve already gotten a first Moderna shot, they can get you that second […]
WOU Faculty Help Create Improved Willamette Promise Spanish Proficiency Exam-This past year, WOU faculty Dr. Patricia Gimenez-Eguibar and Dr. Claudia Costagliola have collaborated with the Willamette Promise team to create a more easily accessible and diverse Spanish proficiency exam to reward potential WOU students with Spanish credits. Their primary goals and following achievements were centered on designing a secure online assessment—given our current virtual […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees approves 2.17% tuition increase, diversity statement, new certificates-The Western Oregon University (WOU) Board of Trustees on Wednesday approved a 2.17% increase in resident undergraduate tuition for the 2021-22 academic year, a decision that confirms WOU’s commitment to affordability for Oregon students. The 2.17% increase is the smallest among all seven public Oregon universities with the exception of Easter Oregon University. The […]
A Message of Support-Dear campus community, George Floyd’s senseless death last summer shook communities, including WOU, to their core. And this week, many of us are anxious about the impending trial verdict. Regardless of the outcome, we want to confirm WOU’s values will not waiver. Black lives matter. They always have mattered and always will. George Floyd’s life mattered. […]
WOU Student and Sociology Professor Co-Write Peer Reviewed Paper-Recently, we had the opportunity to speak with student Quentin Kanta ‘23 about a peer-reviewed paper he co-wrote with visiting assistant professor in the Sociology Department, Dr. Evan Shenkin. Soon, the paper will be published in the United Nations Encyclopedia of Sustainable Development. Kanta, a Political Science major and Social Science minor from Grants Pass, […]
WOU Introduces the Accelerated Undergraduate to Master’s Pathway-Beginning fall 2021, WOU is opening up a new avenue of opportunity to prospective master’s degree students. The Accelerated Undergraduate to Master’s Pathway (AUMP) allows current WOU seniors to complete both undergraduate and graduate credits at once, with a long-term potential of receiving their master’s degree early. Seniors can take up to 16 credits that […]
Dana Schowalter: Falls City Pop-Up Soup Kitchen-During the February ice storm and subsequent power outages in local areas, Dr. Dana Schowalter helped create a pop-up soup kitchen in the Falls City Community Center. Her collaborators were WOU alumni Lynn Bailey and TJ Bailey, WOU student parent Amy Houghtaling, as well as Jami Kidd and Donna Creekmore. For two days while serving […]
Commencement 2021 Update-Dear 2021 grads, We appreciate your patience as we’ve worked hard to make plans for our Commencement celebration in June. Thank you to all 2021 grads who responded to our survey about Commencement. From the survey results, it was very clear that an overwhelming majority of grads want three things from the Commencement celebration: 1) […]
Graduation Checklist: What Grads Need to Do as We Approach Commencement-As we get closer and closer to June 12, 2021, graduates need to start checking to ensure they have taken all necessary steps to be eligible and ready for commencement. Here’s a quick checklist of things to consider. APPLY TO GRADUATE: If you haven’t already done so, apply for graduation as soon as possible. It […]
Statement from Provost Winningham on Violence Against Asian American and Pacific Islander Communities-Sent from Provost Rob Winningham to employees on March 18 Dear Colleagues, Academic Affairs leadership unequivocally condemns the violence perpetrated against the Asian American community in Atlanta. We recognize that this recent violence is not isolated, but rather another example of the violence and aggression perpetrated regularly, and increasingly in the past year, against […]
How to Set Up a Great Virtual Interview Space-As a continuation of our grad series, we wanted to offer some tips to soon-to-be grads who might have upcoming interviews. With the COVID-19 pandemic, you might end up having virtual interviews, which look a little different than in-person ones. Here’s what you need for a phenomenal virtual interview. Good lighting One of the most […]
WOU’s Giving Day Raises Over $175,000-On March 2, 2021, WOU celebrated its annual Giving Day, a day dedicated to raising funds for student scholarships and programs. Students, faculty and staff, and the larger WOU community gathered together to show their support of WOU students and programs. This year, the university was able to raise over $175,000, far exceeding the original […]
Training for Racial Healing and Understanding: A WOU-Led Local Initiative-Dr. Jaclyn Caires-Hurley, a WOU assistant professor in the Department of Education & Leadership, and Dr. Greg Willeford, a WOU Criminal Justice professor, recently created a training program titled Racial Healing and Understanding, following important and sensitive American events regarding racism in 2020. The training is designed for local communities, businesses, and administrators in the […]
What’s the Big Deal with Résumés and Cover Letters?-As a continuation of our graduate series, we’re compiling tips, tricks, and advice on drafting the perfect résumé and cover letter. We’ll discuss what they’re for, why they’re important, and how to impress any employer with your resume and cover letter design. What’s the difference between a résumé and a cover letter? A résumé and […]
How to Use LinkedIn-Article photograph courtesy of LinkedIn As we begin to approach the end of the school year, soon-to-be graduates might be starting to fret over what comes after college. What does life look like after graduation? How do you get a job? How to polish a résumé? What’s the deal with cover letters? As part of […]
MLK Video Contest: Aiyanna Suazo-Aiyanna Suazo is the first place winner of this year’s MLK Video Contest at WOU. She is a first year student and is majoring in Higher/Middle Education. Why do you see Dr. King as an important leader, even today? He’s influential to people all over the world. He led a huge civil rights movement. […]
Western Oregon University Announces Intention for In-Person Fall Term-Western Oregon University looks forward to having the campus community Together Again for an in-person fall term following state safety protocols. WOU expects to offer an expanded range of course delivery options so that students can make the best choices for them. “We are all looking with renewed hope for fall term 2021 to be […]
An Announcement from President Fuller about Fall Term-Dear campus community, I am pleased to announce that Western Oregon University looks forward to having the campus community Together Again for an in-person fall term. We expect to offer an expanded range of course delivery options so that students, faculty, and staff can make the best choices. Masks and social distancing will likely still be necessary, […]
Giving Day from Students’ Perspectives-Today, WOU is celebrating our annual Giving Day, a day dedicated to raising funds for the university. On this day, the WOU community gathers together to support WOU students, staff, and faculty in the form of financial contributions. I have been lucky enough to participate in the past two Giving Days, and I will be […]
It’s Giving Day!-Today is our annual Giving Day, and we hope you’ll join us by Howling from the Heart wherever you are. Giving Day is Western Oregon University’s most impactful annual tradition that celebrates the power of the Wolves community and what we can do when we come together. We invite you to join alumni, friends, family, […]
WOU Student Adam Dryden Selected PAVE Team Leader of the Month- WOU student Adam Dryden was selected as the January Team Leader of the Month for Peer Advisors for Veteran Education (PAVE). Dryden, who will be graduating this year, is an Exercise Science major from Salem, with a minor in Health Education. We spoke to Dryden about his wonderful honor, as well as how he […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Lauds Affordability, Accessibility Advancement in Quarterly Meeting-The Western Oregon University (WOU) Board of Trustees on Wednesday learned of a number of new academic offerings and heard a report from President Rex Fuller about accessibility and affordability at WOU. Since 2017, the university has made strategic changes to offer to become the most affordable public university in Oregon for resident undergraduates. […]
Howl from the Heart: Isaiah Abraham-Giving Day 2021 is just around the corner (March 2!), and we’re hoping you’ll join us in supporting WOU students’ success. During 2020, each of us has adapted, adjusted and created new realities for ourselves; Western Oregon University was no different. As we plan for the future, we look to the Wolves family to help […]
Howl from the Heart: Nichole Hernandez-Giving Day 2021 is just around the corner (March 2!), and we’re hoping you’ll join us in supporting WOU students’ success. During 2020, each of us has adapted, adjusted and created new realities for ourselves; Western Oregon University was no different. As we plan for the future, we look to the Wolves family to help […]
Howl from the Heart: Dr. Patricia Flatt-Giving Day 2021 is just around the corner (March 2!), and we’re hoping you’ll join us in supporting WOU students’ success. During 2020, each of us has adapted, adjusted and created new realities for ourselves; Western Oregon University was no different. As we plan for the future, we look to the Wolves family to help […]
Why I Chose WOU: Jessica Garibay Ochoa-We spoke with Jessica Garibay Ochoa ’24, from Salem, Oregon, about why she chose WOU. She’s currently a Pre-Nursing student, but is considering majoring in Community Health and minoring in Psychology. Garibay Ochoa shared her journey to WOU, and how her first year has been so far. What was your college selection process like? […]
Student Q&A: Kayley Arpaia-Kayley Arpaia is an active and notable member of WOU’s campus community. She’s a third year Biology major with an emphasis in Zoology, and she is working toward a double minor in ASL and Social Sciences. Why did you choose WOU? I originally chose WOU because I wanted to become an ASL/English Interpreter. I […]
Hamersly Library Amenities-Hamersly Library is packed full of amenities to help students study, research, and create projects. There are a multitude of books to check out, shelved on all three floors, ranging from fiction to textbooks. If a student requires aid searching for resources, they can ask friendly staff, typically at the front desk. Citation guides and […]
Susan Castillo’s Thoughts On WOU-We had the opportunity to talk with Susan Castillo about WOU. She’s a retired vice president of Project Lead The Way, the first Hispanic woman to serve in the Oregon Legislature and a current member of our Board of Trustees. As the granddaughter of Mexican immigrants and the daughter of a mother with only an […]
Student Q&A: Madi Knox-Madi Knox is a third-year student at WOU and an active part of our campus community. She is majoring in Early Childhood/Elementary Education, with a minor in Theatre Arts. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I am from a really small town, so when I came to campus and saw how […]
WOU Secures Grant to Advance Computer Science Education-WOU’s Dr. Lucas Cordova, assistant professor of Computer Science, has acquired a phenomenal grant that benefits WOU employees and students. The grant, a Tier 2 NSF grant that runs to October 2023, is titled “Collaborative Research: Testing Tutor – An Inquiry-Based Pedagogy and Supporting Tool to Improve Student Learning of Software Testing Concepts.” The grant’s […]
Why I Chose WOU: Students Share Their Journeys to WOU-The college selection process can be pretty daunting, especially during this time. It’s a difficult decision to make, but thankfully there’s always individuals who are happy to share their experiences. We spoke to WOU students about their college selection process, and their experience at WOU, so far. One Student featured is Hannah Young, a Public […]
Student Q&A: Cheyanne Bumgardner-Cheyanne Bumgardner is a WOU junior and an active part of the campus community. She is an American Sign Language/English Interpreting major with a minor in Psychology. Why did you choose WOU? I chose to attend Western because of the ASL/English Interpreting major and leadership opportunities. I knew that I would gain a great […]
A Message from President Fuller About Spring Term-Dear campus community, In our continued effort to keep you updated on the university’s plans for course delivery, we are sharing that spring term courses will also be delivered mainly remotely in a manner similar to fall and winter terms. We had hoped to be able to offer more in-person classes for spring, but the COVID-19 metrics […]
Western Oregon University announces nearly all spring courses to be online-Western Oregon University (WOU) has announced that spring term classes at both the Monmouth campus and WOU:Salem will continue as mostly online, in an effort to “Embrace the Now.” As with fall and winter terms, only a small number of arts and science lab-based courses will be offered in person, while following social distancing protocols. […]
Choir Changes Due to COVID-19-COVID-19 has, unfortunately, affected the way many of us go about our daily lives. From the switch to online distance learning to the avoidance of social gatherings, the pandemic has changed the world. However, one thing the pandemic has been unable to change is the indomitable spirit of WOU. WOU faculty, staff, and students are […]
Get Moving! How to Safely Exercise During Winter Term-With the dreary weather and online classes of winter term, it can be easy to forgo exercise, fresh air, and moving around. However, WOU has some phenomenal resources available for students, including Campus Recreation. Here’s some information regarding the HWC, fitness classes, and how to get moving on your own. While the HWC’s facilities are […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Committee Takes Steps Toward Search for Interim President-The Western Oregon University (WOU) Board of Trustees Executive, Governance and Trusteeship Committee (EGTC) on Thursday met to consider language for a new presidential search policy. As part of the discussion, the group affirmed its intention, pending full board approval, to search for an interim president to replace retiring President Rex Fuller. The committee […]
2021 MLK Celebration Week-On January 18, WOU will kick off its 14th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration week, packed with panels and activities. This year, our celebration is inspired by Dr. King’s speech at the Southern Methodist University on March 17th, 1966. As he stated then, “We have come a long, long way but we still […]
WOU Students and Employees Doing COVID-19 Outreach-The WOU Community Health + Polk County COVID-19 Project members were busy in December. They participated in several outreach activities to promote COVID-19 prevention and health and wellbeing for families in Polk County. They supported COVID-19 testing events at the Polk County Fair Grounds and packed 800 family COVID-19 thrive kits that were delivered […]
Explore Graduate Oppurtunites at Western Oregon University-As we get closer to 2021 commencement, some students might be considering pursuing their education further, and, thankfully, WOU offers some phenomenal graduate programs. From MAT programs to a Masters in Contemporary Music, WOU has something for everyone. It is important to note that some graduate programs only specify the necessity of a bachelor’s degree, […]
Celebrating the First Day of Winter Term-Welcome to new Wolves joining us for fall term, and congratulations to all the Wolves entering your last term before graduating. Join us in celebrating the first day of winter term by sharing one of our “1st day of school” signs. We have a variety of printable signs for selfies or square social media graphics […]
Western Oregon University Has The Oldest Building Among Oregon’s Public Universities-Campbell Hall stands squarely in the center of Western Oregon University’s campus. It’s endured a fierce storm, economic downturns, overcrowding and more. It stands as a symbol of the commitment of pioneers past and present to provide a high-quality education for students. Timeline: The university’s second president, Thomas Franklin Campbell raised the funds for the […]
Wolfie Emoji Now Available-Are you looking for a way to add a bit more WOU spirit to your social media and texting? We have a brand new set of Wolfie emoji for you! You can download the emoji as images or GIFs to add to your texts and more. They’re also available for use on Instagram stories. Just […]
Spanish Degrees and Certificates Open Up Career Options-Western Oregon University’s Spanish Department has three new certificates to help WOU students gain a competitive edge in the job market. The certificates are in Spanish-English Interpretation and Translation, Bilingual/Biliteracy and Social Justice and Service Learning (Bilingual). In addition to these certificate program’s, students can major in Spanish or Spanish Education, and minor in Spanish, […]
Student Contact Tracers Gain Professional Skills While Aiding Polk County-[This story is a follow-up piece to “WOU Students are Training to Be Contact Tracers”] In the initial months of the pandemic, WOU faculty collaborated with Polk County Public Health to create a student-led COVID-19 contact tracing initiative. The group was gathered, trained, and instructed by Assistant Professors of Community Health Megan Patton-Lopez and […]
New Criminal Justice Major in 2021: Cybersecurity-Beginning fall term 2021, WOU’s Criminal Justice Sciences Division will have a new major, a Bachelor of Science in Cybercrime Investigation and Enforcement, also known as Cybersecurity. The major will require 72 total credits, which are broken down into four main groups: criminal justice, cybercrime investigation and enforcement, information systems, and electives. The mission of this […]
What’s Open Over Winter Break?-Are you looking to get some campus business done over winter break? Here’s a quick guide for what is open, what’s closed, and what students need to do if they plan to stay on campus. Please note that some departments’ hours and availability may change based on government restrictions. Check the websites of each department […]
Prospective Students: What To Do Over Winter Break-Winter break is a great time to get work done on college applications, scholarship essays, and other college related things on your to-do list. Prospective students can take advantage of this time to get ready to head to WOU in an upcoming term. Here are some things to consider completing during the break. Apply […]
Finding and Applying for On-Campus Jobs-[Co-written by Cheyan Swan and Erin Worley] WOU offers many opportunities for student employment on-campus within a variety of different organizations. There are a multitude of options even during quarantine, as many departments have temporarily moved online. Whatever your qualifications and preferences are, there’s sure to be a job for you. Here’s some helpful […]
WOU Students Brighten Residents’ Days at Emerald Pointe Senior Living Community-WOU students are dedicated to making a difference in their communities. This summer, as part of a community service project, four students committed to brightening the days of residents of Emerald Pointe Senior Living Community in Keizer. The four students, Hannah Childress, Derek Holdsworth, Keyna Hurd, and Sheyenne White, sent letters and flowers to the residents, […]
Anderson’s Message: “What You Tolerate, You Encourage”-Story by Blake Timm, Great Northwest Athletic Conference MONMOUTH, Ore. – On that morning in early June, Curtis Anderson couldn’t contain his emotions. Anderson called his mother and just started yelling. Normally an even-tempered person, the emotions that morning were raw and racing. Like water through a breached dam, he couldn’t hold back. “I was so angry […]
Tips for Creating a Productive Testing Environment at Home-Even though it seems impossible, the end of the term is quickly approaching. With fall term being 95% online, it’s highly likely that you’ll have at least a couple tests to take from home throughout the term. We’ve compiled a few tips and tricks to help create a productive testing environment within your own space. […]
How to Stay Motivated as the Days Get Darker-With the fall time change, the sun sets considerably earlier, and we have lost a lot of daytime brightness. Unfortunately, as we head into winter, the days will only get shorter, and these dark, gloomy skies will stick around. For a lot of students, this darkness can lead them to feel unmotivated, unproductive, and unenthusiastic. […]
Alfred P. Maurice Online Art Sale-This is a companion piece to “Art for Innovation.” The Alfred P. Maurice Art Sale is conducted by Western Oregon University in honor of the late Alfred Maurice, an avid art collector, an artist in his own right, and a friend and benefactor to our campus community. Since 2011, WOU students have participated […]
Headed Home? How to Safely Travel This Week-After Thanksgiving, all in-person WOU classes will be changed to an online format. Because of this, many students may be traveling home this week, for both Thanksgiving and winter break. Obviously, the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected this year’s traveling plans, especially now, around the holidays. Here are some things to know if you must […]
Weekly Live Q&A Summary: November 19, 2020-Here is a round-up of some of the questions and answers from our November 19 live Q&A. We hold the weekly live Q&A every Thursday from 10-11 a.m. on WOU’s Facebook and Instagram accounts. Will WOU be offering COVID tests for students going home for break? For students who live on campus, Housing is […]
WOU’s 53rd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Goes Virtual-A WOU tradition goes virtual! WOU’s 53rd annual Holiday Tree Lighting will be live broadcast this year on Friday, Nov. 20, at 6 p.m. Festivities include remarks from mayors of both Monmouth and Independence, words from WOU President Rex Fuller, an essay read by a winning local elementary student, and appearances by Santa and Mrs. […]
Western Oregon University board approves revised FY21 budget-The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees on Wednesday approved the adjusted fiscal year 2021 budget, which required an update based on actual enrollment numbers for fall 2020. The previous FY21 budget, initially adopted at the board’s June meeting, had been based on a projected enrollment decrease of 2.5%. However, because of the COVID-19 […]
New Faculty Q&A: Leanne Cusack-Dr. Leanne Cusack is a new WOU Health and Exercise Science assistant professor. She’s attended University of Waterloo (Canada) and Oregon State University, and she’s been teaching at a university level for about 10 years. This term, she is teaching Epidemiology and Infectious Disease/Injury Prevention. Cuasack’s office can be found at RWEC 237. Why […]
Winter Registration: What Students Need to Know-Registration for winter term opens today! With WOU classes continuing to be conducted primarily online through winter term, registration looks different than years past. There are some important things that students need to be aware of. Here’s what you need to know: All students should have received an email with their registration date and time. […]
GNAC Announces Plans For 2021 Basketball Season-Originally posted on WOUwolves.com. The Great Northwest Athletic Conference announced Friday that it plans to move forward with modified conference-only men’s and women’s basketball schedules beginning in January. Four teams – Alaska Fairbanks, Northwest Nazarene, Saint Martin’s and Seattle Pacific – have indicated that they will participate in the 2021 season. Six institutions have decided […]
WOU Supports Students Studying in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling with $2 Million in Grants-As a child of Afghanistan immigrants and the only Deaf person in her family, Durkhanai Haque knew she wanted to work with diverse Deaf or hard of hearing international communities. It was her father’s work as a respected radiologist in their small Georgia town, and the community’s acceptance of him, that inspired her to seek […]
Western Oregon University receives $1 million grant to support rehabilitation and mental health counseling-Western Oregon University’s (WOU) Research and Resource Center with Deaf* communities (RRCD) has received a $1 million grant from the federal Rehabilitation Service Administration (RSA). This grant supports WOU’s Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling (RMHC) program, which trains people to facilitate employment, independent living, community integration and more for individuals who are Deaf or have […]
New Faculty Q & A: Mary Layne Harrell, Assistant Professor of Chemistry-As part of our ongoing new faculty feature series, we spoke with Mary Layne Harrell, Assistant Professor of Chemistry. We asked Harrell about fall term classes, adventures outside of WOU, and the joys of chemistry. Why did you choose WOU? When I interviewed, I got the sense that the school cares a lot about teaching […]
New Faculty Q&A: Yuliana Kenfield-Dr. Yuliana Kenfield is a new WOU Education and Leadership assistant professor, who is teaching two classes this term: ED 446 Environments for Diverse Learners and ED 352 Social Studies Teaching Methods. She has attended Universidad Nacional San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Universidad Antonio de Nebrija, and University of New Mexico, and she has been […]
Upcoming Fall 2020 Admissions Events-For the latest schedule of Admissions events, visit their website. Although the 2020-21 school year looks a little different than those of the past, prospective WOU students and their parents can still attend a plethora of great events hosted by WOU’s Admissions Office. All events will be held virtually over Zoom, and registration is required […]
5 Ways to Celebrate Halloween Virtually-Everything looks different this academic year, including the holidays. If you’re a huge Halloween fan such as myself, you may be lost on how to celebrate safely. Luckily, through WOU and some outside sources, having a fun, virtual Halloween is possible! Our first option is for students currently living in the residence halls: Res […]
New Faculty Q&A: Lin Wu-Dr. Lin Wu is a new assistant professor for the Education and Leadership department. Wu has spent seven years teaching in K-12 and four years teaching in higher education. Wu graduated from the University of Washington and is currently instructing two classes at WOU: ED 418 Assessment, Planning, and Instruction; as well as ED 623 […]
Admissions Application Fee Waived for Freshmen and Transfer Students-Applying to Western Oregon University is now easier than ever with new admissions policy changes. There is no application fee for freshman and transfer students until Sept. 1, 2021. Also, high school seniors and transfer students can self-report their cumulative grade point average when completing their admissions application. “Western Oregon University recognizes that students […]
Western Oregon University waives admission application fee for freshmen and transfer students-Western Oregon University (WOU) has announced several admissions policy changes, effective immediately. There is no application fee for freshman and transfer students until Sept. 1, 2021. Also, high school seniors and transfer students can self-report their cumulative grade point average when completing their admissions application. “Western Oregon University recognizes that students are facing challenges […]
Juvenile Justice Week Begins October 19-The Criminal Justices Sciences Division is sponsoring Juvenile Justice Week, beginning October 19, with three events happening online. Lived Experiences in the Juvenile Justice System panel discussion Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2020 from 6-8pm Register to reserve your space. The panelists: Catherine Jones is an advocate with the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth. She […]
WOU announces new trustees confirmed to the board- The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees welcomes new members Susan Castillo, Leah Mitchell, Dr. David Foster (faculty) and Danielle Campbell (student), as well as a second term for Malissa Larson (staff). “The board is excited to work with our new members and looks forward to having their voices join our important conversations as […]
Nearly All Winter Term Courses to be Online-With advising for winter term beginning and looking at the community health statistics related to COVID-19, WOU will continue with mostly remote and online course delivery for winter term. This decision comes after multiple conversations at the WOU Reopening Taskforce and utilizing a dashboard of epidemiological trends that we have been tracking since summer. We […]
Western Oregon University announces nearly all winter courses to be online-Western Oregon University (WOU) has announced that winter term classes at both the Monmouth campus and WOU:Salem will continue as mostly online, in an effort to “Embrace the Now.” As with fall term, only a small number of arts and science lab-based courses will be offered in person, while following social distancing protocols. “As […]
New Faculty Q & A: Jay Schwartz-This is the first in a series featuring new WOU faculty members. We spoke with Jay Schwartz, assistant professor of psychological science. We asked him about his road to WOU, information about the classes he’s teaching this term, and what he likes to do when he’s not working. Check out his answers below. Why did […]
WOU President Rex Fuller Announces Retirement Plans-Western Oregon University (WOU) President Rex Fuller has announced his retirement, effective at the end of his current four-year contract on Sept. 30, 2021. A national search will be conducted for WOU’s next president, and details about that process will be announced once they are finalized. “It has been an honor and a privilege […]
WOU Welcomes New Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, Dr. Hillary Fouts-This summer, WOU welcomed a new dean of graduate studies and research, Dr. Hillary Fouts. As the new dean, she oversees the Sponsored Projects office, research centers and grant work, as well as Graduate Studies. Prior to joining WOU, Fouts worked at the University of Tennessee as a professor in the Department of Child and […]
Live Q&A Summary: Oct. 1-This is a summary of our Oct. 1, 2020 live Q&A session. We host these live Q&A’s for current students, incoming students and family members on WOU’s Instagram and Facebook accounts every Thursday at 10 a.m. The next session is Thursday, Oct. 8. How soon will a decision be made on winter term being online? Will it affect […]
Celebrating the First Day of School-Join us in celebrating the first day of fall term by sharing one of our “1st day of school” signs. We have a variety of printable signs for selfies or square social media graphics for you to share. Whether it’s your last first day, first day of your sophomore/junior/senior/grad year, or first day at WOU […]
Considering Interdisciplinary Studies? Here’s What You Need to Know-For some students, their desired career path or interests don’t fit in a specific major. Because of this, students may end up taking classes that they do not necessarily need or enjoy. Luckily, WOU has the answer. Students searching to customize their major can look into the Interdisciplinary Studies program, which allows more personalization to […]
Live Q&A Summary: Sept. 10-This is a summary of our Sept. 10, 2020 live Q&A session. We host these live Q&A’s for current students, incoming students and family members on WOU’s Instagram and Facebook accounts every other Thursday at 10 a.m. The next session is Thursday, Sept. 24. When will tuition and fees be in Wolfweb? The tuition and fee […]
WOU’s Rian Gayle Strives to Increase Accessibility at Black Lives Matter Protests-Rian Gayle, who serves as the assistant director of access and inclusion in WOU’s Office of Disability Services, has been involved with the Black Lives Matter protests across Oregon. Gayle, who is originally from Jamaica and is Deaf, has both presented and served as an interpreter at the protests, and has been an advocate for […]
A Letter from ASWOU President N.J. Johnson to Students-Hello, My name is N.J. Johnson, and I have been working as your student body president since I was inaugurated in June. I wanted to reach out in case you were still on the fence about registering for classes in fall 2020. Last spring, our entire campus had to unexpectedly shift the way we do […]
Live Q&A Summary: Aug. 27-This is a summary of our Aug. 27, 2020 live Q&A session and the Sept. 1 town hall. We host these live Q&A’s for current students, incoming students and family members on WOU’s Instagram and Facebook accounts every other Thursday at 10 a.m. The next session is Thursday, Sept. 10. What facilities and student services will […]
Creating a Schedule (and Sticking to It!)-As you now know, WOU will be conducting classes 95% online for the upcoming fall term. Some creative arts classes and lab portions of some courses will be meeting in person, with appropriate physical distancing and safety measures in place. What this means is that, for the majority of students, fall term will be entirely […]
Connecting with Professors and Classmates Online-With classes being conducted online this upcoming fall term, it can be difficult to build relationships with professors and peers. Without face-to-face, weekly interaction, it’s so easy to forgo making connections, and just work on your own. However, solid relationships with professors and peers are the foundation of a successful college experience. Having a rapport […]
Alumni Profile: Jordawn Jones-As part of our ongoing alumni feature series, we spoke with 2014 graduate, Jordawn Jones, who majored in Exercise Science with a minor in Human Biology. Jones is now working as the Head Athletic Trainer and adjunct faculty at Sierra Nevada University. Why did you choose WOU? I planned to attend WOU to play basketball […]
WOU Alumnus Police Lieutenant Shines in TikTok Videos-Sitting at a table, Western Oregon University alumnus Albany Police Lt. Curtis Hyde ’93 is reviewing paperwork when a colleague walks up to him and then uses a Clorox wipe to clean his bald head. Hyde gives his colleague a quizzical glance while another colleague stifles his laughter. Hyde and his two colleagues joined others […]
Alumni Profile: Casey Brown-As part of a new feature series, we are catching up with WOU alumni to see where life has led them after graduation. Next up is Casey Brown ’20, from Independence, Oregon. Since graduation, Casey has been working as a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual, and as a supervisor at Little Caesars on the weekends. […]
Alumni Profile: Curtis Holbert-Curtis Holbert graduated from WOU in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in History and a minor in Writing. Holbert is from Burns, Oregon, but currently works as a Title Examiner in Redmond, Oregon. What is your current position? Title Examiner. I research deed records, as well as other public record items to issue reports […]
Western Oregon University Announces Nearly all Fall Courses to be Online-Western Oregon University President Rex Fuller announced today that in an effort to “Embrace the Now” about 95% of fall courses will be delivered online at both the Monmouth campus and WOU:Salem. Previously, the university had planned a mix of in-person, hybrid and online offerings. “We’ve seen in the news that universities that have opened […]
WOU’s Updated Plans for Fall 2020-Dear Wolves, Throughout our communications about what WOU will look like this fall, we’ve promised to update you with changes. After holding out hope that the status around COVID-19 would improve to a level that would allow us to safely hold many in-person courses, we’ve decided to “embrace the now,” and move forward according to […]
Five Reasons to Enroll This Fall-Enrollment requires important decisions for every student–which courses to pursue, how to shape your schedule, and how many credits per term is right for you. As students, we have to be particularly thoughtful about enrollment this upcoming school year. COVID-19 has swept the world, and Oregon, in turn, causing changes to our academic environment, workplace […]
#MaskUp to Help Keep Our Community Safe-Please join us and #MaskUp to help keep our community safe during the pandemic. This public service announcement is courtesy of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials.
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Hears COVID-19 Response Plan for Fall 2020-The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees approved the university’s Fall 2020 Safe Operation and Instruction Plan, a requirement from the governor’s office as part of Executive Order 20-28. The approved plan will now be submitted to the Higher Education Coordinating Commission. The university’s strategy is built on the guidance the Oregon Health Authority provided […]
Alumni Profile: Francisco Aranda-Francisco Aranda graduated from WOU in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in Business and a minor in Spanish. In 2015, Aranda graduated from WOU with a master’s degree in Management and Information Systems, and now works as a product analyst at Nike. Why did you choose WOU? In my sophomore year of high school, […]
Live Q&A Summary: July 30-This is a summary of our July 30, 2020 live Q&A session. We host these live Q&A’s for current students, incoming students and family members on WOU’s Instagram and Facebook accounts every other Thursday at 10 a.m. The next session is Thursday, Aug. 13. Will there be classes this fall? Absolutely! Our class schedule shows the delivery method […]
Two WOU Ensembles Named Finalists for Prestigious Awards-The above photograph is of Western Oregon University Chamber Singers. Western Oregon University is home to many talented musicians. With 14 different ensembles, WOU is bursting with musical performers from many different backgrounds, all showcasing their unique talents. Recently, two of these ensembles were awarded as finalists in prestigious categories: Western Oregon University Chamber Singers […]
Western Oregon University one of 10 institutions selected for national program focused on learner success-Western Oregon University (WOU) is one of 10 institutions selected to participate in the American Council on Education’s (ACE) inaugural Learner Success Laboratory (LSL). LSL is part of a suite of Transformation Labs offered by ACE to guide colleges and universities through a structured strategic planning process to advance critical institutional priorities. Participants will work […]
WOU Selected as One of 10 Institutions for National Program Focused on Learner Success-The American Council on Education (ACE) has selected Western Oregon University as one of 10 higher education institutions to participate in the inaugural Learner Success Laboratory (LSL), which is a program that will support WOU in its strategic planning. LSL is part of a suite of Transformation Labs offered by ACE to guide colleges and […]
Prospective Students: Check Out WOU’s Campus-One of the best things about visiting WOU is getting to see the beautiful campus in different seasons. In fall, the leaves start to change and drape the streets in rich orange, gold, and brown tones. In winter, if we’re lucky, the streets will get a dusting of snow, blanketing the roofs of WOU’s buildings, […]
Alumni Profile: Karen Edwards-As part of our ongoing alumni profile series, we spoke with Karen Edwards, ‘16, an Interdisciplinary Studies grad who specialized in Early Childhood Studies and Communication Studies. At WOU, Edwards participated in multiple extracurriculars, including student government, on-campus jobs, and leadership activities. She mentioned that when she was not in class, she would attend various […]
Alumni Profile: Kelsee Coito-Kelsee Coito graduated from WOU in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in Business. Coito is originally from Mililani, Hawaii, but currently lives in Las Vegas, Nevada, working as a Marketing Ambassador for Topgolf. Why did you choose WOU? I originally chose WOU for the cheerleading program. What advice do you have for future […]
Live Q&A Summary: July 16-This is a summary of our July 16, 2020 live Q&A session. We host these live Q&A’s for current students, incoming students and family members on WOU’s Instagram and Facebook accounts every other Thursday at 10 a.m. The next session is Thursday, July 30. When will the next announcement be regarding whether or not WOU is continuing […]
Western Oregon University’s Swindel Hall-As the oldest public university in Oregon, Western Oregon University has 164 years of history. Knowing the university’s past can illuminate where it’s moving toward for its future. Here’s a look at a building that is often asked about – Swindel Hall. Often referred to as the building that looks like a barn near the […]
Alumni Profile: Tiffany Hendrix Blackmon-As a continuation of our alumni profile series, we are featuring Tiffany Hendrix Blackmon, ’10, a psychology graduate from Portland, Oregon. We spoke with Hendrix Blackmon about her experiences at WOU, her journey through law school and into her law career, and what advice she has for her fellow Wolves. Check out her answers below. […]
WOU Women’s Soccer Adds Assistant Coach-By the Polk County Itemizer-Observer MONMOUTH — Western Oregon University’s women’s soccer team will import an assistant coach from the University of Oregon for the new season this fall. Maryn Beutler, most recently a University of Oregon graduate assistant coach, will join the Wolves. Head coach Kacey Bingham said she’s eager to have Beutler to […]
Hailey Verhaalen: Someday When This Is Over-By Bren Swogger at Vortex Oregon native Hailey Verhaalen has seen a lot change in the past year. A singer-songwriter from Oregon City and graduate of Western Oregon University, Verhaalen made her way to Nashville in 2016 to pursue her dreams in country music. Since then, she’s spent the years avidly pursuing her passions, writing three songs […]
Isle Royale National Park Has New Superintendent-By the Keweenaw Report Isle Royale National Park has a new superintendent. This from a press release from Bert Frost, Regional Director of the National Park Service. Denice Swanke, will take over, effective August 16th. Frost said this about Swanke. “Her honesty and integrity will help continue and develop strong relationships that will position her […]
Mike Krantz is Next Bend Chief of Police-By MyCentralOregon.com The City of Bend has selected Portland Police Bureau Assistant Chief Michael Krantz as Bend’s next Police Chief. Krantz will serve the 115-year-old Bend Police Department in the position previously held by Chief Jim Porter, who retires today. He will begin his service in Bend on August 10, 2020. “Mike has a reputation for being […]
Local Driver-Ed Teacher Honored-By Kristen Wohlers at the Molalla Pioneer Molalla resident and driver-education teacher Timothy Beckham was selected by his peers as a national winner of the Teacher of Excellence award. Beckham, vice president of the Oregon Driver Education Center and a driving instructor at Western Oregon University, is one of five driver-education teachers from throughout the […]
Live Q&A Summary: July 2-WOU has been hosting weekly live Q&A sessions for current and incoming students on our Instagram and Facebook accounts every Thursday at 10 a.m. since March. For summer, we’ve shifting to every other week and will be posting summaries of common questions during our off weeks. These questions are from the Q&A session on July 2, 2020. Are students […]
History Of Western Oregon University’s Bell-Ever wonder about the history of the bell at Western Oregon University’s Werner University Center? Here are six fun facts: In 1886, the bell was cast in Cincinnati, Ohio and placed in the Campbell Hall belfry. The bell was rung to indicate the time of day along with being an emergency alert system, and announcing […]
Two WOU Business Owners Use Creativity To Create Community During Pandemic-Two Western Oregon University alumni business owners have found there’s a solution to every problem, even one that seems like it is taking them on a wild, stop-and-go roller coaster ride. The COVID-19 pandemic has altered how Dawson Officer ’06 of 4 Spirits Distillery in Corvallis and Angela Anderson ‘99 of Syndicate Wine Bar in […]
Rick Bartow Artwork in Online Show-By the Newport News Times The creative work of Rick Bartow (1946-2016) — one of Oregon’s most well-known artists — is now included in the Oregon Coast Online Art Show, presented by the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts and the Newport Visual Arts Center. Bartow’s limited-edition lithograph, “Segyp, Kos Ket Saw Temp,” can be […]
WOU Adds New Programs and Certificates To Meet Career Demands-Western Oregon University added six new programs and nine certificates in the last academic year that will prepare students for careers in growing job markets or to advance their careers. WOU Biology Professor and outgoing Faculty Senate President Kristin Latham-Scott said adding a new curriculum takes into consideration the changing demographics, interests and needs of […]
Live Q&A Summary: June 18-WOU has been hosting weekly live Q&A sessions for current and incoming students on our Instagram and Facebook accounts every Thursday at 10 a.m. since March. For summer, we’re shifting to every other week and will be posting summaries of common questions during our off weeks. Will classes be online in fall? The majority […]
WOU Students Are Training To Be Contact Tracers-Western Oregon University Community Health students will have the opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to serve as contact tracers in Polk County. WOU’s Health and Exercise Science Division and Polk County Health Services professionals are collaborating to develop and implement a COVID-19 Prevention and Contact Tracing program that meets the […]
Grad Profile: Jennifer Romadka-Jennifer Romadka is a graduating Public Policy and Administration student from Beaverton. During her time at WOU, Jennifer has participated in the Honors Program and multiple student leadership positions. What has your experience been like as an Honors Program student? My experience in honors has pushed me academically, personally, and professionally in all the ways […]
Grad Profile: Jose Raul Magana Mendoza-Jose Raul Magana Mendoza is an Early Childhood/Elementary Education major with a minor in English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). He is from Salem. As an outstanding 2020 graduate, we interviewed Magana about his most notable experiences from WOU, as well as his future plans. What has your experience been like as a […]
Grad Profile: Blanca Miranda-Aguilar-Blanca Miranda-Aguilar is an Interdisciplinary Studies major from Arroyo Grande, Calif. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed her on college memories and lessons learned. What has your experience been like as a first-generation student? Yes, I am a first-generation student. I was lucky enough to find and get the help of the Multicultural Student […]
Grad Profile: Kelsie Greenhill-Kelsie Greenhill is a Public Policy and Administration major with a minor in Spanish. She is from Willamina, Ore. As a notable 2020 graduate, we interviewed Greenhill on her favorite aspects of WOU and fond memories from college. What has the experience been like as a transfer student? I transferred from Chemeketa Community College. […]
WOU athletes still pursuing Olympic dreams-By Jennifer Biberston at the Polk County Itemizer-Observer MONMOUTH — Derek Holdsworth looks at the postponement of the Olympic track and field trials as another chance to get better. Originally the trials, which Holdsworth hopes to qualify for in the 800-meters, were set for late June of this year, but have been delayed until June […]
Grad Profile: Taylor Dowler-Taylor Dowler is a graduating Political Science student from Portland. She transferred to WOU from Mount Hood Community College, and has actively been involved with numerous extracurricular activities on campus, including Model United Nations and ASWOU. What has your experience as a transfer student been like? I originally obtained my Associates Degree from Mount Hood […]
Grad Profile: Kayli Smith-Kayli Smith is an art major with a concentration in ceramics, as well as a minor in art history. Her hometown is Dallas, Ore. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Smith about her experience at WOU and her future plans. Why did you choose WOU? Ceramics has always been a class that I felt […]
Grad Profile: Ayanna Arceneaux-Ayanna Arceneaux is a Political Science major with a minor in Health. She is from Puyallup, Wash. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Arceneaux on her favorite memories from WOU and the lessons she wants to pass on to incoming students. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU not just for softball, but […]
Grad Profile: Kranti Budhathoki-Kranti Budhathoki is a graduating student from Kathmandu, Nepal. He is completing a degree in Business, and has been involved with many campus activities, including PLUS team, Associated Students of Western Oregon University, and working for WOU’s Strategic Communications and Marketing. What has your experience been like as an international student? I loved being here […]
Grad Profile: Emily Swart-Emily Swart is an Interdisciplinary Studies major from Salem, Ore., the two focuses of her major being humanities and social science. As an outstanding non-traditional graduate, we interviewed Swart on her most memorable experiences here, as well as her takeaways from college as a whole. Why did you choose WOU? I come from a […]
Grad Profile: Leah Coyle-Leah Coyle is a Communication Studies major from Portland, Ore., who has also completed a minor in Humanities. As an outstanding graduate, we interviewed her on her WOU experience, including her favorite memories and the lessons she’s learned. Are you a first-generation student? What has your experience been like? I am the first member […]
Grad Profile: Jonny Watt-Jonathon “Jonny” Watt is an Elementary/Middle School Education major with a concentration in Middle School Mathematics. He is a Kansas City, Kansas. As an outstanding 2020 graduate, we interviewed Watt on his favorite aspects of WOU and his future plans for after graduation. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I was […]
Lefties’ Alum Mechals Drafted by White Sox in Fourth Round-By Pierre LaBossiere at the Peninsula Daily News PORTLAND, Ore. — Kade Mechals, who pitched for the Port Angeles Lefties in 2018, was selected by the Chicago White Sox in the fourth round of the Major League Baseball draft. Mechals, a McMinnville, Ore., high school graduate, has pitched for Skagit Valley College and Western Oregon University […]
Grad Profile: Kelly Soto-Kelly Soto is a graduating nursing student from Ontario, California. She transferred to WOU from Chemeketa Community College, where she completed her nursing prerequisites and obtained her Associate Arts of Oregon Transfer degree. As an outstanding WOU 2020 graduate, we interviewed Soto about her college experience and future plans. What has your experience been […]
2020 Delmer Dewey/Julia McCulloch Smith Award: D-Dré Wright-D-Dré Wright ’20 has a penchant for acronyms, especially one that inspired and guided her success at Western Oregon University. Wright recalls arranging three words in her mind when she finally decided she was going to ACE everything in her life – Accept, Change and/or Embrace it. From competing on three intramural athletic teams to […]
2020 Delmer Dewey/Julia McCulloch Smith Award: Monica Cerda Ortiz-As a first-generation and low-income student, Monica Cerda Ortiz ’20 started her freshman year of college feeling powerless and not knowing where she belonged. That quickly changed as she learned the importance of finding campus groups where she felt represented and supported at Western Oregon University. She is grateful for the WOU faculty, staff, students […]
Outstanding Graduate Student: Joshua Hodney-Surrounding himself with amazing people provided Outstanding Graduate Student Joshua Hodney ’20 the additional strength he needed to earn his Master of Arts in Teaching. “I am confident in my desire and effort to work hard at everything I do, but I know I would not be where I am without such a powerful support […]
OHSU Golden Lamp Award: Paige McBride-There were moments when Paige McBride ‘20 never imagined she would be able to attend college, let alone receive a degree. Today, the recipient of the OHSU Golden Lamp Award is extremely proud to join the nursing profession as she graduates from the Oregon Health & Science University School of Nursing, Monmouth Campus. “Before starting […]
Grad Profile: Gabriela Acevedo-Solis-Gabriela Acevedo-Solis is a graduating student, who will be receiving a degree in Middle/High School Social Science Education student with a minor in Spanish. She is from Independence, and has been involved in numerous extracurriculars during her time at WOU, including the Multicultural Student Union, Student Engagement, and multiple volunteer organizations. How has being […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship Recipient: Kenneth Carano-Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship winner Associate Professor Kenneth Carano aspires to use his knowledge and status to listen and learn from others’ voices. “Using my white male privilege to be a co-conspirator in working towards giving less-privileged voices a chance to be heard is a critical part of my field’s […]
Grad Profile: Erin Ritchie-Graduating student Erin Ritchie will be completing a degree in Sociology this spring, with a minor in Psychology. Originally from Newport, she transferred to WOU from Linn-Benton Community College, and has been involved with CIP, Abby’s House, and Student Success and Advising during her time at WOU. Where did you transfer from and what […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching: Kristin Latham-Scott-Western Oregon University Biology Professor Kristin Latham-Scott hopes she engages her students with mind-expanding topics while also providing them the skills to tackle the challenges. Her dedication, creativity and enthusiasm to create student-centered learning spaces has earned Latham-Scott this year’s Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching. “I hope my students take with them […]
Grad Profile: Karina Lopez-Karina Lopez is a Communication Studies major and a Health minor from Independence. As an outstanding 2020 graduate, we interviewed Lopez about her experiences being a first generation student and a leader to her peers in our campus community. What has your experience as a first-generation student been like? My experience as a first-generation […]
‘It’s My Passion’: WOU’s Isaiah Edwards Pursuing Pro Dunking Dream-By Marcus Greaves at KOIN PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Isaiah Edwards is a basketball player through and through and has every intangible you would want a player to have. He has handles, a smooth jump shot and a drive to get better. But he’s chosen not to play anymore and focus on a different and […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Service: Cindy Ryan-Dr. Cindy Ryan encourages her students in the Early Childhood Studies programs to be social justice warriors. “I tell them I really believe they can do great things, whether it’s causing ripples in ponds or waves in oceans,” Ryan said. “Everyone has the ability to change the world somehow.” Known for believing teaching and service […]
Grad Profile: Zoe Noel Cawthon-Zoe Noel Cawthon is a philosophy major from Salem. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Cawthon on her most notable memories and life lessons from WOU. What has been your most memorable class? My most memorable class was Forensic Anthropology with Jerielle Cartales! It has nothing to do with my major, and I took […]
Eleven Ideas to Celebrate your Graduation from Western Oregon University-Although COVID-19 has changed many traditions and ways of life, it hasn’t hampered people’s ingenuity. There are plenty of safe ways to celebrate your Western Oregon University graduation on June 13. Keep in mind the current state of Oregon guidelines limits no more than 25 people at a gathering. Attendees must stay at least 6 […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Staff Excellence Award: Susan Griffin-Susan Griffin does not consider her work as the academic program coordinator and adviser in the Student Success and Advising Office to be a job. Instead, she views it as a gift to be able to work beside the brave, hardworking students and colleagues at Western Oregon University. Known for her dedication and unwavering support […]
Grad Profile: Danel Camacho-Danel Camacho is a Community Health Education major and a Human Biology minor from Roseville, Calif. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Camacho about her experience being a transfer student, as well as her fondest memories from being a student-athlete and interacting with our WOU community as a whole. Are you a transfer student? […]
Alumni Award of Excellence: Micheal Morgan-Dr. Micheal Morgan ’70 has a simple explanation for why he goes above and beyond in everything he does. “It’s innate,” he said. “I was raised to work hard, do a good job, help others and do what’s right.” The recipient of the 2020 Alumni Award of Excellence, Morgan has been a staunch supporter of […]
Grad Profile: Melissa Long-Melissa Long is a Secondary English Language Arts Education major from Bend, Ore. As an outstanding 2020 graduate, we interviewed Long on the lessons she learned during college and her favorite memories from WOU. Where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? I transferred to WOU from Chemeketa Community College […]
Grad Profile: April Bradley-April Bradley is a graduating student from Aumsville, Ore., and she is completing a degree in Information Systems. While at WOU, Bradley has served as the family housing apartment manager for Alderview. Are you a transfer student? If so, where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? Yes, however I […]
Grad Profile: Max Kilby-Max Kilby is a Psychology major and a Forensic Psychology minor from Chino Hills, Calif. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Kilby on his favorite aspects of WOU and his memorable experiences from here. What has been your favorite annual event at WOU? The Holiday Tree Lighting has always been one of my favorite […]
Grad Profile: Kaela Wehrman-Kaela Wehrman is a Secondary Education Language Arts major from Albany, Ore. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Wehrman on her most memorable communities and moments from WOU. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because from the first moment I stepped on campus to tour, I could feel the sense of a […]
Statement on George Floyd from President Fuller-A statement from WOU President Rex Fuller: Dear campus community, George Floyd’s death at the hands of Minneapolis police was an abhorrent act of racism. I have been struggling, like many of you, with these senseless acts of violence against Black people in our country. George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and many countless others […]
Grad Profile: Arianna Stone-Arianna Stone is a Psychology major with a minor in Social Science. She is from Salem, Ore, and originally earned her Associates of Arts Oregon Transfer degree from Chemeketa Community College before transferring to WOU. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Stone about her impact on multiple WOU communities, her fondest memories, and her future […]
Grad Profile: Susiele Koga Truong-Susiele Koga Truong is a first-generation graduating student from Wailuku, Maui. She is a Community Health Education major, with a minor in Human Biology. Are you a first-generation student? What has your experience been like? Yes, I’m a first-generation student and my experience through college has been eye opening and not only an experience […]
Law Enforcement Provides WOU Alumnus an Opportunity to Serve-Western Oregon University alumnus Michael Fort ’96 has delivered pizza, driven trucks, waited tables, worked on a farm, served in the Marine Corps and dazzled the airwaves as a DJ. A 1981 graduate of Texas’ Shiner High School, Fort realized odd jobs without a college degree severely limited his potential for success. He knew he […]
Grad Profile: Salvador Garcia Lopez-Salvador Garcia Lopez is an Earth Science major with a minor in Biology. He is from Portland, Ore. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Lopez on his favorite experiences from WOU and his plans for after graduation. Where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? In the fall of 2017, […]
McIntyre learns life lessons through baseball-By Jennifer Biberston at the Polk County Itemizer-Observer MONMOUTH — To Josh McIntyre, baseball is an indicator of life. “Baseball, it’s not always a fair game,” he said. “You could have one plan in place going into the game, but you might have to adapt to what the other team is doing or how the […]
Grad Profile: Natalie Legras-Natalie Legras is a graduating student who is completing a double major in Information Systems and Humanities, with a minor in Business. She is from Scio, Ore., and has participated in the Honors program while at WOU. Are you a first-generation student? What has your experience been like? Neither of my parents graduated from […]
Grad Profile: Zoe Chan-Tuyub-Zoe Chan-Tuyub is a graduating Business student from Sherwood, Ore. Throughout her time at WOU, Chan-Tuyub has participated in many extracurriculars, including PLUS Team, Kappa Delta Chi sorority, and Alternative Break. Are you a first-generation student? What has your experience been like? My experience as a first-generation student has been amazing. Since I started […]
Grad Profile: Faith Van Putten-Faith Van Putten is a graduating Early Childhood Studies student, with a minor in English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). She is from Sacramento, California, and has participated in Peer Mentors, D.R.E.A.M., and Family Building Blocks while at WOU. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because of the small class sizes, their […]
WOU Alumna Finds Herself in the Spotlight-Western Oregon University alumna Colleen Thayer’s new high-profile assignments have placed her in a spotlight that’s slightly outside of her comfort zone. Even so, she gladly accepts the challenge, because she believes it’s important to provide accurate information to the deaf community during this unprecedented moment in history. A Certified Deaf Interpreter, Thayer has been […]
WOU Assistant Professor Defends the Shepherd of the Ecosystem-Western Oregon University Biology Instructor John Laundré advocates for an animal too often viewed as bloodthirsty and dangerous. A world-class ecologist, Laundré is a cougar biologist who is devoted to defending an animal he believes is misunderstood. “Cougars are the shepherds of ecosystems, keeping herbivores in their ecological place. Time after time, it has been […]
-By the Idaho Business Review Sally Guyer, MSW, is the newest member of A New Beginning Adoption Agency’s team as clinical social work director. She has a master’s degree in social work from Portland State University and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Western Oregon University. Guyer has spent her professional life dedicated to helping […]
A Celebration of Academic Excellence-Western Oregon University student Sandra Cerda-Lezama ’20 sought to understand what causes parent-child conflict. Graduate student Leslie McLane designed a lesson plan to equip high school students with the mental tools for effectively processing cognitive dissonance in school settings and throughout their lives. Although their projects differ, both McLane and Cerda-Lezama are excited to participate […]
State Loosens Cougar Hunting Restrictions-By Aaron Kunkler at the Issaquah Reporter Hunters in some areas of Washington state will be able to hunt more cougars after Washington Fish and Wildlife commissioners voted last month to increase limits in 19 areas. The new guidelines will allow more cougars to be hunted in several areas of the state. The goal of the changes was […]
Grad Profile: Eva Batenhorst-Eva Batenhorst will be graduating this spring, with a double major in Biology and Dance, and a minor in Physical Science. Eva is from Eugene, Oregon, and has participated in many extracurriculars during her time at WOU, including the Honors program, RHA, and PLUS team. Are you an honors student? What has your experience been […]
Grad Profile: Jon Montero-Jon Montero is a graduating student from Seattle, Wash., who is completing a degree in Exercise Science. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I was excited about the hands-on experience you receive when taking the courses. In the first year you practice teaching to your peers and in the second year you […]
T.H. Gentle Professor of Education for 2021-When she was a middle and high school teacher in rural China, Western Oregon University Associate Professor Xiaopeng Gong observed many of her students struggled with various social and emotional challenges. “As a teacher, there were so many questions that I wanted to find an answer to but did not have a means to do […]
Grad Profile: Megan McAllister-Megan McAllister will be graduating with a degree in Business. McAllister is from Klamath Falls, Ore., and has participated in the Alpha Chi Omega sorority, as well as the Student Veterans of America club. Are you a transfer student? What has the experience been like? Yes, I transferred from Klamath Community College as a junior. […]
Western Oregon University prepares for Polk County’s phase one reopening-With Polk County’s approval to begin phase one reopening on May 22, Western Oregon University (WOU) will not immediately see a change to day-to-day practices that are currently in place. Phase one does not allow in-person classes, the gathering of large groups, or the reopening of campus to the public. Students will continue remote learning […]
Grad Profile: Maddie Hannah-Maddie Hannah will be graduating from WOU’s Master of Arts in Teaching program. Originally from Rome, Georgia, she graduated from WOU with a major in Humanities and a minor in Linguistics, and has worked as a graduate assistant for the Writing Center. Are you a transfer student? What has the experience been like? I transferred […]
Grad Profile: Heidi Benham-Heidi Benham is a graduating student from Dayton, Ore. She is completing a degree in Mathematics, with a minor in Linguistics. After graduation, Heidi is headed to the University of Connecticut. Are you a transfer student? What has the experience been like? I transferred from the Yamhill Valley Campus of Chemeketa Community College. The faculty […]
Grad Profile: Kailee Goodrich-Kailee is graduating with degrees in both American Sign Language (ASL) Studies and ASL/English Interpretation Major, and she has also earned a minor in health. She is from Livermore, California, where she attended Las Positas Community College and completed her Associate in Arts degree before transferring to WOU. As an outstanding student and member of […]
Grad Profile: Sean Tellvik-Sean Tellvik is a graduating English major, with a concentration in Writing and a minor in Humanities. He is from Hillsboro, Ore., and has served an active part of our community through clubs, sub-communities, and working as a tutor at the Writing Center. We interviewed him on his most notable experiences from his years here […]
Grad Profile: Camryn Skari-Camryn Skari will be graduating with a Masters in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling this June. In addition to being a graduate student, Camryn has worked with the WOU Foundation Phonathon team for the past three years, and has been the lead caller for two years. What has it been like working for the […]
Grad Profile: Adrian Luis Manriquez-Adrian Luis Manriquez is a graduating Psychology student from Keizer. After graduation, Manriquez is headed to Portland State University to complete a Ph.D. program. What has been your most memorable class? That is a very hard question. So many classes shaped my outlook on life and grew me. I would have to say Social Psychology, […]
Late WOU Professor Recognized for ‘Historic’ Contributions to the Field of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities-The American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities announced in early April that it was honoring the late College of Education Professor Hank Bersani in its National Historic Recognition Project 2000-2020. Bersani, a professor of special education who passed in 2012, was named a National Honoree in the project, which seeks to recognize the key […]
Western Oregon University Professor and Advisor Receives International Recognition-Western Oregon University Assistant Professor and Advisor Brooke Dolenc Nott’s compassionate and thoughtful approach to empower students has earned her international recognition. Nott is the recipient of the 2020 Outstanding New Advisor in the Faculty Advising category from the NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising, an organization with more than 14,000 international members promoting and supporting […]
WOU Professor Receives International Recognition-Western Oregon University Assistant Professor and Advisor Brooke Dolenc Nott believes her responsibilities extend beyond assisting students in navigating their college journey and career aspirations. “I want my students to know that I believe in them and that their skills, their specific path, their story is going to fulfill a need in our communities,” she said. […]
Strong and Pretty – WOU Alum Competes in Strongman Competitions-Picking up logs with his bare hands, carrying a grand piano on his back, lifting a 40,000-pound monster truck and starring in “The Strongest Man in History” are a few of Robert Oberst’s accomplishments. A Western Oregon University alum, Oberst ’11 is a professional American strongman who has competed in the World’s Strongest Man competitions, […]
Howl from Home to support WOU students-Josh Salsbury ’20 has been frequently asked “How many of those do you have?” by customers at Western Oregon University’s Food Pantry. If you think people are asking to see if they can have more of an item, Salsbury said it’s the opposite. Even as the demand for the services have increased, he has seen […]
WOU Department Feature: Disability Services Office-Although the office is currently closed to in-person visits, ODS staff are still available to students during their usual hours through phone, email, and Google Hangouts. For a complete list of where/how to contact ODS, visit their website. We’re continuing our department feature series with the Disability Services Office (ODS). We talked to Assistant Director […]
Peter Sears Poetry Prize Winners Announced-To close out National Poetry Month with a celebration, winners of the 4th annual Peter Sears Poetry Prize were announced today. Congratulations to the these student winners: First Prize: To Bear Arms by Cylinda Neidenbach Second Prize: a spell for revenge by Cheyan Swan Third Prize: Flower Crowns by Katherine Sutton The poems (included below) will be […]
Abby’s House Seeks Photos of People Wearing Denim for Denim Day on April 29-While yoga tights, sweatpants and pajama bottoms may be the trending work-at-home pandemic fashion, Dawn Warmbrand invites the Western Oregon University community to wear jeans April 29 for Denim Day, an international campaign to honor Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The violence prevention coordinator for Abby’s House at Western Oregon University, Warmbrand said Denim Day is an international event […]
WOU Professor Creates Code-Breaking Competition-An unscrupulous blackjack dealer helping a ring of hustlers. A race to discover the whereabouts of a deadly virus. A group suspected of hacking into a government website to steal U.S. Census data. The fictional plots in the Kryptos Challenge were created by Western Oregon University Math Professor Cheryl Beaver and Central Washington University Math […]
Student Health and Counseling Center Q&A-Due to Spring Term campus closures, the SHCC is not currently available for in-person visits. Students can still book appointments with doctors and counselors and conduct their meetings through phone calls. The office also offers COVID testing to students, given that students have called beforehand and meet the requirements. The SHCC’s hours remain the same. […]
Student Profile: Jose Andres Hernandes-Galvin-Jose Andres Hernandes-Galvin (who goes by Andres), is an Interdisciplinary Studies Major with a concentration in Social Studies, Humanities, and Education, as well as a minor in Chicano/Latinx studies. When first considering colleges to attend, “I originally had to choose between WOU and PSU. I got a scholarship to come to WOU, but was skeptical […]
WOU Alum Jay Bates Graduates From FBI National Academy-After earning his bachelor’s in Business Administration, Western Oregon alum Jay Bates ’93 took a job with a finance company, where he quickly learned he didn’t enjoy the corporate world. As a former WOU baseball player and high school athlete, Bates found himself missing the team atmosphere. He also remembered the advice of a WOU […]
WOU Department Feature: Cashier’s Office-As part of our department feature series, we spoke with the Cashier’s Office to better understand what the department does and how they assist the WOU community. Head Cashier Katie Rupp let us know more about the department and how they strive to meet the needs of students, staff and faculty, and the larger campus […]
Club Feature: Model UN-WOU’s Model United Nations, or Model UN, is an extracurricular activity that allows students to learn about international relations and diplomacy in a scholarly setting. The club includes “[discussions of] Model UN events, conferences, and current events. We sometimes do workshops to help learn the process and improve our speaking and writing skills.” Recently, we […]
Recent InfoTech Graduate Helps Educators Navigate Emergency Shift to Online Learning-By Anthony Rimel Kaitlin Lucas graduated from WOU’s Information Technology M.S.Ed. program in December 2019. And just a few months later she would be on the frontlines of one of the biggest moments in the history of educational technology: the unprecedented shift to online learning following the global outbreak of COVID-19. Lucas, who also earned a certificate […]
Poetry Provides Perspective for WOU students-For Western Oregon University students Katherine Sutton, Alexander O’Brien, Amber Jahn and Nova Kohnke, a poem is more than the elements used to create it such as alliteration, rhymes, rhythms or metaphors. Although they each have their own unique writing style, they all view poetry as a window for others to view their perspective of […]
Poetry, a Language of Its Own-Western Oregon University linguistics Professor David Hargreaves has noticed every known culture has a specialized language that is distinct from our everyday language. Hargreaves said this language is used in songs, folktales, stories, myths, mystic rituals, funeral laments and magic spells. “At the heart of this specialized language is the attention to language itself, rhythm, […]
Connect with Friends While Physical Distancing-During this time of physical distancing, it can be difficult to feel connected with your friends. Without the option to connect in person, friendships can feel particularly strained. However, we have many options to stay connected with friends while still adhering to physical distancing guidelines. Here’s some of the best options: Video Chatting This method […]
WOU Alumni Class Notes-1970s Jim Healy ‘75, ‘82, retired last July after 39 years in education as a high school teacher, counselor and administrator, most recently at Southridge High School in Beaverton. He lives in Hillsboro with his wife, Mary. Jerry Moore ’77 has retired after 43 years in law enforcement, the last 14 as chief of police […]
An Inspirational Day for Western Oregon University-Your monumental support of Western Oregon University’s 2020 Giving Day was absolutely amazing! Thanks to your belief in WOU students and programs, we all witnessed what happens when Wolves work together to make a dream become a reality. Because of you, Giving Day raised a record-breaking $140,629, exceeding the goal of $100,000 and more than […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Approves Undergrad Resident Tuition Increase of 4.55%-MONMOUTH, Ore. – The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees approved a tuition increase of 4.55%, or $8 per credit, for Oregon resident undergraduate students in the 2020-21 academic year at its meeting Wednesday. The 10 WOU students, two administrators and two faculty members who make up the Tuition and Fee Advisory Committee (TFAC) recommended […]
I Love You Emoji Began at WOU-For anyone who has texted the “I love you” handshape emoji, please thank CM Hall and Chad Ludwig. Hall, the co-project director of DeafBlind interpreting, and Ludwig, the director of RRCD, petitioned Unicode Consortium, a nonprofit that regulates the coding standards for written computer text that includes emojis to have the “I Love You” handshape […]
6 Tips to Say Goodbye to Procrastination-With the switch to remote classes for spring term, it can be easy for students to feel overwhelmed with the amount of work that needs to be done. Unfortunately, with this comes every college student’s greatest enemy: procrastination. However, with a few key tricks, it’s easy to overcome the temptation of putting off work. Here’s […]
A Stitch of Kindness by WOU Community Members-The crooked stitches, uneven pleats and other minor imperfections almost prevented Heather Holmes from continuing to sew fabric face masks. But the co-director of Western Oregon University’s DeafBlind Interpreting National Training and Resource Center thought about her wife who has asthma, their aging parents, their friends with underlying health conditions, and their friends who are pregnant. […]
WOU Grad Encourages People to Conquer Their Challenges-Western Oregon University alum Kacey McCallister ’12 knows how quickly a person’s life can unexpectedly change, leaving no discernable path forward. When he was 6 years old, McCallister attempted to run across a divided highway and was struck by a semi-truck. He believes he was incredibly lucky to survive; the accident severed his left leg, […]
Art for Innovation-The late Alfred “Fred” Maurice’s curiosity and desire to see students succeed inspired him to establish a challenge for Western Oregon University students. A WOU benefactor and honorary faculty member (pictured below), he created the J. Dolores and Alfred P. Maurice Initiative, a challenge for undergraduates who complete a year-long project in quest for a […]
Legacy to Western Oregon University football-When he was eight years old, Blake Davis ’23 knew he wanted to follow in his great grandfather’s, great uncles’, grandfather’s and father’s footsteps to play football at Western Oregon University. Erik Davis ’99 remembers the day Blake received his offer to play at his alma mater. “I told him although he’s a Davis, he […]
Remote Learning at WOU Relies on Moodle-Western Oregon University graduate assistants Adrienne Allardt-Wong and Kerri Kunda have some helpful advice for students and faculty who are using Moodle for their remote spring term courses. Moodle is a learning management system used by WOU to deliver its remote access courses. “Just play around in Moodle for a bit, and you’ll get the […]
WOU Continues to Lead Nation in American Sign Language Education and Advocacy-Western Oregon University’s Division of Deaf Studies and Professional Studies (DDSPS) is nationally known to be consistently at the cutting edge of innovation and excellence in its academic programs. Mark Girod ’94, dean of the College of Education, attributes the programs’ success to a dedicated faculty who are committed to access, equity and inclusion for […]
A WOU Student’s Adventures in Scotland-We spoke with Miller in fall of 2019, before she returned from Scotland. WOU student Chloe Miller studied abroad at Stirling University in Stirling, Scotland during fall term. A Bend, Oregon native, she is a History major with a Dance minor, and started her junior year at WOU this fall. We had the opportunity to […]
Six Tips for Remote Learning Spring Term at WOU-As we venture into new territory of remote course delivery for spring term at Western Oregon University, students should remember one thing will never change. WOU is here for you. Now more than ever, communicating with your professors, adviser and staff is important. Whether you need to call, email or video chat, they are here […]
A Former Online Student Shares His Advice-Adrian Trujillo knows all too well the challenges of navigating remote college courses. While studying for his bachelor’s degree, he also juggled being a father to three young boys and working a full-time job. Now the bilingual academic success adviser in Western Oregon University’s Student Success and Advising (SSA) Office, Trujillo, 25, is eager to […]
Go on a Virtual Tour of WOU-With our tours temporarily suspended, we’ve filmed the daily tour (both in English and Spanish) so you can participate from the social distance of your home. We’d love to hear about your favorite part of campus and your favorite WOU fact – comment below or let us know on social media (we’re @WOUnews) on Instagram, […]
Western Oregon University recognized for serving the aging population-An assistant professor in the Gerontology program, Melissa Cannon is proud of Western Oregon University’s history of promoting age-friendly values in a variety of ways including encouraging lifelong learning and access to core institutional activities, community partnerships and intergenerational exchanges in teaching and learning. WOU’s dedication and work in this area has resulted in being […]
Lessons in the lessons: English and General Education-There are lessons within the lessons taught in biology to literature to philosophy classes at Western Oregon University. And each lesson can provide us with guidance, insight and knowledge during this uncertain time. Today at WOU asked faculty to share with students and employees some perspective from their subject matter to help us navigate our […]
WOU Offers At-Home Workout Options-Western Oregon University students and community members now have an option to take at-home fitness classes through the Peter Courtney Health and Wellness Center. Campus Recreation Assistant Director Zachary Hammerle used a little innovation to be able to provide FOD or Fitness on Demand workouts. Live classes on Instagram will begin two weeks into spring […]
Lessons in the Lessons: Music and Psychology-There are lessons within the lessons taught in biology to literature to philosophy classes at Western Oregon University. And each lesson can provide us with guidance, insight and knowledge during this uncertain time. Today at WOU asked faculty to share with students and employees some perspective from their subject matter to help us navigate our […]
Lessons in the Lessons: Business and Sociology-There are lessons within the lessons taught in biology to literature to philosophy classes at Western Oregon University. And each lesson can provide us with guidance, insight and knowledge during this uncertain time. Today at WOU asked faculty to share with students and employees some perspective from their subject matter to help us navigate our […]
Next Week at WOU (March 23 to 29)-Happy Spring Self-Isolation Break! Or Spring Couch Potato Break 2020? Whatever you want to call it, let’s all agree this is not the spring break any of us planned. However, it’s the smartest thing we can to do to protect ourselves and others from spreading the coronavirus. We can either be bitter about the way […]
5 Places to Look for Summer Jobs and Internships-With spring break quickly upon us, it might be time to start looking for summer jobs and internships. With the amount of information on the internet surrounding job hunting, it can be difficult to figure out where to start. Thankfully, there are some great resources to make the process a little bit easier (including some […]
Q&A with Campus Public Safety Director Rebecca Chiles-We had the opportunity to talk with Rebecca Chiles, director of WOU’s Campus Public Safety (CPS) department, about her role on campus and what she enjoys about working on campus. Can you describe your current position? I’m director of Campus Public Safety, which encompasses environmental and occupational health and safety, parking services and emergency management. […]
Tips to stay healthy mentally and physically-Two Western Oregon University health professionals have suggestions on how you can stay healthy both mentally and physically, especially with many people having concerns about the coronavirus (COVID-19). Craig Wimmer, assistant director of Wellness Education, and Jennifer King, a family nurse practitioner and medical services director, both work at the Student Health and Counseling Center (SHCC). […]
March 19: Update from President Rex Fuller-Dear campus community, After many conversations and deep reflection, we have decided to extend remote course delivery through the entire spring term to combat the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). We feel this is the best solution for our campus because it allows us to keep resources–including residence halls–available as well continue to provide opportunities for a high-quality […]
March 13 COVID-19 Update from President Fuller-Dear campus community, In the past 24 hours, there has been a significant development that affects our planning. Late last night, Gov. Brown announced a statewide closure of Oregon K-12 schools from March 16 through March 31. This decision affects many students, faculty and staff who have children attending Oregon schools. We continue to take a […]
Next Week at WOU (March 16 to March 22)-Looking for things to do at Western Oregon University and nearby this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. If you are hosting a campus event, be sure to add it to the calendar by visiting calendar.wou.edu and click “submit […]
3 Steps to Commencement-Are you a WOU senior anticipating commencement? Or even a junior planning ahead for that big day? Before you order your cap and gown and walk across that stage, there are a few steps to keep in mind to prepare for graduation. Firstly, you do not need to be graduating that spring term to attend […]
COVID-19 Update from President Rex Fuller-Dear campus community, As promised, I am writing with additional information about our response to COVID-19, particularly in light of Governor Brown’s executive directives released late last night and this morning. First, and most importantly, consistent with the Governor’s executive action informed by guidance from Oregon Health Authority experts, we are not closing campus at this time. You […]
The Impact of Giving Day 2020-You did it! You made history! As we close the book on Giving Day 2020, we are grateful for your incredible generosity. Together, more than $140,000 was raised March 3 to support the students and programs at WOU! Thank you for helping GROW WOU! We are eager to see what your kindness will do for […]
WOU’s Art and Wine Walk Benefits Students-The late Alfred “Fred” Maurice was known to challenge people to move beyond their comfort zone to learn something new. His legacy continues to provide students at Western Oregon University with the opportunity to do just that. A WOU benefactor and honorary faculty member, Maurice created the J. Dolores and Alfred P. Maurice Endowed Challenge […]
Next Week at WOU (March 9 to 15)-Looking for things to do at Western Oregon University this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. If you are hosting a campus event, be sure to add it to the calendar by visiting calendar.wou.edu and click “submit event.” Important […]
5 Places to Volunteer Near WOU-Volunteering can offer students both the fulfillment that accompanies assisting the community around them and the opportunity to expand their resume skills. Here’s some opportunities on or around campus that you can pursue. Alternative Break: Alternative Break is a program on campus that sends students to other locations, both domestic and international, to serve communities […]
Western Oregon University Has Record-Breaking Giving Day-Unprecedented is how Western Oregon University Annual Giving Coordinator Emily Swart described Giving Day on March 3. “Because we have a great team of alumni, friends, students and employees who truly love WOU, we had a record-breaking day,” Swart said. “I’m grateful to everyone who helped make a difference for WOU students and the university.” […]
Western Oregon University Takes a Proactive Approach to Potential Coronavirus Threat-Benjamin Franklin’s advice that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” describes Western Oregon University’s diligent approach to preparing and planning if there is a case of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on campus or a nearby community. “As with any potential threat to our campus, we are monitoring the situation very closely, and […]
Interested in Volunteering at AES? Here’s What You Need to Know-If you’re interested in participating in AES, but are unsure about presenting, volunteering is a great option to get involved with the event. As part of our ongoing feature series on the Academic Excellence Showcase, we spoke with AES Student Representative Chloe Miller about the need for volunteers to ensure the event runs smoothly. Miller, […]
Women of Culture Celebration 2020-[Co-written by Cheyan Swan and Erin Worley] This Wednesday, March 4, WOU’s Multicultural Student Union (MSU) is hosting their Women of Culture Celebration in the WUC’s Columbia Room. There is no cost to attend, but registration is necessary. Interested individuals can head to MSSP Office during their weekday hours of 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. […]
Letter from WOU President Rex Fuller about Coronavirus-Dear campus community, I understand that many of you are feeling concerned about coronavirus (COVID-19) and the possible impact on our campus. A core group of emergency planners have been meeting on this issue since late January and continue to do so regularly, including a meeting with my cabinet and members of the Emergency Planning […]
Celebrate Growing Western Oregon University on Giving Day-Question: How do you raise $100,000 in 24 hours to benefit Western Oregon University students and programs? Answer: Enlist the power of a pack of WOU alumni, friends, students and employees to participate in Giving Day today. Annual Giving Coordinator Emily Swart said Giving Day is an annual event with the goal to create a […]
Investigate Career Possibilities at Western Oregon University’s Criminal Justice Career Fair-Western Oregon University students exploring career and internship options should investigate possible leads at the Criminal Justice Career Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday in the Pacific Room at the Werner University Center. “This career fair is an opportunity for students to find where their passion might fit,” Criminal Justice Assistant Professor Jennifer […]
Bullet Journals: A Creative Way to Stay Organized-College can be an incredibly busy time in a student’s life, and that is no different for Ellen Moore, an Education Studies major from Portland, Oregon. Currently, Ellen is involved with the National Residence Hall Honorary, Ambassadors, PLUS Team, the Housing and Dining Advisory Committee, and is a student office assistant for the Vice President […]
Next Week At WOU (March 2 to 9)-Looking for things to do at Western Oregon University this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. If you are hosting a campus event, be sure to add it to the calendar by visiting calendar.wou.edu and click “submit event.” Important […]
4 Things to Do Over Spring Break-Spring Break is approaching quickly, and after the chaotic bustle of prep week and finals, we can find ourselves at a loss for how to spend this free week before jumping back into the hustle. Although Alternative Break applications are closed for this year (they close October 20th, if you would like to sign up […]
4 Ways to Save Money as a College Student-As a hard-working student, you probably want to enjoy the finer things in life, but could do without the hefty price tag. Luckily, many businesses, both big and small, offer student discounts on a variety of products and services. Here are some of the best ones. Entertainment If you’re looking for deals on entertainment, you […]
Western Oregon University Presents Urinetown, The Musical-What happens when a hero challenges a sinister government official who has imposed a fee for citizens to pee? The only way to flush out the answer is to attend the Western Oregon University Theatre department’s presentation of Urinetown, The Musical on Feb. 27-29 and March 4-7. A tale of corruption, greed, shenanigans, love and […]
Upcoming Lecture Explores the Effects of Spanish Colonization-This Thursday, February 27, the WOU community is invited to attend a lecture by Dr. Sonia Kania titled From Southwest Spain to Southwestern United States: Spanish in the Age of Exploration. Kania is an associate professor at the University of Texas at Arlington who currently serves as the chair of the Department of Modern Languages. […]
Criminal Justice: Taryn VanderPyl Q&A-Dr. VanderPyl is an assistant professor for WOU’s Criminal Justice Sciences Division. What is your research/area of focus? What classes are you currently teaching? I am proud to be a big nerd! I love research and teaching, so I could go on and on about both. I am a qualitative researcher, so I spend […]
Club Spotlight: Black Student Union-WOU’s Black Student Union (BSU) is one of several student organizations on campus focused on supporting our students and creating an inclusive space for them to thrive. On the organization’s Engage page, it mentions that “The Black Student Union exists to promote cultural awareness, political awareness, and to provide support for all the students and […]
WOU’s Business Office: What You Need to Know-WOU is comprised of many departments, all working together to ensure that students are well supported and the university continues to run smoothly. One of these departments is the university’s Business Office, located in room 101 in the Lieuallen Administration Building (next to ITC). One of the biggest misunderstandings about the Business Office is that […]
Next Week at WOU (Feb. 25 to March 1)-Looking for things to do at WOU this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. Important Notices SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE: There is still time to apply for WOU scholarships. You can apply for more than 70 scholarships with one form, due […]
New Battle Ground Police chief and WOU graduate takes oath of office-Posted by ClarkCountyToday.com Date: Saturday, February 15, 2020 Mike Fort takes over for retiring Chief Bob Richardson BATTLE GROUND — Mike Fort took his official oath of office Friday afternoon as Battle Ground’s new chief of police. Chief Fort, who has served as Battle Ground Police lieutenant the last two years, was named successor to […]
From farmworker roots to national acclaim for former Nyssa man and WOU alum | Malheur Enterprise-Yadira Lopez, Tech Register February 19, 2020 Nyssa schools and farm fields helped form Gustavo Balderas. Now the superintendent of the Eugene School District, last week Balderas was named the national superintendent of the year. Balderas has led the Eugene School District since 2015. The award, given by the national School Supertintendents Association, honors school […]
Five Benicia High athletes sign letters of intent to play in college, 2 Signing with WOU-By THOMAS GASE | tgase@timesheraldonline.com | Vallejo Times Herald PUBLISHED: February 13, 2020 at 5:47 p.m. | UPDATED: February 14, 2020 at 3:19 p.m. Five Benicia High student-athletes recently found their true north and their decisions were celebrated at a Thursday ceremony where they signed their letters of intent for college. While golfer Angel Antonio […]
WOU Student Leo Marquez Interns at Marion County DA’s Office-At WOU, many students have participated in internships that correlate to their career goals. One of those students is junior Leo Marquez, a Criminal Justice major who completed an internship last fall with the Marion County District Attorney’s office. As a student intern, Marquez informed victims of their rights, provided assistance to these victims, attended […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees pledges to keep tuition rates affordable-The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees discussed on Wednesday updates concerning a budget shortfall for the 2019-20 fiscal year and strategies for the 2020-21 university budget that address several universal higher education hurdles. President Rex Fuller reiterated his intention that the university remain affordable to Oregonians seeking a four-year degree. “WOU is not immune […]
What’s Happening Around WOU? Here’s How to Find Out-With all the events that happen on campus, it can be pretty easy to miss events. You might get an abundance of emails, or maybe there’s just too much happening around campus to keep track of it all. Here are some ways you can make sure you’re getting all the information you need. At WOU, […]
Attention Transfer Students: We’re Here to Help-When you are ready to transfer to Western Oregon University, Dr. Kristin Mauro is definitely someone you want to meet. The director of Western Oregon University’s Transfer Pathways department, Mauro is an advocate and a valuable resource for transfer students. She works with students to view their transcripts and explain how their courses will transfer, […]
Get to Know WOU’s President: Rex Fuller-This is the first in a series of stories highlighting WOU employees. By Cheyan Swan and Erin Worley We all have big aspirations as children, but the careers we follow in our adult lives can be just as important as those we dreamed of. In Western Oregon University’s president’s case, Dr. Rex Fuller aspired to […]
WOU Alum Heads Back to Campus as Coordinator for Conduct and Community Standards-WOU is a place where many feel at home. Sometimes, graduates even head back to campus to fulfill a title other than student: employee. One alum who did just this is Maria Bonifacio-Sample, a 2003 WOU grad who majored in Interdisciplinary Studies. Now, she’s back at the university as the Coordinator for Conduct and Community […]
WOU Club Feature: Acapella-Did you know WOU has an Acapella Club? We sat down with co-president Olivia Martin to learn more about the club. What is a typical meeting like at the Acapella Club? A typical meeting for Acapella Club consists of mostly learning and perfecting new music, along with a decent amount of goofing around! We start […]
Next Week at WOU (Feb. 17 to 23)-Looking for things to do at WOU this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. Important Notices SHARE YOUR EVENT NEWS: If you are hosting a campus event, be sure to add it to the calendar by visiting calendar.wou.edu and […]
Western Oregon University Invites Concordia University-Portland Students to Transfer to WOU-Students and employees invite Concordia University-Portland students to discover why they should transfer to Western Oregon University. “WOU is a good fit for Concordia students because of our many similarities, from our academic programs to our average class size,” WOU President Rex Fuller said. Concordia students have several factors to consider in deciding where to […]
Chemistry Added to Multiple Interests Equals Romance-There are countless stories of how alumni of various eras met their spouses at Western Oregon University. A high school friendship that grew into a romance. A glance in a classroom that eventually led to a marriage proposal. Instant chemistry when meeting at an athletics event. In celebration of Valentine’s Day, Today at WOU interviewed […]
WOU Alum named National Superintendent of the Year-Congratulations to WOU alum Gustavo Balderas ’90 was just named the 2020 National Superintendent of the Year! This significant recognition speaks to his dedication to Oregon’s youth. Balderas is the son of a migrant family from Mexico who settled in Oregon. Balderas works for the Eugene School District and he’s the second WOU alum to […]
Dominique Loggins earns GNAC track and field honor-Pamplin Media Group The Times By Dan Brood Tuesday, February 11, 2020 The Tualatin grad, running for Western Oregon, sprints to victory at University of Portland indoor meet Dominique Loggins, a 2019 Tualatin High School graduate, and a freshman on the Western Oregon University track and field team, got his 2020 indoor season off to […]
Corvallis names new police chief-Corvallis Gazette Times Bennett Hall Feb 11, 2020 Nick Hurley has been tapped to succeed Jon Sassaman as chief of the Corvallis Police Department, the city announced on Tuesday. Hurley, who currently holds the rank of captain, will take over leadership of the department when Sassaman retires on June 30. Hurley heads the division […]
Western Oregon runner wins national player of the week honor-Luis Ramirez Salem Statesman Journal Published 6:00 a.m. PT Feb. 5, 2020 Derek Holdsworth named National Track Athlete of the Week Derek Holdsworth put forth a record-breaking performance over the weekend for Western Oregon as won the 800-meter race at the University of Washington Invitational with a time of 1:47.74. Holdsworth won the event […]
Despite rumors, Town & Country Lanes will remain a bowling alley, after WOU Alums retire.-Capi Lynn, Salem Statesman Journal Published 6:00 a.m. PT Feb. 5, 2020 Don Lebold stands back and scans the 24 shiny, wooden lanes before him. It’s mid-morning, and his Keizer bowling alley is buzzing with patrons of the retirement age and older. He points out a woman who’s been coming here since she […]
New exhibit features work of NWC and WOU alumna-Feb 5, 2020 Published by Cody Enterprise The SinClair Gallery at Northwest College will soon feature an exhibit titled “Moth to the Flame” that will showcase a small group of painting by alumna Kelly Hartman. The artist’s reception opened this week. Hartman is a painter and printmaker who draws on nature, a love of color, […]
Who is Hopkins? Namesake of Hopkins Elementary, and OCE Graduate.-Thursday, February 06, 2020 By June Reynolds Sherwood Gazette Pamplin Media Group ‘Because of their efforts, a legacy of good education extended for 40 years.’ I have noticed that the J.C. Hopkins School is going to be the new district office. This school building was my alma mater from fifth through eighth grade and at […]
El Dorado High School’s Danny Bell bound for Western Oregon-Published on February 7, 2020 By Kevin Christensen Mountain Democrat Danny Bell – a three-year-starting quarterback for El Dorado High School – signs a letter of intent Wednesday, Feb. 5, to attend and play football at Western Oregon University. On hand for the special day were classmates, staff, coaches, former teammates and family, including his […]
New Independence Hotel is the perfect place for a Valentine’s getaway-Posted Feb 08, 2020 By Gerry Frank | For The Oregonian/OregonLive Spend this Valentine’s Day at the recently opened Independence Hotel (201 Osprey Ave., Independence; 503-837-0200; theindependencehotel.com). The small town of Independence often gets overlooked, but this new boutique hotel has every intention of changing that. The prime historic downtown location, near Willamette River […]
Four Oregon City student-athletes confirm college plans on Signing Day-Sunday, February 09, 2020 By Jim Beseda Clackamas Review Pamplin Media Group Oregon City High School senior Austin Canchola, Carissa Feliciano, Abi Willett, and Zach Zumwalt joined a select group student-athletes who have an opportunity to continue their athletic careers at the college level.The four were joined by family, friends, teammates, and coaches during a […]
TWO SOUTHERN OREGON LOCAL ATHLETES SIGN TO PLAY FOR WESTERN OREGON UNIVERSITY-Posted: Feb 10, 2020 8:17 PM Updated: Feb 10, 2020 11:51 PM Posted By: Josh Shelton News Watch 12 South Medford’s James Duane and Crater’s Averi Young both committed to Western Oregon University to further their academic and athletic career’s in their respective sports. MEDFORD, Ore. — On Monday, two athletes from two different schools […]
Ex-Roseburg standout Warmouth in first season at Western Oregon-Published by TOM EGGERS News-Review Sports Editor The News-Review Jan 30, 2020 MONMOUTH — Former Roseburg High School standout Collin Warmouth is in his first season of college basketball, playing at Western Oregon University. The Wolves compete in the D-II Great Northwest Athletic Conference. Warmouth, a 6-foot-5 guard, has appeared in 14 games for […]
5 Tips for a Stress-Free Registration Week-Each term at WOU, you will be able to register for the next term during week eight of the current term. This can be a little intimidating at first, especially if you’re still new to the registration process, but there’s no need to worry, as there’s an easy way to ensure smooth registration. Check registration […]
Western Oregon University activates dedicated resources to help Concordia students finish their degrees-Western Oregon University (WOU) has created a dedicated team to support Concordia students with WOU employees from areas including Graduate Programs, Admissions, Academic Advising, Financial Aid, Housing and more. WOU is striving to be the most affordable transfer opportunity for Concordia students and offers personalized support to help students find pathways to graduation. Any current […]
Employee Spotlight: University Computer Solutions’ Brittany Franklin-As part of our employee feature series, we spoke with WOU System Administrator Brittany Franklin about her current position and her time at the university, both as a student and as an employee. Brittany began her college journey as a student at Chemeketa Community College, and then transferred to WOU to finish her degree. In […]
Make Your Scholarship Applications Shine-Dedicating time and paying attention to the details are two essential requirements when applying for college scholarships. Unfortunately, too many college-bound students lower their chance to earn a scholarship by procrastinating, often resulting in sloppy applications with typos and mistakes. If the idea of earning free money for college interests you, it’s time to get […]
Erik Morgan Jr.: ASWOU President Q & A-WOU boasts a phenomenal student government, aptly named the Associated Students of Western Oregon University (ASWOU). These leaders are dedicated to ensuring students are well-supported, as well as advocating for student rights. We had the opportunity to speak with ASWOU president Erik Morgan Jr., who offered us some insight into his experience with the organization. […]
Get to Know WOU Professors: Dr. Ethan McMahan-WOU is home to many phenomenal professors and faculty members. We had the opportunity to learn more about Dr. Ethan McMahan, chair of the Behavioral Sciences division. Check out his answers below! What is your research/area of focus? What classes are you currently teaching? My research area concerns how contact with natural environments, versus built […]
Where Should I Go to College? Tips to Help Students Decide-Your late nights of writing essays and completing applications has resulted in acceptance letters from more than one university. Now with choices on the table, it’s time to decide what college fits best for you and your goals. Western Oregon University sophomore Tori Cook recommends prospective students first look at the programs and majors offered […]
Resident Halls: Barnum-Of all the housing options at WOU, Barnum Hall differs most. Jojo McGee, a Barnum RA from this past academic year, characterizes the residence hall by its layout, as it is very similar in feel and practicality to an apartment. Because Barnum is not comprised of halls that share bathrooms and other gathering spaces, residents […]
Congress to Campus Fosters Civil Communication, Engagement and Literacy-Western Oregon University Professor Mary Pettenger and Assistant Professor Earlene Camarillo believe the connections each of us makes with people who have different perspectives and opinions allow us to learn and grow as a community. That’s why Camarillo and Pettenger, who both teach in the Politics, Policy and Administration department, collaborated to bring Congress to […]
Resident Halls: Landers-Landers Hall is comprised of three floors and four pods per floor that are open to residents. Traditionally, pods were organized by pairs with one RA overlooking each pair per floor. In the new system, beginning in Fall 2019, each pod is overlooked by their own RA. Jaqcueline Cach Briceno, the RA of Pods 3 […]
Next Week at WOU (Feb. 10 to 16)-Looking for things to do at WOU next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. Important Notices Community members are welcome to attend public lectures, athletic events and more. Come explore what’s happening at Western Oregon University. Tuesday, Feb. 11 COFFEE […]
Residence Halls: Heritage-Heritage Hall is a four-story, stand-alone building that houses first-year students. The RA of Fourth Christensen, Leah Coyle, defines Heritage and its community as overall welcoming. The programs, environment, and atmosphere are interesting, safe, and inclusive. One of the notable benefits is the halls’ layout, shaped in a T formation with a community area in […]
Residence Halls: Ackerman-Ackerman Hall is the newest amongst WOU’s first-year housing options. It is comprised of three coed wings per floor, spanning up through three full residence floors. Zac Cole, the RA for Third Taylor this academic year, characterized Ackerman’s community experience by its mixed class nature. Ackerman is the only residence hall that fills each hall […]
Tips for Finding, Applying and Interviewing for Campus Jobs-Classes plus homework is about the same as a full-time job for many students at Western Oregon University. For students looking for a job to help pay for tuition, living expenses, transportation or other things, the best option is an on-campus job because the work hours are arranged to meet the students’ class schedules. On-campus […]
Video: Police Trained to Communicate Better with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Communities-We’re thrilled to have collaborated with DPSST and Seek the World on this video highlighting how police are trained to communicate, interact, and partner with the deaf and hard of hearing communities. See any familiar faces? WOU ASL faculty and alumni! You can also view and share the video on our Facebook page!
Admitted to Western Oregon University? Take the next steps!-RSVP to WOU If a friend invited you to a movie, you would accept, decline or defer the offer to another time? The same is true with your acceptance letter. It’s important for planning purposes that you let us know your decision. You can indicate your choice by completing WOU’s Intent to Enroll form, which […]
Western Oregon University Welcomes Two Former U.S. Reps. to Share the Value and Impact of Public Service-Former Congress members Nick Lampson (Democrat; Texas 9th district) and Rod Chandler (Republican; Washington 45th district) will visit Western Oregon University (WOU) for a series of events Feb. 10-12 focused on sharing how the U.S. Congress functions, promoting bipartisanship and discussing the value of careers in public service. A Congress to Campus Public Forum will […]
Next Week at WOU (Feb. 3 to 9)-Looking for things to do at WOU next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. Important Notices CANCELED: CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION: The Chinese New Year event on Friday, Jan. 31 has been postponed. It will be held in conjunction with […]
Western Oregon University Choirs Are Belgium-Bound-Dr. James Reddan does more than ask his Western Oregon University choir students to shoot for the stars. Reddan, as an assistant music professor and director of choral activities, makes certain every student has the skills and knowledge to confidently reach the destination. “I have high expectations for my students, but they are always achievable […]
Western Oregon University Hosts Winter Preview Day on Feb. 1-When she was a senior in high school in 2017, Cheyanne Bumgardner said Western Oregon University caught her attention because of what she had read about it. But she knew she needed to learn more. WOU stood out to her for many reasons, including the mid-sized campus, the small classes and the many specialized programs. […]
WOU’s Handshake May Lead to a Handshake-Western Oregon University students and alumni seeking employment opportunities should start with Handshake. And, hopefully that leads to a congratulatory handshake. Handshake is a job and information site used by employers and recruiters to post jobs, internships and events available for WOU students and alumni. The site is accessed through the WolfLink program in students’ […]
CWU hosting free West African dance and drumming workshop-Published by The Daily Record Master teacher Darryl Thomas will teach West African dance and drumming at Central Washington University during a two-day workshop on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, according to a news release. The free workshops will be held in Nicholson Pavilion Dance Studio 106 and are open to the public. According to […]
Barlow HS basketball coaching icon nearing career milestone of 600 wins-Published by Nick Krupke, Fox 12 GRESHAM, OR (KPTV) – He is a true living legend in the Oregon coaching circle and a pillar in the Gresham community at Barlow High School. His assistant coaches have joked about him being the winningest coach in the state to never win a state title. While that is […]
Next Week at WOU (Jan. 27 to Feb. 2)-Looking for things to do at WOU this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. Important Dates NEED TO DROP A COURSE?: Friday, Jan. 31 is the last day to drop a course without a grade responsibility. Monday, Jan. […]
Western Oregon University students find inspiration in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s work and words-The words and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. have provided inspiration and guidance to Western Oregon University students Chanrithy Fuller-Avalos, Priscila España and Jake Sutherby. The three students’ paths recently merged when they were chosen as the top three contestants in WOU’s MLK Jr. Student Essay Competition. The students wrote essays based on […]
Discover Exceptional Art Exhibits at Western Oregon University-Paula Booth encourages people to walk through Western Oregon University’s art exhibits with the knowledge “nothing is expected of them when they do.” Booth is the director of the Cannon Gallery of Art and oversees the exhibits in the Hamersly Library and the Werner University Center. She is also an assistant professor. “Just come in […]
Bandon Runner Signs with Western Oregon-By John Gunther, The World BANDON — Shannon Smith’s parents weren’t surprised she became successful at running even though she came to the sport relatively late — she didn’t start until the track season of her sophomore year. “Shannon has always been the person if she’s going to do something, she’s going to do it […]
Honors Program Insights-Western Oregon University’s Honors Program is a subcommunity of the university’s academic populace. The required curriculum is developed by and for the students engaging in it, as the Honors Committee is comprised of both instructors and honors students. Leading the program is Gavin Keulks, who has been WOU’s Honors Director for 10 years. For his […]
Nine Reasons Squirrels Are the Best-What animal has the reputation as an acrobat, bandit, gardener and trickster? That can be seen zigzagging across roads, parks and backyards? And is celebrated on Jan. 21? Yes, it’s the squirrel! In honor of National Squirrel Appreciation Day, Western Oregon University has compiled some fun facts about squirrels, WOU’s unofficial mascot. Christy Hargrove, a […]
WOU Transfer Day is Friday, Jan. 24-Western Oregon University has created a simple and advantageous process to help transfer students join the Wolves family. The first step students interested in transferring to WOU should make is to attend WOU Transfer Student Day on Friday, Jan. 24. The free event for students and their guests begins at 8:30 a.m. and goes until […]
-By Carol Rosen, Canby Herald Most of us love to travel, visiting states in our homeland and occasionally taking a look at the countries that make up the world. But few of us ever get a chance to work abroad, meet and live with the people in their culture and see what they think of […]
She and He Build ‘She-sheds’ in Sherwood-By Ray Pitz, Portland Tribune When Anthony and Jamie Taylor-Weber were looking for a work space to run Anthony’s home inspection business, they initially thought that a small space on a kitchen table in the family’s Tualatin home would work just fine. It didn’t. “Even if we had a room in (our) home, it’s still […]
Students Find Inspiration in the FEM in STEM Program-Western Oregon University student Victoria Rhine can’t summarize in a single sentence the importance the FEM in STEM program has had on her journey to complete bachelor degrees in computer science and social science this year. But she can explain how the program is an inspiration to her and fellow STEM students. “I would not […]
National Student Exchange Allows WOU Students to Explore New Cultures-The National Student Exchange (NSE) is a program that allows college students to study at another university for a partial or full school year. Participating universities are located both domestically in the United States, as well as in Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Canada. Where NSE differs from traditional study abroad programs […]
WOU WEEKLY ROUND-UP-Notices WUC CLOSED FOR THREE-DAY WEEKEND: The Werner University Center’s (WUC) hours for the three-day weekend are: closes at 5 p.m. Jan. 17 and is closed Jan. 19 to Jan. 20. The regular hours resume Jan. 21. LAST DAY TO ADD A CLASS: The deadline to add a course is Friday, Jan. 17. If you […]
Coos Bay Police Department Welcomes New Officer-By Nicholas A. Johnson, The World Last week the Coos Bay Police Department held a swearing in ceremony where Coos Bay Police Chief Gary McCullough welcomed the department’s new officer Chris Rule. Rule comes to the Coos Bay Police Department with about 10 years of experience working law enforcement, having spent eight of those years […]
WOU Honors the Work and Vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.-Western Oregon University’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration serves both as a tradition and a reminder. “It’s a tradition of celebrating and bringing the WOU community together to focus an incredible civil rights leader and activist, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,” said Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs Malissa Larson. Patrick Moser, assistant vice […]
Outdoor Adventures to Explore Near WOU-Growing up in southern Oregon, Western Oregon University senior Maddy Olson had heard of Silver Falls State Park, Opal Creek Scenic Recreation and Opal Creek Wilderness and Cascade Head Trail. Thanks to WOU’s Outdoor Program, a part of Campus Recreation, she has had the opportunity to hike all three places, discovering stunning waterfalls, magnificent ocean […]
WOU Welcomes Family and Friends-There are the many reasons Western Oregon University students Hailey Silberfarb and McKenzie Wolfe-Webb are eager to have their families visit during WOU Family Weekend later this month “Family weekend is filled with entertainment while also having much-needed breaks that allow your parents to help stock your fridge,” junior Wolfe-Webb said. “It’s nice to have […]
General education classes build foundation for career success-When Western Oregon University sophomore Maya Schlosser-Hall started college in 2018, she was on track to take four math classes to graduate as an education major. “Math is not my strong suit,” she said. “I was worried about taking four math classes because I was worried I wasn’t going to succeed in them and that […]
Priceless skill of perseverance-Everyone has setbacks that cause them to want to throw up their hands and yell, “I quit.” Perhaps it was after being told they weren’t smart, fast, talented or creative enough to succeed in their chosen path. There is a long list of well-known people who experienced failure including Mozart, Dr. Seuss, Oprah Winfrey, Michael […]
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Oregon’s ratification of the 19th Amendment-Lend your hands to help create a historical record celebrating the 100th anniversary of Oregon’s ratification of the 19th Amendment, which eventually placed women’s voting rights in the U.S. Constitution. Western Oregon University history professor Kimberly Jensen invites campus and community members to make a social justice art panel at noon on Tuesday, Jan. 14 […]
Here’s to a happier and healthier you in 2020-Achieve your goals to be happier and healthier in 2020 by discovering an activity at Western Oregon University’s Peter Courtney Health and Wellness Center, also known as the Courtney Center. “Exercise and physical activities can increase energy, reduce depression, anxiety and stress, create a positive mood, increase self-esteem and confidence, improve sleep, and support cognitive processes,” […]
WOU Announces New American Sign Language Assessment Service-Western Oregon University continues to be a leader in American Sign Language. Our Regional Resource Center on Deafness (RRCD) is the first to offer a nationwide ASL assessment service (called RSLA) in the western United States. The service uses Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI) conducted in ASL to assess the individuals’ ASL skills. The service […]
Western Oregon University Announces New American Sign Language Assessment Service-Western Oregon University’s (WOU) Regional Resource Center on Deafness (RRCD) is the first to offer a nationwide American Sign Language assessment service (RSLA) in the western United States. The service uses Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI) conducted in American Sign Language (ASL) model to assess the individuals’ ASL skills. The service has widespread value to […]
No Child Left Monolingual-Dr. Kim Potowski is eager to dispel several myths about languages in the U.S. and promote multilingualism. A professor of Hispanic linguistics at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Potowski is a renowned specialist in multilingualism and the founding director of her university’s Language in Context Research Group. Potowski will present No Child Left […]
Just apply – tips for scholarship applications-Western Oregon University Scholarship and Financial Aid Officer Travis Heide encourages students to apply for as many scholarships as they can throughout their college career. While there are more scholarships geared towards incoming freshmen students at WOU, Heide said there are plenty of scholarship opportunities for transfer and returning students. Heide recommends students to spend […]
Spend winter break applying to college-Dear high school senior, You’ve visited universities and narrowed your choices. Now, it’s time to start applying. Western Oregon University recommends high school seniors work on college applications during winter break. Here are some tips to complete your applications: Know the deadlines. Visit universities’ websites to find deadline information. Many colleges have multiple deadline options. […]
Winter Break: Organize your college game plan-High school seniors should take advantage of their winter break to invest in their future. While it’s a time to relax and have fun, it’s also an opportunity to organize materials for college applications and scholarships to avoid stressful late nights and looming deadlines. Here are a few tips recommended by advisers at Western Oregon […]
Leadership at WOU: An Alum’s Impact on Campus-“Leadership isn’t something you go into lightly. It’s a choice. We make a choice to be leaders.” Felicia Dickinson is a WOU alum who exemplifies student leadership. A native Oregonian and a transfer student from Lane Community College, she attended WOU for three years, with a major in Political Science and a minor in Communication […]
New master’s in Organizational Leadership provides foundation for tomorrow’s leaders-Western Oregon University professor David Foster explained leadership skills can be acquired in one of two ways – the college of hard knocks or preferably in WOU’s new master’s in Organizational Leadership program. “When people learn leadership skills in the college of hard knocks, they often make mistakes that have severe consequences,” Foster said. The […]
Holiday Events Around WOU-As the temperature begins to drop, a feeling of celebration spreads across campus. Even though students might be cramming for tests and spending long hours at the library, the campus is alight with the spirit of the season. From festive lights wrapped around the giant Sequoia tree to hot cocoa served in Caffé Allegro, signs […]
Weekly 5: Things to do at the Holiday Tree Lighting-Discover the essential ingredients for catching the holiday spirit at the 52nd annual Holiday Tree Lighting at Western Oregon University on Dec. 6. With a host of festive activities to entertain and delight you, here’s a game plan to enjoy WOU’s holiday traditions: Show your holiday and WOU spirit: Wear red or WOU apparel to […]
Major Myth Busting-Niki Weight is eager to bust three myths to hopefully help college students stop stressing so much about changing their major. National research indicates 80% of college students change their major at least once, adding it’s not uncommon for students to change their major three times. The director of Western Oregon University’s Student Success and […]
Gabbie Acevedo-Solis ’20-Future educator rises to all challenges As a senior majoring in middle/high school education with a concentration in social science and a minor in Spanish, Gabbie Acevedo-Solis’ dream job is teaching Latin American history in a language immersion program. Given her strong work ethic and impressive grade-point average, that goal seems well within reach. She’s […]
Same Tradition, New Opportunities-Since its founding in 1856, Western Oregon University has equipped the region’s young adults to serve the needs of the growing area. Even before Oregon was a state, students attended what was first known as Monmouth University to train as school teachers, a profession in high demand as people settled the Willamette Valley during the […]
IN MEMORIUM-1940s Macy (Elkins) Morse Alma Jean Watkins O’Meara (’42 bachelor’s) later known as Alma Jean Tipley (’65 masters) 1950s Don Carey 1970s Virginia Knapp Susan Esther Sproul 1980s Michael J. Mayfield 1990s Kathryn Meador Cheval 2000s Alan Boitz 2010s Donovan Gregg Marshal Leslie Evan Simonski-Davis Friends of WOU Emeritus Professor Dr. Louis Edward “Lou” […]
CLASS NOTES-1970s Linda Johnston ‘70 just completed 12 years of service on the Woodburn School Board. She has recently been appointed as garden coordinator for the First Presbyterian Church Community Garden. She works with students from Head Start through high school growing food for the local food bank. Sheila Daniels ’75, ’93, retired in 2017 after […]
Weekly 5: Safety prevention tips-Western Oregon University (WOU) was selected earlier this year as the safest college campus in Oregon. The award is based on statistics from the U.S. Department of Education’s Campus Safety and Security analysis and the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report. Our Campus Public Safety (CPS) Department keeps the WOU community safe and offers some tips to […]
Jeanne Carver ’75-Coach, teacher, businesswoman, and thrives on obstacles Jeanne (Zumwalt) Carver and her family moved around a lot, following the timber industry’s demand for new access roads to logging sites. “My father was a road contractor,” she explained. “He started his own company. It was a startup way back in the ’50s.” Carver’s mother was a […]
Howl Writers and Staff Net Honors- from Oregon Newspaper Publishers Association-Western’s student newspaper was first published Nov. 5, 1923, under the masthead The Breeze. Early editors envisioned the paper as “an organ of expression for all the students” and a way to improve the school, urging fellow students to subscribe so the paper could become a self-sustaining, student-led enterprise. That goal was reached in March […]
New Faces on Campus-This summer, Western Oregon University welcomed the new Dean of Library and Academic Innovation Michelle “Chelle” Batchelor. Her work at WOU will be focused on innovative academic resources that meet the demands of current and future students as well as support for faculty members who teach online courses. Batchelor had most recently been the interim […]
Big News: Western Oregon University in Salem-In the last edition of Western Edge, we told you about WOU’s expansion into Salem, where the university was leasing classroom space from the Willamette Education Service District. In September, WOU purchased a permanent space in downtown Salem: the historical Vick building on the corner of High and Trade streets. The building will get a […]
Former WOU Track Standout Still Breaking Records-Instead of hanging up her track spikes after college graduation, high jumper Alison Wood ’95 is carving out a successful career as a masters track athlete. Last spring at the World Championships in Poland, Wood set the women’s 45-49 age group indoor world record of 1.67 meters; earlier in the season, Wood broke the American […]
Community Builder: Bec Williams ’98-While pursuing a degree in health education with a minor in business, Bec Williams ’98 spent all four years at Western Oregon University working at Campus Recreation. Many years later, as owner of Eugene’s Playground Sports, which offers recreational sports leagues for adults, this experience has served her well. “I had a lot of skills […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Welcomes New Members Jerry Ambris and Linda Herrera-Western Oregon University welcomes Jerry Ambris of Habitat for Humanity of Mid-Willamette Valley and Linda Herrera of Atala Consulting, LLC to its Board of Trustees. The Oregon Senate confirmed Ambris and Herrera on Nov. 20. Ambris has worked a decade for Habitat for Humanity, most recently as the executive director for the Mid-Willamette Valley affiliate. […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees approves Aquarium Science program-During its quarterly meeting Wednesday, the Western Oregon University Board of Trustees approved a new Bachelor of Science in Aquarium Science that encompasses a partnership with Oregon Coast Community College. In the new academic program, WOU students will study three years in Monmouth followed by a final year at OCCC where they will take their […]
WOU 5: Celebrate Thanksgiving Weekend-Will you be sticking around Monmouth for Thanksgiving? A game plan is the secret ingredient to celebrating Thanksgiving weekend at Western Oregon University and nearby towns. The first rule of the weekend is to make it your own and do what you want to do. You have been working hard with school and this is […]
Weekly 5: Meet Five WOU Veterans-In honor of Veterans Day and the activities hosted by our Veterans Resource Center throughout this week, we wanted to introduce you to five veterans who are part of our WOU community. Thank you to these students and staff for talking with us, and to all veterans for your service. Brian Ulbricht Brian Ulbricht, a […]
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play-Experience the behind-the-scene escapades of a 1946 radio broadcast by attending the Western Oregon University Theatre Department’s presentation of It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play on Nov. 14-16 and Nov. 20-23. WOU Theatre Professor and Director Kent Neely said the live radio play is a great start to the holiday season for anyone who […]
Mission to serve others-Colin Haines is now a different kind of warrior. “When I was in the military, I was taking care of some blatantly obvious physical wounds,” Haines, 35, said. “Now, I am caring for the invisible wounds.” The director of Western Oregon University’s Veterans Resource Center (VRC), Haines served 10 years as a U.S. Army airborne […]
WOU Alum Volunteers with Peace Corps in Eswatini-Amy Watkins, a 2017 Community Health Education graduate, is currently serving with the Peace Corps in Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland. In Eswatini, she is participating in the Community HIV/AIDS Mitigation Project (CHAMP), where she works to support individuals living with HIV, as well as implement projects in order to prevent the spread of the […]
Building and navigating pathways for students’ success-Shelve all the notions you may have about what it takes to properly manage a college library. Especially now that Chelle Batchelor has taken the helm at Hamersly Library. With more than 25 years of experience working in college libraries, Batchelor was chosen as Western Oregon University’s dean of Library and Academic Innovation, a new […]
Author Advice: From Writers for Writers-To celebrate National Author’s Day on November 1, we sought advice from campus authors (fiction, poetry, academic work, etc.) to feature, in order to highlight writers’ accomplishments and passions, as well as stoke the interest of newer writers. Here is what they had to offer. Plotting Advice: “Make an outline first – then add by […]
Two Young Adult Authors Found Inspiration at Western Oregon-A 17-year-old gravedigger and three futuristic teens can trace their stories’ beginnings to their authors’ experiences at Western Oregon University. The gravedigger protagonist belongs to the imagination of Emily Lloyd-Jones ’10, and the space-age tech and steampunk-style clockwork teens to Rosiee Thor ’14. Both authors released young adult novels this fall. Lloyd-Jones’ fourth novel, The […]
Paranormal Tales of Todd Hall-Written by Natalie Dean Todd Hall rests at Western Oregon University, built as the first dorm in 1912 and was named in honor of Jessica Todd, who was the first Dean of Women. Her legacy lingers in the building’s halls due to her well-known discipline, even after her retirement in 1931. She made sure the […]
The Haunting of Todd Hall: An Interview with Natalie Dean-During October, there is an abundance of ghostly, paranormal, and spiritual content to consume. The afterlife and the make-believe take center stage during America’s preparation for the frightful and fun-filled night of All Hallows’ Eve. Humans have displayed an interest in the afterlife since the early days of society, ranging from the lore-based traditions of […]
PHS Grad Lucas Sinclair Returns as Police Officer-By Brad Fuqua; published in the Philomath Express Patrolling Philomath’s streets and responding to calls overnight on graveyard shifts, 23-year-old rookie police officer Lucas Sinclair has a high degree of familiarity with the lay of the land. A little more than five years earlier, Sinclair had received his Philomath High School diploma to embark on […]
Fun Fall and Halloween Activities in the Area-Story by Cheyan Swan All around campus, temperatures are dropping, the leaves overhead are changing colors, and Halloween decorations are popping up in town. Fall has arrived, and with it are the many exciting and fun harvest activities in the greater Monmouth area. Local farms and businesses offer affordable activities for WOU students and beyond, […]
Cybersecurity Program Perfect Fit for Transfers-As the father of three children, Matt Wick, 29, wanted the quickest route to earn a degree that would allow him to “work with his brain instead of his back.” He was surprised to discover that pathway would lead him to Western Oregon University. Wick had worked in construction and owned a small business for […]
WOU provides support and pathways for transfer students-Transfer students were invited to “Celebrate Your Transfer Story” at WOU’s Transfer Pathways inaugural celebration of National Transfer Student Week (NTSW) Oct. 21-25. An annual event by the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students, NTSW celebrates transfer students and the professionals who support them on their journey. At WOU, the goal is to welcome […]
Third-Generation WOU Student is Student Leader-A third-generation student, Erik Morgan Jr. can pinpoint the events that propelled him from being “only partly politically aware” to being elected Associated Students of Western Oregon (ASWOU) president. At Stayton High School, Morgan Jr. played soccer and acted in school plays. Student government wasn’t on his radar. Not knowing what he wanted to study […]
Interns aid Scappoose growth-By Anna Del Savio, published in the Columbia County Spotlight During a period of rapid growth, including residential and industrial, team of new city interns sets a productive pace. Now assistant to City Manager Michael Sykes, Alexandra Rains started working for the City of Scappoose as an intern in 2015. Rains was working toward her […]
Weekly 5: Hamersly Library-Five things to know about the Hamersly Library It’s a friendly and supportive place for students, faculty and staff members to receive assistance from librarians who are passionate about their work and serving students. With art to historic displays, the Hamersly Library also is a good place to go for inspiration. Pick a floor and […]
Preview of Homecoming 2019-Whether it is strolling down memory lane, discovering traditions or cheering at the football game, Western Oregon University’s 2019 Homecoming is an opportunity for creates a camaraderie for community members, alumni and students. Western Oregon University’s 2019 Homecoming theme “Wild, Wild Western,” provides plenty of opportunities for students, alumni and community members to celebrate their school […]
Western Oregon University receives $1 million grant to support rehabilitation and mental health counseling-Western Oregon University’s (WOU) Regional Resource Center on Deafness (RRCD) has received a $1 million grant from the federal Rehabilitation Service Administration to support its Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling (RMHC) Program. The grant begins immediately and runs through Sept. 30, 2024. RRCD will receive $200,000 annually for the grant, which supports RMHC students with […]
Western Oregon University buys Vick building in downtown Salem to expand its Salem presence-Western Oregon University (WOU) finalized today the purchase of the historical Vick building in downtown Salem at 525 Trade St. WOU’s Board of Trustees voted Wednesday to approve the purchase. The Vick building will be WOU’s Salem home for several programs, including the brand new Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership. “We’re thrilled to be […]
30 Days to WOU: Countdown for Incoming Students-Are you about to start your first term at Western Oregon University? We want to help prepare you for move-in day, New Student Week, and the rest of your time at WOU with a 30-day countdown to move-in day. We’re talking all about living on campus, getting involved, places to eat on campus, and much […]
Hamlet performed on campus in outdoor production-Looking for something fun to do over summer weekends? You’re in luck! The Valley Shakespeare Company (VSC) is performing their rendition of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet during the last weekend of July and the first weekend of August. The VSC’s goal is to “[encourage] students, families and community members, young and old, to join in the […]
Western Oregon University Trustees Approve Strategic Tapping of Reserves as Legislature Mulls Funding-The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees on Wednesday approved a deficit budget for 2019-2020, which reflects a previously approved 2.33% increase in resident undergraduate tuition. The budget passed even as the Oregon Legislature has yet to release its Public University Support Fund. WOU was one of the first state universities to finalize its new […]
Grad Profile: Caitlyn Nakatsukasa-Caitlyn Nakatsukasa is a graduating student from Honolulu, Hawaii and will obtain a degree in Business with a minor in Organizational Leadership. After her graduation, she is wasting no time and going straight to grad school! Why did you choose WOU? WOU made it very affordable for me to attend and receive a great education […]
Grad Profile: Matthew Ciraulo-Matthew Ciraulo is a graduating student from Murrieta, California and will earn a degree in Sociology with a minor in History. Why did you choose WOU? Originally I planned to teach high school history. WOU was brought to my attention as a progressive and reputable education program. Once I got the opportunity to tour the school, […]
Grad Profile: Martha Lucia-Martha Lucia is a student originally from Colombia, South America and she’s been living in the United States for the last 19 years. Married, her husband Greg has been her great support, along with her children, Avalon and Ethan, and her brother and family in Colombia. She will receive a B.S. in Early Childhood Elementary […]
Grad Profile: Jocelyn Garcia-Jocelyn Garcia is a first-generation student graduating with a degree in Visual Communication Design and a minor in The Arts. She has also been recognized on the Honor Roll and the President’s list multiple times. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because of its great art program and community. Since it was very […]
Grad Profile: Daisy Chavez Guzman-Daisy Chavez Guzman is a first-generation student graduating with a double major degree in Psychology and Spanish. Why did you choose WOU? I decided to attend WOU because of the size of the campus, I wanted to attend a university that was small enough for me to but big enough to meet diverse students. I also loved […]
Grad Profile: Janie Ramirez Manzo-Janie Ramirez Manzo is a first-generation college student who will be obtaining a degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology. Why did you choose WOU? The small class sizes and campus was really important to me; it was my most affordable option What do you love most about WOU? I love all the […]
Grad Profile: Mandy Abel-Mandy Abel from Sherwood, Oregon, will be graduating from WOU with a degree in Earth Science and a minor in Public Policy and Administration Why did you choose WOU? It was close to home, which was very important to me, had a small average class size, and is a public university so I knew it […]
Grad Profile: Jaide Wa’a-Jaide Wa’a, originally from Nanakuli, Hawaii is a first-year student who will be graduating from WOU with a degree in Biology with a concentration on Pre-Medicine and a minor in Chemistry. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I liked its location in Oregon, the size of the campus, the community, and its sizable […]
Grad Profile: Demeter Finch-Demeter is a first-generation honors student here at WOU who will be obtaining a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Special Education and Humanities with a minor in Spanish. Why did you choose WOU? The American Sign Language/English Interpreting program. What do you love most about WOU? The professors and overall elevated level […]
Grad Profile: Tristan Aldous-Tristan Aldous, from Drain, Oregon, will earn a degree in Communication Studies with a minor in Organizational Leadership from WOU. Why did you choose WOU? The reason I chose WOU isn’t the reason I stayed. I originally came to WOU because I was a Theatre Arts major and the program here. I chose WOU because of […]
Grad Profile: Susana Venegas-Susana Vergas will be leaving WOU with a degree in Social Science with a focus in Criminal Justice and two minors in Forensic Psychology and Spanish. Originally from Salem, Oregon, Susana is a proud first-generation student who attended all her four years at WOU. Why did you choose WOU? Western was my first college choice […]
Grad Profile: Ethan Novak-Ethan Novak is a student from Imperial, California who will be graduating with an Elementary Master of Arts in Teaching. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU after listening to a presentation they gave to the Corvallis School District on their brand new eMAT program. It was truly everything I was looking for in a […]
Grad Profile: Tiffany Lewis-Tiffany Lewis is a graduating student from Tacoma, Washington. She will be obtaining a degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education with an ESOL endorsement and a minor in French. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I knew that I wanted to be a teacher and their education program is nationally recognized! I also […]
Grad Profile: Alexis Klatt-Alexis Klatt is a first generation student from Philomath, Oregon who will be graduating with a degree in Early Childhood Studies; Therapeutic care and trauma-informed practices. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because of its small class sizes, student-teacher relationships, beautiful campus, and opportunities within the Education Program. What do you love most […]
Grad Profile: Daniel Sampson-Daniel Sampson, after maintaining academic honor roll from spring 2016 to spring 2018, will be graduating with a degree in Contemporary Music with a Jazz and Popular Music Emphasis. He is originally from Newport, Oregon and transferred to Western Oregon University from the Oregon Coast Community College located there. Why did you choose WOU? I […]
Grad Profile: Sarah Hughes-Sarah Hughes is a graduating honors student from Salem Oregon who will earn a degree in psychology with a minor in writing. Why did you choose WOU? For the small and welcoming campus. What do you love most about WOU? The small classes sizes are great for learning, but they’re even better for building connections […]
Grad Profile: Rachelle Austin-Rachelle Austin, from Keizer, is graduating this June after four years studying Chemistry with a minor in physics. She transferred from University of Oregon. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I was looking for a smaller town and smaller, more close-knit university. I didn’t really enjoy having classes of 500+ students and […]
Grad Profile: Tyler Jones-Tyler Jones, from Bend, is finishing degrees in Mathematics and Business with a concentration in accounting. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU to fulfill my dream of collegiate running as part of the cross country and track team. What do you love most about WOU? I think the campus and class size is […]
Grad Profile: Ailyn Angel-Ailyn Angel is a graduating student from Hillsboro and will be obtaining a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Humanities and Social Science. She is a first-generation student who transferred from Portland Community College in fall 2017. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I was initially interested in the Education […]
Grad Profile: Jacoby “Coby” Cid-Jacoby “Coby” Cid is a transfer student from Leeward Community College graduating this year with a degree in Visual Communication Design and a full-time position as a digital communication specialist at Maps Credit Union. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I came to play football and heard great things about the VCD […]
Western Oregon University Mourns the Loss of Long-Time Supporter Sen. Jackie Winters-Western Oregon University was deeply saddened to learn of Oregon Sen. Jackie Winters’ death Wednesday after a courageous battle with cancer. Winters, a longtime WOU supporter, was known for her work to further higher education in Oregon. Not only did Sen. Winters represent District 10, the region where WOU is located, but she also gave […]
Grad Profile: Libbie Hoene-Libbie Hoene is a graduating student from Lebanon, Oregon and is completing a bachelor’s in Communications with a minor in Organizational Leadership. Why did you choose WOU? I originally picked to come to WOU because I was playing volleyball at here at the D2 level. What do you love most about WOU? I love the […]
Students Learn Computer Coding with Dance-REDMOND, OR — Crook County Middle School computer science students spent Thursday at COCC-Redmond, learning to make a stick figure dance to the song “Gangnam Style.” They worked with Western Oregon University’s iLumiDance team to code lights on a life-sized stick man, to flash with the beat of the song. The 34 kids were divided into six teams and […]
Oregon’s Public Universities Contemplate Tuition Increases-Oregon’s public universities are looking at one major way to stay solvent next year – tuition increases. Some universities are contemplating double digit increases or waiting until May to make their decisions, hoping they may receive more state support. Portland State University is considering tuition increases of at least 14%. Eastern Oregon University in La Grande is among […]
Western Oregon University and Linn-Benton Community College to Announce Degree Partnership Program-Western Oregon University and Linn-Benton Community College on May 10 will finalize a partnership that makes it easier for LBCC students to transfer to WOU, a four-year university, and earn a bachelor’s degree in the expected timeline. The Degree Partnership Program (DPP) between the two institutions marks a collaboration that ensures students who begin at […]
Grad Profile: Alison Nelke-Alison Nelke is from Albany, Oregon and will be graduating with a bachelor’s in Business with an Accounting concentration, as well as a minor in History. Why did you choose WOU? I was recruited to play basketball for the women’s basketball team, and then I fell in love with the campus. WOU’s Business major with […]
Congratulations to the 2019 Peter Sears Poetry Prize Winners-The English Studies Department announced the winners of the 2019 Peter Sears Poetry Prize. The first prize went to Nicole Caldwell, second prize to Tricia Manzano and third prize to Laura Wildfang. The three winning poems are below. The competition received over 60 poems from students. An English Studies committee selected 10 poems that were […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Approves Undergrad Resident Tuition Increase of 2.33%-The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees approved an increase of 2.33%, or $4 per credit, for Oregon resident undergraduate students in the 2019-20 academic year at its quarterly meeting Wednesday. WOU is one of the first state public universities to finalize its new tuition rate in advance of the Oregon Legislature’s budget decision for […]
WOU in the News: Oakland’s Dominique Harrison Among Sugar Skulls Newbies Hoping to Make Instant Impact-Roster turnover happens often in any nonmajor professional sport. One week a player could be the best for a franchise and by the following week, they can find a new opportunity in a different league. It’s “the nature of the business” as Sugar Skulls coach Marcus Coleman puts it. When the Sugar Skulls (3-2) host […]
CLASS NOTES-1960s Cori Frauendiener ’67 retired in March from Maps Credit Union, where she’d worked for 35 years, most recently as director of education partnerships. The credit union has established a $5,000 scholarship in her honor for education students attending WOU. 1970s Steve Lamb ’75 has published the book Engaging Collective Will for Student Success.Steve has retired […]
In memoriam-1940s Lenora J. Bond 1950s Irene (Gerold) Hake Lafona Jensen Mardene G. Keveren Eugene O. Owens Betty A. Reeves Helen Richard Arlene Jensen Ross Raymond A. Scofield LaVerne A. Streight Harry F. Sievers Ella M. Swanson 1960s Elizabeth Bachman Jack L. Gorman Ronald G. Miller Rudy H. Sonnen 1970s James R. Ammon […]
WOU in the News: Above and Beyond: WMS Mentor Honored-Matt Hurst has always gone beyond the call of duty to help the teachers and students with whom he works. And back in February, it was clear that his dedication didn’t go unnoticed. Hurst, who is an instructional mentor at Whiteaker Middle School, was honored with the 2019 Outstanding Technology Educator of the Year award, […]
WOU in the News: Stephenson Joins Volleyball Staff at WOU-MONMOUTH — Western Oregon head volleyball coach Stacy Metro announced the addition of Traci Stephenson to her staff on Monday. Stephenson will join the Wolves as an assistant coach for the 2019 season, the first under Metro’s leadership. Stephenson joins the Wolves’ staff after eight seasons as the head coach at Chemeketa Community College in […]
WOU in the News: Outdoor Track & Field Preview-MONMOUTH — There’s nothing like coming back to the roots from which you came. Samuel Cole, a sophomore on Western Oregon University’s track and field team, knows that to be true. After spending a year at Clackamas Community College, he came back to Independence, where he was born and raised, to attend classes at WOU […]
WESTERN OREGON UNIVERSITY SALEM-Western Oregon University has been located in Monmouth since 1856, but in 2019, the university also planted its flag in the nearby capital of Salem. WOU’s second location is in the south part of the city, conveniently located and designed for students seeking to start or finish their degrees. WOU classes started in Salem in […]
Winningham Family “All in for WOU”-“My favorite thing about WOU is that the students who come here have the opportunity to be launched…” Rob Winningham took over as provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at the beginning of March, but he has been a fixture at Western Oregon University for nearly 20 years. He started in 2000, just a […]
Athletic training team builds on foundation-From left: Bo Johnson, Chris Thew, Alyssa Asay and Brandon Walcott-Ayers Long-time Head Athletic Trainer Kurtis Kidd retired in 2018 after 30 years at WOU; that kind of longevity could be intimidating for athletic trainers who follow in his footsteps. The current team doesn’t look worried. They appreciate the processes Kidd created and plan […]
Honoring Tina Fuchs-In February, Tina Fuchs, associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students, received the Kay Rich Lifetime Achievement award from the Northwest Association of College and University Housing Officers (NWACUHO). The award recognizes the contributions that individual housing professionals make as leaders and mentors throughout the course of their careers. Fuchs has served […]
Dyed in the wool Wolves: The Hamors-Donna and Clark Hamor recently became Sustainers with the WOU Foundation, but their support for the university goes back for decades, a fact borne out by Clark’s collection of time-hopping WOU clothing. Donna, a WOU grad from the OCE era who earned a bachelor’s in 1970 and a master’s in 1976, and Clark, who graduated […]
Dance program takes leap into future-The Western Oregon University Dance program has graduated hundreds of students into careers such as studio owner, dance instructor, professional dancer and choreographer. Starting with the 2019-20 academic year, however, students in the program will have two new emphases to consider, each with its own important path to a job in dance. “We always had […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Welcomes New Member Doug Morse-Western Oregon University welcomes Doug Morse of Columbia Sportswear to its Board of Trustees. Morse was confirmed by the Oregon Senate in late March. Currently serving as a senior vice president at Portland-based Columbia Sportswear, Morse brings nearly 25 years of business experience from the company to his position on the WOU board. He will […]
WOU in the News: Spearing the Competition-MONMOUTH — Darian Wilson had an impressive start to her collegiate athletic career on the Western Oregon University track and field team last year, when she competed in the NCAA Division II National Championship for javelin, came in seventh, and picked up an All-American accolade along the way. A freshman then, Wilson said she had […]
WOU in the News: Slippery Nature of ‘Sensual Fish’-“It’s kind of a slippery topic,” Henry Hughes told me Tuesday, in a conversation about his upcoming lecture “The Sensual Fish.” At its heart, the April 2 lecture is about fish. It’s part of the Montana State University Library Trout and Salmonid Lecture Series. But it’s also about sex. “The wet, dark, mysterious, fishy and primal […]
WOU in the News: New Performing Arts Director Settles into Position at PHS-In the fifth grade, Erica Epperley decided she wanted to play the flute. The next year, she joined the choir. “I knew right away that I wanted to do music in some aspect,” said Epperley, who took over as Philomath High School’s performing arts director this academic year. “I got my bachelor’s and master’s in […]
WOU in the News: Competing Against Cancer-What could be worse than finding out that you have cancer? For Anne Williams, it was being told that she would not be able to teach this year at Lebanon High School. For Williams, 42, the diagnosis of colon cancer came as a relief after she had started to not feel well last July. “It […]
WOU in the News: Athlete Quietly Clears Hurdles-In one sense, Janna Vander Meulen is an accidental hurdler. Throughout high school in Puyallup, Washington, and into college at Western Oregon, soccer was her passion and focus. Racing over hurdles was fun, but just something that helped her stay in shape and hang out with friends. A decade later, Vander Meulen is an American […]
WOU in the News: Who Will Lead Our Schools?-An opportunity to meet and greet the remaining candidates for Gervais School District superintendent drew dozens to the district’s elementary school Thursday, Feb. 28. Attendees with an appetite enjoyed a modest dinner, and seconds if they liked, prior to being entertained by successive performances from each of a trio of educators vying to lead the […]
WOU in the News: Heine Joins PIDB as VP-Hagatna, Guam- Pacific Islands Development Bank (PIDB) is proud to announce and welcome Dwight P. Heine as the Bank’s Vice President. In that capacity, Mr. Heine will be assisting the President & CEO in leading the overall management and operation of the bank. Specific duties and responsibilities include strategic planning and budgeting, lending, staff management […]
Western Oregon University Hosting Regional Rugby Championships this Weekend-Western Oregon University (WOU) is hosting a weekend of men’s rugby on campus for the National Small College Rugby Organization’s (NSCRO) 2019 Challenge Cup Pacific Coast Region Championship on Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31. The four teams competing at the championship are WOU, Central Oregon Community College, Humboldt State University, and Azusa Pacific […]
WOU in the News: Oakland Raiders Sign Wide Receiver Tyrell Williams-ALAMEDA, Calif. – The Oakland Raiders have signed unrestricted free agent WR Tyrell Williams, the club announced Wednesday. Originally an undrafted free agent following the 2015 NFL Draft, Williams signed with the San Diego Chargers and spent the first four seasons (2015-18) of his career with the club. Over his four-year career, Williams has appeared […]
WOU in the News: New Owner for Iconic Downtown Albany Barbershop-Debbie George remembers riding her bike into downtown Albany and seeing a barber pole spinning outside Parnell Person’s shop like a beacon, visible from blocks away. Person died Dec. 6 at age 85, but his barbershop survives. And George is the new owner and clipping hair at the Personal Barber Shop, 335 Second Ave. SW. […]
WOU in the News: Race to Redemption: Taft grad Arce-Torres Puts Future Ahead of Past-Few people understand the importance of getting from here to there the fastest than 2018 Taft High graduate Gabe Arce-Torres. Among the state’s speediest sprinters on last spring’s Tigers track and field team, Arce-Torres was virtually unstoppable in bursting from starting block to finishing tape in Oregon’s small-school ranks. Then, somebody threw a roadblock in […]
WOU in the News: Think Too Much: ‘Governing Oregon’ Offers Vital Political Insights-Earlier this year, the Oregon State University Press delivered a gift to every member of the state Legislature: A copy of a just-published book, “Governing Oregon: Continuity and Change,” featuring 19 insightful essays on the state’s politics. For anyone who’s interested in how Oregon got to this precise political point, a fifth of the way […]
WOU in the News: To Improve Teacher Diversity, Salem-Keizer Focusing on Training its Own Students, Classroom Aides-Jessica Zamarron was inspired by her first-grade teacher at Swegle Elementary. Seeing Karina Rodriguez, another bilingual Latina, in front of the classroom, Zamarron knew her teacher had similar life experiences. If she had a problem at home or needed advice, Rodriguez was the teacher she went to. “I related to her,” Zamarron said. She remembered […]
WOU in the News: Kaiser Permanente Names Patient Care Leader-Tae Abate has been named care experience practice leader of the Kaiser Permanente San Rafael Medical Center, overseeing development, planning and oversight of patient care experience. Abate, who has made a career as a program coordinator and consultant for gender equality, violence against women issues and LGBTQ and human rights, is responsible for patient satisfaction. […]
20 Questions with New Provost Dr. Rob Winningham-We’re thrilled that Dr. Rob Winningham is now serving as Western Oregon University’s provost. Winningham joined WOU in 2000 as an assistant professor of psychology. Over the years, this homegrown leader moved up the ranks to full professor, chair of the Behavioral Sciences Division, then interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, […]
A Tour of WOU: Salem-WOU comes to YOU! Learn more about Western Oregon University offering classes in Salem. To enroll, visit wou.edu/salem.
Giving Day: March 5, 2019-Save the date for Western Oregon University’s annual Giving Day on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Learn more at wou.edu/givingday. Check out our toolkit on that site for resources you can use to help spread the word.
Preview for SOAR 2019-Welcome to SOAR: Summer Orientation Advising & Registration at Western Oregon University. This event helps get you ready for fall term. Are you ready to become a Wolf? Visit our Admissions page and apply today.
An evening with Ayad Akhtar-A preview for the 2019 Jensen Lecture featuring Pulitzer prize-winning playwright Ayad Akhtar on Tuesday, April 9 at 7 p.m. in Rice Auditorium at WOU. Visit wou.edu/jensenlecture to learn more.
Dr. Rob Winningham Begins New Position as Provost at Western Oregon University-Dr. Rob Winningham began his position March 1 as provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at Western Oregon University. Winningham previously served in that post on an interim basis since July 1, 2018. Winningham started at Western Oregon University in 2000 as an assistant professor of psychology. In the ensuing years, he earned tenure […]
Top 5 Tips for Strong Scholarship Applications-March 1 is major deadline for many scholarship applications (including at WOU), so this week can be a stressful time for lots of incoming freshmen–and returning students as well. Although there are plenty of scholarships geared to specific majors, backgrounds and schools, every college student should be able to ferret out a few that pertain […]
Top 5 Tips for College Scholarship Application Essays-Right now, scholarship applicants everywhere are tempted to tax their brains and wring out the perfect essay, which they will then show to 10 people who will transform the words into poetic prose that not only won’t resemble the original, but probably won’t resemble the writer. Don’t do it. Yes, it helps to have proofreaders, […]
Top 5 Ways You Will Change in College-Most high school graduates believe they have a pretty good grasp on who they are, what’s important to them and what beliefs they hold dear. But ask any college graduate, and he or she will tell you how much they changed while in school. In this case, change is a good thing! Here are some […]
Top 5 Tips for Finding College Scholarships-The struggle is real: Most students heading into the world of higher education are seriously worried about building up a bunch of debt while earning their degrees. It’s a well-founded fear for many people, as tuitions continue to rise across the nation. Fortunately, there are more resources than ever for students who are looking for […]
Top 5 Reasons a Four-Year University is the Ideal Place to Earn a Degree-Students graduating high school have many choices for seeking a college degree. They can go to a traditional four-year university to earn a bachelor’s degree; start at a community college and then transfer to a four-year university; get a two-year associate’s degree; seek vocational training or take courses entirely online. Only students and their families […]
WOU in the News: Zach Ayers Finds His ‘Perfect Fit’ as Browns Scout-Football scouting is what Zach Ayers calls his “perfect fit” of a career. The South Albany High School graduate loves to travel, talking with and meeting new people and watching football. Ayers played soccer first as a youngster growing up in Albany, but he moved on to football in middle school when that was offered. […]
WOU in the News: New Venture in Philomath Offers an Opportunity to Unleash Creativity-During their formative years, Lori Paul and Chelsea Kirkaldie each had experiences that led to discovering their artistic selves. Family members and art teachers were among those early influences that instilled a love for creativity that continues to this day. With a nonprofit venture they’ve called MAXtivity now open in Philomath, they hope others will […]
Western Oregon University Selected to Host 2019 Men’s PacCoast Region Rugby Championship-The National Small College Rugby Organization (NSCRO) announced that Western Oregon University, located in Monmouth, OR, has been selected as the host of NSCRO’s 2019 Challenge Cup Pacific Coast Region Championship. The men’s 15s competition is scheduled for Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31, and will feature four teams including Western Oregon and Central […]
WOU in the News: Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union CEO Retires After 43 Years of Service-PALMER— Al Strawn stepped down from his position as CEO of the Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union in October. He is still figuring out what his retirement is going to look like in the coming years but he does know one thing — he enjoys having more time on his hands. “I’m discovering that I […]
Top 5 College-Related Things to do During Winter Break-The weeks from mid-December to New Years Day are a terrific time to knock out some of the tasks related to preparing for your college years. We’ve compiled this handy list of steps you can get done between sipping cocoa and watching movies, no matter where you are in the college-prep process. Just getting started […]
Jones named Elite 90 Award winner for NCAA Men’s Cross Country-PITTSBURGH, Pa.—Tyler Jones, a senior at Western Oregon University, is the recipient of the Elite 90 award for the 2018 NCAA Division II Men’s Cross Country Championship. Jones, majoring in mathematics, currently carries a 4.00 GPA. Jones was presented with the award during the championship festivities on Saturday. Jones qualified for the NCAA DII National […]
WOU Alum Strives for Stardom-Oregon City native Hailey Verhaalen ’15 left Western Oregon University with a degree in social science, and she said the concepts she learned during her coursework have proven invaluable. But she’s not working in social science at the moment. It seems her passion for music has taken her career path in a completely different direction. […]
Class Notes-1950s Janice Kenison Cole ’59 is retired and living in McMinnville. She taught school for 30 years in Salem, Baker City, Dayton and McMinnville before retiring 17 years ago. 1960s The work of late artist Rick Bartow ’69 was featured during August and September at the Newport Visual Arts Center. The exhibition, From the Heart: […]
WOU education excellence doesn’t take summers off-Western Oregon University hosts a lot of groups, conferences and trainings during the summer each year. While most of the sidewalks are quiet, some corners of campus are hosting Zimbabwean cultural celebrations or American Sign Language trainings or high school wrestling camps. In nearly every case, the gatherings happening on campus are educational in nature, […]
A Special Thank You: Dr. Richard Woodcock-At the 2018 President’s Club Dinner in September, the Western Oregon University Foundation was honored to have Dr. Richard Woodcock in attendance. Woodcock, who is now in his 90s and lives in San Diego, has been a longtime benefactor of the university. This year, he gifted $1 million that will support underserved, diverse students who […]
Challenge Accepted-Ryanne (Huffman) Whitaker ’19 is a hometown girl, having graduated from Central High School and playing three years at second base for the Western Oregon Softball team. She said that, during high school, she didn’t see college in her future. Yet here she is, three years later and about to earn her degree in social […]
Morton Fundraiser Reaches, Surpasses Goal-In the spring 2018 edition of Western Edge, an article highlighted the efforts of a group of alums to raise money for the Jack Morton Memorial Lobby in the upcoming Welcome Center on campus. The group was just a few thousand dollars short of its $150,000 goal, which was established in honor of former Registrar […]
Long-time WOU Employees Choose Retirement-Every June, popular WOU faculty and staff members choose to hang up their higher education hats and retire to a life of relaxation, grandkids and travel. In June 2018, a special retirement option prompted several employees who had been at Western for decades—and who have had countless interactions with students—bowed out for retirement. Depending when […]
Designing for the Future-The Western Oregon University campus may be filled with stately brick buildings that seem as though they’ve been in place for decades—and in many cases, they have—but in truth, the 157 acres that comprise the grounds and buildings continue to evolve each year. Last year brought the opening of the new Student Health and Counseling […]
Western Oregon University Announces New Salem Presence in Partnership with WESD-Western Oregon University will begin offering classes in Salem beginning January 2019 at the Willamette Education Service District building on Pringle Road. The number of WOU offerings in Salem will increase gradually, with a much larger range of classes available starting fall term 2019. WOU:Salem courses are designed to help working adults get the higher […]
WOU in the News: Sirens sound change for ‘widows’-By Audrey Caro, Polk County Itemizer-Observer MONMOUTH — The Susan B. Anthony Society for the Sisters of Gertrude Stein is meeting for their annual quiche breakfast at Western Oregon University — for the next couple of weeks. Set in 1956, “5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche” captures a moment in time between five women, who refer […]
Utah Transplant Putting Down Roots in Monmouth, WOU Advising Center-New Director of Student Success and Advising Niki Weight describes herself as a small-town girl, growing up, as she did, in tiny Driggs, Idaho. It’s one of the things that drew her to Monmouth and her new position at Western Oregon University. The move was a return to her town-size comfort zone after years living […]
WOU Honors Major University Benefactors at Annual Event-Western Oregon University celebrated scores of donors Sept. 21 at its annual President’s Club Dinner on the university campus. More than 125 people attended the event, which highlights donors who generously supported WOU with significant financial gifts in 2017-2018. Dr. Richard Woodcock, who made the largest single gift of $1 million, attended the dinner, which […]
Peace Corps Offers Life Skills, First Job After Graduation-Many Western Oregon University graduates have jobs lined up before they even leave campus. Others plan to go on to grad school or otherwise further their educations. A small group, however, chooses a different route; they enroll in the Peace Corps. The Peace Corps was created in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, and the […]
WOU in the News: Newland Retires from Smith Fine Arts Series-By Audrey Caro Polk County Itemizer-Observer MONMOUTH — Sandy Newland is retiring from Western Oregon University at the end of August, again. The first time was about four years ago. “I was manager of donor relations when I retired,” Newland said. “They asked me whether I would just consider doing part time in the Smith […]
Baumgartner Relinquishes Board Chair but Continues to Serve WOU-Jim Baumgartner ‘81, an attorney and Western Oregon University alum, just finished up a four-year stint as chairman of the Board of Trustees. His time on the board is not over, though, as he was also appointed to another four-year term as an at-large trustee. Baumgartner is proud of what the board has accomplished in […]
Supporting Students through Leadership Training and Advising-Associate Director of Student Engagement Megan Habermann was honored to win the 2018 Frank Harris Outstanding Student Government Advisor Award earlier this year from the National Association Campus Activities, and the kind words shared by her nominators went straight to her heart, she said. Former ASWOU Presidents Cynthia Olivares and Jessica Freeman wrote warm recommendations […]
WOU in the News: Monticello Park Debuts Fall Prevention and Memory Program for Public-Prestige Monticello Park senior care center in Longview is rolling out a new program for the public this month aimed at one of older adults’ biggest fears: falling. Studies indicate between 30 percent and 50 percent of elderly people fear falling, and it’s easy to understand why. The average hospital cost for a fall-related injury […]
Q&A with Retiring Bob Hautala, Associate Professor of Health and Exercise Science-Update 12/17/18: With heavy hearts, we report that Bob Hautala passed away from an accident a few days ago. We encourage you to comment on this post with your memories of beloved Dr. H. A memorial fund has also been set up in his honor with the WOU Foundation. If you’d like to give to […]
Q&A with Retiring Kevin Hughes, Landscape Maintenance Supervisor-Kevin Hughes could regularly be spotted out and about on campus as he took care of our beautiful grounds (or dressed in a suit using our school colors on Commencement day). He always offered a hello and warm smile to those he passed and has been a fixture on campus for decades. Hughes is among […]
Western Oregon University Welcomes Four New Trustees, Names Board Chair-Western Oregon University’s Board of Trustees will welcome several new members in coming weeks as terms expired and the governor made new appointments. In July, the governance panel will welcome Trustee Zellee Allen, the co-CEO and founder of Partnerships in Community Living in Monmouth. Allen earned his bachelor’s degree at WOU in 1993 and won […]
Staff Excellence Award: Jeanie Stuntzner-The Mario and Alma Pastega Sta Excellence Award honors a classified or administrative staff member who demonstrates exceptional service to the university. Once nominees are received, a screening committee submits a list of finalists to the president, who then chooses the recipient. Creative Arts Facilities and Program Coordinator Jeanie Stuntzner insists that she uses her […]
Excellence in Scholarship Award: Dr. Marie LeJeune-The Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship honors a full-time faculty member who demonstrates outstanding creative or scholarly accomplishments. Once nominees are received, the Honors Committee votes by secret ballot on whether there will be a recipient that year, and if so, who the recipient will be. The bookshelves, tables and chairs […]
Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Peter Callero-The Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching honors a full-time faculty member who demonstrates excellence in teaching and relationships with students, both in and out of the classroom. Once nominees are received, a screening committee submits a list of finalists to the president, who then chooses the recipient. When sociology Professor Peter […]
Golden Lamp Award: Janine Egan ’18-From the OHSU School of Nursing, Monmouth Campus, the Golden Lamp Award is based on the American Nurses Association Code for Professional Nurses and the Florence Nightingale Pledge. It is given in recognition of exemplary demonstration of scholarship, leadership, professional commitment, innovative contributions and humanitarian ideals. OHSU School of Nursing’s Golden Lamp Award winner Janine […]
Outstanding Graduate Student Award: Alissa McAlpine ’18-The Outstanding Graduate Student Award honors a student who has demonstrated superior achievements in scholarship and academics, character, leadership and initiative during graduate studies. Last year at this time, Alissa McAlpine was in this same place: at Western Oregon University’s Commencement on a June afternoon. Then, she was gathering her undergraduate degree, a Bachelor of […]
Julia McCulloch Smith Award: Sara A. Madden ’18-The Julia McCulloch Smith Award is presented to the outstanding female student of the year in the memory of Smith, alumna of the class of 1895, who died in 1930. e award was first presented in 1931. When this year’s Julia McCulloch Smith Award winner for outstanding female graduate, Sara Madden ’18, says she “didn’t […]
Delmer Dewey Award: Carter Craig ’18-The Delmer Dewey Award, presented each year to the outstanding male student, is named for former Dean of Men Delmer Dewey, who died in 1953. The award was first presented in 1954. Like many Western Oregon University graduates, Delmer Dewey Award winner Carter Craig ’18 touts the university’s welcoming nature. For the outstanding male graduate […]
Alumni Award of Excellence: Lynn Hamersly ’64-The Alumni Award of Excellence is awarded each year to an alum (living or deceased) for his or her contributions and services to the university and community as well as for his or her distinguished professional work. Lynn Hamersly’s dedication to Western Oregon University—known as Oregon College of Education when she attended—was a positive in […]
Grad Profile: Roger Deleon-Graduating senior Roger Deleon, from Beaverton, book-ended his college experience at WOU. He started out at WOU in 2010 for two years, then transitioned to community college where he earned two associate’s from Portland Community College, before returning to WOU in fall 2016. Why did you choose WOU? It was cheaper than other schools I […]
Grad Profile: Javier Garcia-First-generation student Javier Garcia, from Newberg, plans to work in sports marketing now that he’s completed his bachelor’s in Business with a minor in Sports Leadership. Why did you choose WOU? I lost my little brother in a car accident during my senior year of high school. I really didn’t think about college after that […]
Grad Profile: Brittany Johnson-Portland native Brittany Johnson, a first-generation Math major with a Math Education minor, is making a big leap after graduation – she’s heading to Nebraska for a Ph.D.! Why did you choose WOU? I was originally an education major, and I knew that WOU was the best placed to be for that. I also wanted […]
Grad Profile: Louann Casares-If you asked first-generation student Louann Casares how long it took to complete her bachelor’s in Business Administration and minor in Humanities, she would tell you her freshman year took 24 years and the rest took three. She transferred to WOU from Linn-Benton Community College with credits she earned between 1991 and 2015 and completed […]
Grad Profile: Efrain Quevedo-Ramos-First-generation student Efrain Quevedo-Ramos tried a couple of colleges, but found his best fit was close to his home of Dallas, Ore. He’s graduating with a bachelor’s in Business and a minor in Communications. Congratulations, Efrain! Why did you choose WOU? Smaller campus, great atmosphere, and closer to home. What do you love most about […]
Grad Profile: Barbara Ettenauer-Not only has Barbara Ettenauer, from Vienna, Austria, completed a master’s in Special Education – she did so in her second language. What do you love most about WOU? I love the beautiful green lawns on campus, the very old sequoia and the library. Why did you choose WOU? My husband is a professor of […]
Grad Profile: Brenda Flores-First-generation student Brenda Flores, from Stanfield, Ore., developed her interest in advocacy and social change during her time on campus. She earned a double degree in Spanish and Public Policy and Administration, with a minor in Communications. What a combination! What do you love most about WOU? I love how small the classes are because […]
Grad Profile: Sophia Dykast-First-generation student Sophia Dykast, from Albany, managed to complete her bachelor’s in Public Policy and Administration (with a minor in History) in only three years. What an accomplishment! Why did you choose WOU? WOU has a beautiful campus, small class sizes, offered scholarships, and most importantly, had the exact major I wanted. What do you […]
Grad Profile: Whitney Gilman-Congratulations to Whitney Gilman, of Salem, for completing her bachelor’s degree in Business with a minor in American Sign Language! Gilman transferred to WOU from Chemeketa Community College and is the first in her family to graduate from college. Why did you choose WOU? I chose to attend WOU because it is close to home […]
Grad Profile: Cody Welty-Cody Welty, from Boring, Ore. (yup, he says it’s a real place), is graduating with a bachelor’s in psychology and a minor in biology. He’s found a great balance of activities and coursework to set him up for an exciting future. Why did you choose WOU? The moment I stepped on the campus, I knew […]
Grad Profile: Cynthia Olivares-With grad school on the horizon, Cynthia Olivares, from King City, is just cooling down from a busy and wild undergraduate career that involved student government, Green Dot, planning events and discovering her potential for leadership. We chatted with Olivares all about her time at WOU. What was your Major? Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus […]
Grad Profile: Lila Gardner-We congratulate Lila Gardner class of 2018! A first-generation student from Beaverton, Gardner will be getting her degree in Gerontology with a minor in Human Biology. Why did you choose WOU? For a multitude of reasons. It was affordable, the promise of small class sizes, my partner was studying here, it wasn’t too far from […]
Grad Profile: Jessica McCutchen-A prolific composer and musician, those in the Music department know first-generation student Jessica McCutchen, from Springfield, for her dedicated work ethic and her impact on the WOU music community. We talked to McCutchen about her passion for music, her time as an RA, and the best spot on campus to enjoy a good book. […]
Grad Profile: Elisa Moore-We congratulate Elisa Moore class of 2018! From Days Creek, Ore., Moore will be graduating with a bachelor’s in Gerontology and a minor in Health. Moore is a first-generation student that transferred to Western from Umpqua Community College. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because it is the only university in Oregon that […]
Grad Profile: Emily Carlston-Emily is a first-generation graduating senior from Gladstone, Oregon, who is earning her bachelor’s in Earth Science, minor in Psychology, and a Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Certificate. She has worked for the Newsflash student social media team in Strategic Communications and Marketing for over two years, and has held a position as box office attendant […]
Grad Profile: Frank Calzada III-WOU intramural fans and players may know referee and supervisor, Frank Calzada, well. Now gearing up for a graduate assistantship in sports management with Indiana State University, Calzada came in to chat about his experiences at WOU before graduation. Thanks once again for meeting with me! What’s your home town? I’m from Santa Rosa, California. […]
Grad Profile: April Mathews-We congratulate April Mathews class of 2018! As a first-generation student, Mathews will be graduating with a degree in Gerontology. She transferred from Chemeketa Community college and is part of Sigma Phi Omega International Academic Honor & Professional Society in Gerontology. She chose WOU because of it’s proximity and appealing price. What do you love […]
Grad Profile: Ashley Chambers-We chatted with Ashley Chambers, a first-generation Early Childhood Education major from Grants Pass (who’s also earning an English Speakers of Other Languages/Bilingual endorsement). Along with sharing her experiences as a Hamersly Library employee, we talked all about her grad school plans, her favorite spots on campus, and the time she accidentally walked into a […]
Grad Profile: Aaron Orr-We congratulate Aaron Orr class of 2018! From Forest Grove, Orr will be graduating with an major in Earth Science, a double minor in Chemistry and Music, and a certificate in Geographic Information Systems. Aaron is not the first in his family to get a degree, as his father feature graduated from University of California-Riverside. […]
Grad Profile: Ann Marie “Poka” Matagi-Through her time with Kappa Delta Chi, the Multicultural Center, and the Alternative Break program, Ann Marie (nicknamed Poka) has been a fixture on campus since coming to WOU. We chatted with Matagi about her biggest campus inspirations, her experiences traveling to Honduras and Costa Rica, and much more. Matagi, a first-generation student from Medford, is […]
Grad Profile: Emily Pahlke-Emily Pahlke, from Clackamas, Ore. is currently working and studying at Western at the same time. She will be graduating with a Master of Science in Education degree with a focus in Informational Technology as well as an Instructional Design Certificate. Currently she is working in the Richard Woodcock Education Center, advising undergraduate education students […]
161st Commencement Address by Senator Jackie Winters-This year’s Commencement speaker has been a strong advocate in the state Legislature for Western Oregon University as well as for the surrounding the communities of Monmouth and Independence. Senator Jackie Winters represents Senate District 10, an area that includes Monmouth and Independence as well as a large portion of Salem. She was rst elected […]
An Adaptation of Les Vampires; Opening This Week-Why Cross Chaos is a devised work based off the early 1900s silent serial film Les Vampires. The french film, by Louis Feuillade, is a comedy-thriller and portrays the inner workings of Paris Gangs. While guest director, Jessica Wallenfels did guide the group, the actors all had a part in creating the script. This lead […]
Spanish Professor Supports WOU Near and Far-Associate Professor of Spanish Linguistics Patricia Giménez-Eguíbar does a decent amount of traveling for work and pleasure, and two of her trips in the past year have been to conferences where she was representing Western Oregon University as keynote speaker. Giménez-Eguíbar teaches Introduction to Spanish Linguistics, Spanish Pronunciation and Phonetics, Spanish for Heritage Speakers and […]
Decorating Your Dorm-You’re in your dorm, fresh and ready for the year that’s coming. But there’s something missing from the room. The dorm is bland, grey, and you’ve got to figure out exactly how to live with your new roommate while bringing some pizzaz to your dorm. So, why not hit two birds with one stone and […]
A WOU Student’s Experience Helping Organize the Independence-Monmouth Community Clean-Up-The Independence-Monmouth Community Clean-Up, held annually, is an opportunity for local residents to clear their homes of debris. It’s also a chance for the community to come together and help beautify Independence and Monmouth by picking up trash and clearing park trails. For my class, it was something of a trial by fire. As part […]
T.H. Gentle Professorship Goes to Dr. Gay Timken-On Thursday, May 17, Physical Education Teacher Education Professor Gay Timken was announced as the 2018-2019 T.H. Gentle Professor. Timken, who has been on the faculty at Western Oregon University for 15 years, will take over the professorship from Deaf Studies and Professional Studies Professor Elisa Maroney, who held the post during the previous academic […]
Extramural vs. Intramural vs. Club Sports-Here at WOU, there are many different options to play sports on campus. – Renting equipment from HWC – Join a Club / Create a Club – Join an Intramural / Create an Intramural There is a difference between Clubs, Intramurals, and Extramurals, and those differences aren’t always clear. Hopefully this post will clear some […]
ONE: A Spring Dance Concert Piece-As a human, every day can bring up a different experience, but deciding on the voice in their narrative is up to the individual. ONE, a piece by student choreographer Tunya Dhevahpalin, is undertaking the issue between how we feel and the way people perceive us. Though a lot has changed, a lot more still […]
What Is a Bullet Journal-As someone who is nearing completion of my fourth year of college, I have to say that the bullet journal (bujo) has been an vital addition to my life. A bullet journal, in its essence, is a way to manage life’s tasks and organize everything that you need to get done. The original bullet journal […]
Last Light: A Spring Dance Concert Piece-Inspiration comes from anywhere, for the piece the Last Light, by student choreographer Andrew De La Paz explained he had two muses: the way light refracts through different mediums and the poem by Dylan Thomas, Do Not Go Gentle into that Good Night. By incorporating these two vastly different influences, De La Paz hoped to […]
Reading for Fun in College-When the term starts and the wave of reading for classes comes, it is hard to pick up a book to read for fun. Between time management, personal motivation, and prioritizing, reading for personal benefit typically takes the back burner. After taking Young Adult Literature during Winter 2018, I’ve collected some ideas and tips for […]
Sustainable Building Practices a Priority on WOU Campus-Among the priorities listed in the Western Oregon University strategic plan is a section on sustainability and stewardship. Not only does the university carefully manage its natural resources on a daily basis, it also ensures that buildings on campus meet high standards for eco-friendly construction and operation. When Ackerman Hall was built on campus in […]
WOU in the World-One of the priorities for Western Oregon University is high-impact learning opportunities. The university strives to give students the chance to get hands-on experience in their fields before graduation. In some cases, that means internships and practicums. In others, that means students volunteer in local or national communities to support residents while building life skills. […]
Around Campus-Veterans Services Earns Recognition, Grants WOU Veterans Support Services had a terrific winter, earning several accolades from multiple agencies. Most importantly, the WOU chapter of Student Veterans of America (SVA) won the Chapter of the Year award from among 1,300 SVA chapters nationwide. Student Shane Follett is the president of the campus SVA chapter. “Shane […]
Class Notes-Dorothy Coyle Blagg ’43, ’64 taught 32 years and has been retired for 32 years. In 2018, she will have graduated 75 years ago, and plans to attend the alumni dinner this year. Tobe Wolf ’65, ’68 was honored as a longtime coach and teacher into the St. Helena High School Athletic Hall of Fame. […]
Winter Sports Highlights-Men’s Basketball GNAC Champions GNAC Tournament Champions Tied GNAC record for most wins in a season (31) and set GNAC record for most conference wins in a season (19) Ranked No. 3 in NCAA Division II and No. 1 in West Region Tanner Omlid GNAC Player of the Year West Region Player of the Year […]
New to WOU-Q&A with Leanne Merrill Assistant Math Professor Leanne Merrill, 29, joined the Western Oregon University faculty in September, just weeks after defending her doctoral thesis and, oh, yeah, getting married. The upstate New York native may be young, but she has an interesting story that illustrates the importance of challenging oneself and keeping an eye […]
Surrounded by Old Friends-Tree Campus Designation Highlights Thoughtful Beauty For many decades, the Western Oregon University campus has been known for its beauty, most notably tree-lined Monmouth Avenue, the signature giant sequoia and the grand, mature specimens in The Grove. That beauty doesn’t come without a lot of work, mainly from the persistent and thoughtful members of the […]
Collaboration for Commemoration-Friends Expand Jack Morton Legacy Jack and Mary Morton were fixtures on the Oregon College of Education campus from 1955 to 1981. Jack Morton was first the registrar and then dean of students. Mary raised their two children and worked for adult and child service agencies. But they were best known for their hospitality. The […]
Q&A with Early Childhood Education Student Miaja Lopez-Miaja Lopez ’18, from Lakeport, Calif., just finished her Early Childhood Education degree this past winter term and is already teaching in Willamina. We had the chance to chat with her recently about her time at WOU. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU after looking at many different schools. I loved how close […]
Q&A with Early Childhood Education Student Yadira Diaz-Rodriguez-Senior Yadira Diaz-Rodriguez, from Independence, is a mere two months from completing her Early Childhood Education degree. She took some time to tell us about her experience in the program. Why did you choose WOU? I chose to attend Western Oregon University after finishing a transfer degree from Chemeketa Community College and deciding I wanted […]
A Swarm of Bikes-for-Rent Join Campus Just in Time for Spring-Starting this week, the Western Oregon University campus community will being seeing orange and wheels. About 100 orange, dockless bikes will appear on campus streets, available for use by anyone who has downloaded the app provided by Spin (search “Spin bike” in your app store), the company that supplies the bikes. With an .edu email […]
Lydia Muniz Appointed to Western Oregon University’s Board of Trustees-The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees welcomes Lydia Muniz, a recent retiree from the Office of Equity and Multicultural Services (OEMS) within the Oregon Department of Human Services. The state Senate confirmed Muniz on Feb. 13, 2018 and she will attend her first board meeting this month. Muniz served as director of the OEMS […]
Tim Cook is selected as the next leader of Clackamas Community College in Oregon City-Tim Cook will serve as the next president of Clackamas Community College after the school’s current leader Joanne Truesdell retires this summer after more than a decade with CCC. Cook is the vice president of instruction at Clark College in Washington. He will join Clackamas Community College on Sunday, July 1. Jane Reid, CCC Board […]
Q&A with History Student Andrew Dobrowolski-Where are you from? I am originally from Layton, Utah but I currently live in Hillsboro, Oregon. Why did you choose WOU? I chose Western because it was recommend to me bey several of my dad’s employees who graduated from Western as well. I also took a tour before I decided to come to Western […]
Q&A with History Student Brant Cheeley-Student Brant Cheeley talks about his experience in our History program for this week in We are WOU: Academics. This Donald (now Salem) resident hopes to graduate in spring 2019. Why did you choose WOU? WOU felt like home when I visited for the first time during the SOAR program for new students. I liked […]
Southern California Police Department Seeks Recruits at WOU-Representatives from the El Segundo Police Department in Southern California visited campus this week in their first out-of-state recruiting trip. They have high hopes for the outcome after taking with Western Oregon University students, many of whom are in the criminal justice program. “We’ve had a great experience,” said Sergeant Ed Villarreal. “We’re meeting a […]
Q&A with Criminal Justice Student Ryan Painter-Criminal Justice graduate student Ryan Painter ’17, from Roseburg, Ore., talked to us about his experience at WOU and in our Criminal Justice graduate program. Painter is focused on law enforcement and is particularly interested in working at the federal level. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because of its incredible reputation for […]
WOU in the news: At Western Oregon, a hometown star is key to NCAA’s-MONMOUTH — The best basketball team you don’t know about is led by a player who, except for a series of fortuitous events, almost never arrived on campus. It took a snub, a cross-country trip, a hurt knee, and a connection going back to a spring break trip in the 1980s to lead Tanner Omlid […]
Q&A with Criminal Justice Student Taylor Winder-Taylor Winder ’18, a Criminal Justice student from Wheeler, Ore. chose WOU after attending Criminal Justice Day during her junior year of high school. “I really liked the layout of the campus, the smaller class sizes, and knowing that I would be able to contact my professors easier than I would if I attended a […]
The Best Little Auditorium in Monmouth-The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas was not a place of fiction, it indeed existed under the name of Chicken Ranch. The prostitution started in the great depression as a way for the farm to survive, trading services for goods, eventually leading to the excess of chickens thus giving the 12 acre farm its name. […]
Q&A with Eric Frey, a Soldier, Scholar, Veteran, and Artist-Eric Frey ’19 describes himself as soldier, scholar, veteran and artist. So much so, in fact, that those four adjectives form the title of his latest art exhibition, which opened Feb. 19 in the Werner University Center and runs through March 4. Frey served more than 20 years in the Army before retiring from the […]
Western Oregon University’s Cannon Gallery of Art Showcases Salem Artist David George Andersen-Western Oregon University’s Cannon Gallery of Art in Campbell Hall will present David George Andersen’s Wish You Were Here beginning Feb. 21. The exhibit opens to the public with a reception from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 21 and will be on display through March 23. Andersen (1960-2017) was a Salem artist known for creating politically […]
WOU Alum Travels the World but Comes Full Circle-Oregon College of Education (OCE) alum Dwight Triplett ’66 is the embodiment of what can happen when you take life’s opportunities as they come. Even today, Triplett embraces the idea that taking chances and saying “yes” can lead you to places you never imagined. For him, that place was Asia, which was a long way […]
English Faculty Garner Literary Award, Recognition-Two members of Western Oregon University’s English department faculty have recently earned national recognition from prestigious literary journals. Professor Henry Hughes won the 2017 Oberon Poetry Prize from the journal Oberon Poetry. The New York-based journal runs the annual contest to highlight the best unpublished poem from among hundreds of submissions. Hughes’ winning poem, Fish […]
WOU in the news: For level, Western Oregon football outperforms Ducks, Beavers with 2018 in-state recruiting-Who deserves the in-state recruiting championship belt? The Oregon Ducks? They signed just one of seven in-state four-star prospects in the class of 2018, missing out on elite athletes Talanoa Hufanga, Chase Cota, Braden Lenzy, Trey Lowe, Eli’Jah Winston and Draco Bynum. The Oregon State Beavers? They failed to sign a top-nine prospect in the state, according […]
Western Oregon University Theatre Department to Present “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”-Western Oregon University’s Theatre Department will be presenting the classic musical The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas on March 1-4 and March 7-10. The musical, first performed on Broadway in 1978, is based on a book of the same name by Larry King and Peter Masterson. Much of the music and lyrics, created by Carol […]
Theatre Department to Stage The Watson Intelligence-The time-jumping play The (curious case of the) Watson Intelligence by Madeleine George will come to Western Oregon University’s Black Box Studio stage Feb. 8-10. The piece, which was a finalist for the 2014 Pulitzer Prize in Drama, will be directed by student Matthew Miller ’18. The (curious case of the) Watson Intelligence takes a […]
Western Oregon University Announces Sen. Jackie Winters will be Commencement Speaker-We look forward to welcoming Oregon Sen. Jackie Winters to the stage June 16, 2018, as the Commencement speaker. The Republican senator represents District 10 in the state Legislature, an area that includes Monmouth and Independence as well as a large portion of Salem. She was first elected to the Senate in 2002 and had […]
Q&A with information technology student Benjamin Kahn-This week, we’re featuring the Information Technology (“info tech”) master’s program for We are WOU: Academics. We’d had a chat with a current student in the program about his experience. Meet Benjamin Kahn ’19 from Seattle who’s currently living and working in Portland as an instructional technologist at the University of Portland. Kahn Why did […]
iLumiDance Tour Melds Dance, Computer Science to Benefit Children-Western Oregon University Dance Professor Darryl Thomas’ latest touring project, in addition to his well-known Rainbow Dance Theatre, has an innovative and ambitious mission: inspiring young children to explore computer coding. Since 2013, Thomas and a troupe have been presenting iLumiDance to schoolchildren visiting WOU. The program focuses on dancers who are wearing black suits […]
WOU in the news: Timing’s right for friends to open driving school-Duane Nault remembers when his son, Brian, needed to take driver’s education classes, it seemed like there was always a wait list at Shelton High School. When it came time for Nault to contemplate a career change, he turned to his newly retired friend, Ted Drogmund, about embarking on an idea he’d bounced around for […]
WOU in the news: CEI names president-IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK) – The College of Eastern Idaho has named Rick Aman as president. More than 46 candidates were interviewed after a national search since the community college was changed from a technical college. Aman was one of four finalists named on November 27th. He was the Interim President of the College of Eastern Idaho. He […]
WOU in the news: Holidays with the Trail Band-The NW Natural Holidays with the Trail Band concert series benefitting Friends of the Children returns to the Aladdin Theater! This is a unique event that attracts music lovers throughout Oregon. The band’s selection of classical and modern holiday music will get you into the holiday spirit. See for yourself why so many people make […]
12 local events to honor Martin Luther King Jr.-April 4 marks 50 years since the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. But, before that, the third Monday of January is dedicated to honoring the memory and contributions of the civil rights and religious leader. This year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on his birthday, Jan. 15. It’s not just a day off. Local businesses, […]
WOU in the news: College hosts keynote scholar-The community is invited to hear Portland scholar and activist Walidah Imarisha speak at Western Oregon University for their annual Martin Luther King Jr. commemorative dinner on the school’s campus in Monmouth on Wednesday, Jan. 17 at 6 p.m. “We chose Walidah Imarisha because of her scholarship and background,” said Emmanuel Macias, educational advisor for […]
Four Days of Events Honor MLK Jr.’s Memory, Mission-Several of Western Oregon University’s diversity-related groups will present activities surrounding the observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day from Jan. 15 to Jan. 18. The biggest event of the 10th annual Celebration Week will be the dinner Wednesday, which will feature keynote speaker Walidah Imarisha, an educator, writer, public scholar and spoken-word artist. […]
Western Oregon University Chapter Named National Student Veteran Chapter of the Year-Western Oregon University’s Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter won the Chapter of the Year award Jan. 6, 2018, at the organization’s national conference in San Antonio. Student Veterans of America is a national organization based in Washington, D.C., that is committed to veteran welfare and ensuring that today’s and tomorrow’s veterans are supported in […]
WOU in the news: Local high schools students get jump start on college-Some students worry they can’t afford college. Others think it will be too hard. Many aren’t sure if they’re really that interested in the classes. The partnership between local high schools and Western Oregon University is designed to quell those doubts by giving students an introduction to college in a low-cost, familiar atmosphere. Willamette Promise […]
WOU Students Support TEDx Salem Event, Mission-The TED Conference motto is “Ideas Worth Spreading,” and Saturday at the Salem Convention Center, more than a dozen Western Oregon University students will help advance that mission. For the second year, seniors in WOU’s Interpreting Studies program will get valuable, real-world American Sign Language interpreting experience as they share the stage with presenters at […]
WOU in the news: Aurora Colony Historical Society welcomes new face-The Aurora Colony Historical Society relies on a passionate group of volunteers and to help manage the resource, the ACHS board recently filled a newly created position. Beth Fleisher was recently hired to focus on recruiting and maintaining the volunteers that help make so much of what ACHS do. Beth Fleisher was recently brought on […]
WOU in the news: Local college students visit MHS classes-Eighteen Madras High School graduates, who are now attending college, visited MHS guide room classes to talk to juniors and seniors about their experiences and share advice on Dec. 20. That morning, the college kids gathered in the library, where they enjoyed catching up with each other and teachers before heading out to classrooms. One […]
WOU in the news: Buhler describes artistic ‘celebration of creation’-Gary Buhler has been a well-known name in the local art scene for three decades, particularly as one of the first participants in the popular monthly Art Walk events. But Buhler’s artistic connection to the Newberg area dates all the way back to his childhood. GARY ALLEN – College Street, which he occasionally opens as […]
Feature: WOU Students Explore Globe with Study Abroad Program-When Study Abroad Advisor Akaanchya Pradhan first meets with a student to discuss options for studying in another country, she usually doesn’t know what to expect. Some students have used the program’s online tool to narrow down their options, while others don’t know anything about studying abroad and all its ramifications. Pradhan said she generally […]
Business Leader Gayle Evans Joins Western Oregon University Board of Trustees-The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees welcomes Gayle Evans, the chief human resources officer at Unitus Community Credit Union, to the governance group. The Oregon Senate confirmed Evans on Nov. 15, 2017. Evans has been with Unitus for 10 years and has served on multiple boards of directors in the past, including for Trillium […]
WOU Master’s Degree from Home? Yes, Please!-If the idea of attending grad school classes at home while wearing pajamas is appealing, read on. Western Oregon University offers several online master’s degree programs that can completed on students’ own timeline and in the comfort of their own home. The dress code is up to them. One of WOU’s most popular online grad […]
WOU in the news: Concert band sets Christmas concert for Dec. 16-The Willamette Valley Concert Band is gearing up for its annual free Christmas concert. The 60-minute performance will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at Linn-Benton Community College’s Russell Tripp Performance Center, 6500 Pacific Blvd. SW, just south of Albany. Featuring a variety of old and newer Christmas music, the concert will open with […]
WOU in the news: Coach Matuszak has baseball down to a science-Varsity baseball head coach Matthew Matuszak has the game down to a science, literally. A groundskeeper for the San Francisco Giants, he tends fields for a living, although he considers it a hobby. His unique approach is a welcomed change in the formula for success for a team now on their fourth coach in four […]
Feature: WUE Program a Boon for WOU Student Population-Western Oregon University has been an active member of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) for more than a decade, but Director of Admissions Rob Findtner still meets students who are unfamiliar with WICHE’s most popular program, the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE). “You can never assume that people know,” said Findtner, who, like […]
WOU in the news: CHS seniors snag acceptance letters during College Application Week-Last month Colton High School participated in Oregon’s statewide College Application Week. The program assists students in preparing for and applying to colleges. The goal of the week-long event was to help all CHS seniors apply for some type of post high school education including certificate programs, two-year degree programs and four-year programs. “Oregon College […]
Feature: Student Projects Demonstrate Change Is Possible-Politics, Policy and Administration Professor Mary Pettenger wants students to know they can make a difference in their worlds. That’s why she considers her Political Science 355 course to be one of her favorites. The class, Civic Literacy and Engagement, has several components, from proposal writing and project management to media literacy and effective communication. […]
Fall 2017: Dead Week and Finals Week Events-Don’t go stir-crazy from studying. A little fun goes a long way. Check out these campus events happening next week and finals week to unwind and de-stress. Monday, Nov. 27 Dead Week Carne Asada WUC Willamette Room at 12:00 p.m. Free Vent Stations WUC Summit at 12:00 p.m. Free Orquestra Brasil Farewell Concert with the […]
Feature: Board Member a Staunch Advocate for University-Western Oregon University Board of Trustees member Jaime Arredondo is not a WOU alumnus, but you’d never know that from talking to him. His advocacy for the university is strong enough to qualify him as an honorary Wolf, and besides, he’s surrounded by family members who walked across the stage at McArthur Field. Arredondo actually […]
WOU in the news: Former outlaw keeps rolling-Enterprise alum and current Western Oregon University cross country and track and field standout David Ribich continues to gather accolades. Last winter, Ribich was part of a record-setting national championship run in the distance medley relay in the National Collegiate AthleticAssociation Division II indoor track and field championships. In the spring, he claimed the outdoor […]
News Release: Western Oregon University Enrollment Shows Uptick in Transfers, Strong Diversity-Western Oregon University has released official enrollment figures for fall 2017, and highlights include a higher-than modeled enrollment number and a strong showing in diverse populations. As a reflection of consistent declines in the number of high school graduates in Oregon, WOU’s spring enrollment projections had modeled a drop in enrollment of up to 5 […]
WOU in the news: Finalists announced for President of College of Eastern Idaho-IDAHO FALLS, ID — The College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that we have selected four finalists for the presidency of CEI. We recruited a highly competitive and strong pool of candidates from throughout the state, region and nation. Your contribution to CEI’s many accomplishments was instrumental in attracting […]
Feature: Focus on Transfer Students a Reflection of Goals-We are currently highlighting services that are tailored to three specific audiences: nontraditional students (Nov. 4), veterans (Nov. 9) and transfer students (today). There is a lot of overlap within these three groups, of course, so readers may qualify for multiple resources. In cooperation with several area community colleges and in accordance with the new […]
Feature: WOU Services for Veterans Indicate University Support-We are currently highlighting services that are tailored to three specific audiences: nontraditional students (Nov. 1), veterans (today) and transfer students (Nov. 15). There is a lot of overlap within these three groups, of course, so readers may qualify for multiple resources. According to Veterans Services Coordinator Andrew Holbert, student-veterans constitute about 4 percent of […]
WOU in the news: Organ donation ‘is about life, not death’-Kelli Little graduated from high school at 16 and attended Western Oregon University. She bounced from pre-dental to business to pre-nursing, until she took a contemporary health issues class that changed her life. “I immediately changed my major to community health education,” Little said. “I knew this was my calling, and I’ve never looked back.” […]
Feature: WOU Services Provide Support for Non-Traditional Students-For the next three weeks, we will be highlighting services that are tailored to three specific audiences: nontraditional students (today), veterans (Nov. 9) and transfer students (Nov. 15). There is a lot of overlap within these three groups, of course, so readers may qualify for multiple resources. The official Western Oregon University definition of a […]
Wolves Go Hunting for Some Fun: Community Events in Independence and Monmouth-Wanting to get involved in your community? Need to get out of the house? Don’t want to miss out on opportunities? Here are some events in the local community to get you started. Volunteer Rotary Club Weekly on Thursdays 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM First Baptist Church 1505 Monmouth Street Independence, OR 97351 Lions Club […]
Halloween at WOU: Your Guide to Campus Frights-In just a matter of days, the night air will be thick with the screeches of sugar-hyped kids and freshmen high-tailing it down Monmouth Avenue. Even now, jack-o-lanterns perch on porches, where they’ll sit until mid-November. It’s Halloween, y’all. The big question is, how do we celebrate Hallows’ Eve here at WOU? Consider this your […]
Swanson serving residency at Mountain View Clinic in Enterprise-Dr. Dallas Swanson, a resident with Oregon Health Sciences University’s Cascade East campus in Klamath Falls, will be serving at Mountain View Medical Clinic Oct. 25 to Nov. 26 as part of the OHSU Rural Residency Program. Dr. Swanson has ties to Wallowa County, having lived here as a child before his family moved to […]
NEWS RELEASE: Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Approves Academic Programs, Considers Master Plan-MONMOUTH, Ore. – The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees on Wednesday addressed multiple agenda items, including proposed changes to academic programs and a master plan presented by university President Rex Fuller. Two academic program changes were approved by the board and now move to the Higher Education Coordinating Commission and the Northwest Commission for […]
Feature: Outdoor Program Connects Students with Oregon’s Beauty-It’s no secret that one of the biggest Western Oregon University selling points is its location. From its vantage point in the Mid-Willamette Valley, WOU is primed to dispatch students to day trips on the sandy beach shore, up snow-capped mountains or into lush forests with minimal travel time. The WOU Outdoors Program, as part […]
WOU in the news: Clatskanie native, Yamhill sheriff honored for mental health service-A Clatskanie local who became the sheriff in Yahmhill County was recently honored for his commitment to mental health training. The 7th Annual Northwest Regional Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) Conference was recently held with the goal of drawing awareness to techniques for dealing with people in a vulnerable state of mental health. As part of […]
Feature: Entrepreneurship Minor a Popular Resource for Innovative Students-As the work force moves farther way from the traditional format—think employees who spend 10+ years at a company—to the modern affinity for a new job every few years, Western Oregon University’s Business program is ready for the change. Case in point: the entrepreneurship minor, which allows students, both current and incoming, to chart a […]
WOU in the news: Tobe Wolf to enter St. Helena High Athletic Hall of Fame-Tobe Wolf’s journey to the St. Helena High School Athletic Hall of Fame – where he will be honored as a longtime coach and teacher – began decades ago. It began in the summer of 1972, just before the start of the school year. Wolf and his wife, Andrea, were passing through the Napa Valley, […]
Feature: Academic Advising and Learning Center Tutors Poised for Fall Term-Western Oregon University is highly invested in student success, and as such, it offers a wide variety of free tutoring assistance for enrollees. However, many students aren’t familiar with the full breadth of options for getting help with different subjects, and that’s something the Academic Advising and Learning Center (soon to be Student Success and […]
WOU in the news: New director of developments joins Youth Villages Oregon-Portland, Ore. (Oct. 5, 2017) – Shauna Lugar was recently named director of development for Youth Villages Oregon. In her new role, Lugar will be tasked with leading the development and implementation of an integrated development strategy to increase engagement from individuals, corporations, and foundations. Prior to joining Youth Villages, Lugar served as development director […]
WOU in the news: Oregon City Police Department’s Mike Day tackling homelessness-Mike Day grew up on the poverty line with his single mom and occasionally was homeless, living for a time at a family friend’s house. Now as the Oregon City Police Department’s new homeless liaison officer, Day is responsible for all of the locals who have lost their homes or who are in danger of […]
Feature: ASWOU President Believes It’s Never too Late to Get Involved-A student’s first few terms at a four-year university can get a little hectic. Jessica Freeman ’18 gets it. But the Associated Students of Western Oregon University (ASWOU) president said that getting involved in a club or organization can make a world of difference for students acclimating to their new environment. While students may worry […]
One night only – “Blindside”-The Incidental Fees Committee does a large variety of things around campus including bringing in a guest artist once a year. This year they have brought in the magnificent Stephanie Morin-Robert to perform her show Blindside. Due to a type cancer called retinoblastoma, she lost her left eye when she was only two years of […]
Feature: Financial Aid Counselors Help Students Understand Assistance-Financial Aid is the most popular office in the Western Oregon University Lieuallen Administration building this week, with students lining up to talk with counselors about their aid packets and to hammer out lingering details. The office staff is primed to help students as efficiently as possible. On Monday alone, the group served 104 students […]
Feature: New Dean Brings Vision of Collaboration to College of Liberal Arts and Sciences-The new dean of the Western Oregon University College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Kathleen Cassity, arrived on campus Aug. 15, and while the move into her office in Bellamy Hall went pretty smoothly, the same cannot be said for the transition into her new home in south Salem. Cassity most recently was the assistant […]
WOU in the news: Winter Parker Accepted into Prestigious Program-Hunting down that perfect school is, more often than not, treacherous. Other times, it just falls right into your mailbox. That’s how it all started for former Winter Park resident Trevor Brown, who found his path with the arrival of a simple flyer he received from the American Museum of Natural History in New York […]
Feature: Service Learning and Career Development Helps Students Prepare for Future-For Western Oregon University students looking for an on-campus job, a work study position, a spring break adventure or a professional mentor, all the answers can be found in a single place: The Service Learning and Career Development (SLCD) office in the Werner University Center. The office, led by Director Adry Clark along with Assistant […]
WOU in the news: New Teacher is Reinvigorating the Art Program-COOS BAY – In the art room at Marshfield High School, cabinets are filled with dusty remnants from discontinued jewelry and photography classes. When art teacher Heidi Ositis took the job, she didn’t realize she was walking into a dying program. Now she is bringing it back to life, leading six packed classes. Some of […]
Feature: New Director Wrangles Data in Office of Institutional Research and Effectiveness-The concept of institutional research (IR) is by no means a new one. But the creation of the Institutional Research and Effectiveness office is a first for Western Oregon University, which until independence in 2015 had relied on the Oregon University System (OUS) for help with statistical reporting. Abdus Shahid was the OUS analyst who […]
WOU in the news: New Principals at Elementary Schools-Two Keizer elementary schools will have new principals when the 2017-18 year begins on Wednesday, Sept. 6—Christine Bowlby at Keizer Elementary and Stacey Lund at Weddle Elementary. Bowlby is transferring from Washington Elementary, where she was principal for the last five years, but she already calls Keizer home. Her oldest son will be a seventh […]
WOU in the news: New Glenwood Resource Center Superintendent Appointed-DES MOINES, Iowa (KCRG-TV9) — Iowa Department of Human Services Director Jerry R. Foxhoven announced on September 1 that he has appointed Jerry A. Rea as superintendent of the Glenwood Resource Center. Iowa has two resource centers that provide a full range of active treatment and habilitation services to individuals with severe intellectual disabilities. The resource […]
Feature: Student Health and Counseling Center Prepares for Grand Opening-The new Western Oregon University Student Health and Counseling Center has been serving students since June, but it won’t have its official grand opening until Oct. 2. When it does, and attendees get a chance to tour the interior, those familiar with the old SHCC will be impressed by the improvements the new building offers. […]
WOU in the news: Pack on the Hunt-MONMOUTH — Western Oregon University’s football team is coming off an uneven 2016 season. But with a solid core of returning players, the Wolves may be ready to challenge the Great Northwest Athletic Conference’s top teams — if questions at key positions are answered quickly. On offense, WOU returns eight starters. The Wolves will look […]
WOU in the news: Prep Cross-Country: Coach Seeks Elusive Accomplishment-DALLAS — When cross-country coach Monique Lankheet joined Dallas High School in 1996, it was never meant to be her final stop as a coach. ALLAS — When cross-country coach Monique Lankheet joined Dallas High School in 1996, it was never meant to be her final stop as a coach. Dallas was her first job […]
Feature: Eclipse Brings Hundreds of Visitors to Campus-Last weekend, Western Oregon University hosted well more than 1,500 visitors to campus, a mix of alumni, community members, first-time visitors and groups from around the Pacific Northwest. They were all here to observe the total solar eclipse on Monday morning, but weekend organizers also embraced the opportunity to highlight WOU’s outstanding features. Judging from […]
WOU in the news: Local Author Makes a Splash in Young Adult Fiction-Young Adult Sci-fantasy author Emily Lloyd-Jones works at a bookstore during the day and writes at night. Her latest novel, “The Hearts We Sold,” published by Little, Brown and Company, is listed on Entertainment weekly’s list of the 35 most anticipated YA novels of 2017. A book release celebration and signing was held at Gallery […]
Feature: WOU’s Digital Production Services Focuses on Training, Outreach-The corner of the University Computing Services department in the Instructional Technology Center where digital media producer/director Deborah Rezell has her office is windowless, dark and awash in a constant background buzz. She’s got no complaints, though. The office, studio and control room are tidy and efficient—cozy even. It’s a much different scene than the […]
Feature: Alum Turns Hobby into Career, then Cruises into International Market-Larry Peterson ’05 doesn’t seem like a celebrity from the outset. The Western Oregon University alum is in his mid-40s, works in Independence and has a wife and four sons. But if you ask anyone who’s a fan of longboards—skateboards with extra length and interesting shapes—“Longboard Larry” is a well-known figure. He’s not convinced, though. […]
WOU in the News: Wolves Ready For Trial By Fire-MONMOUTH — The 2016 season was always going to be a transitional one for Western Oregon’s volleyball team. A new coach, Tommy Gott, meant learning a new system and new expectations. The result was a 10-17 record overall. With a year under his belt as head coach, Gott and the Wolves are ready to take […]
WOU in the News: Oregon Promise Students Offered Incentives to Attend Western Oregon-Oregon Promise students now have more choices when it comes to attending a four-year college. Western Oregon University has created two scholarships available to students who meet the qualifications for Oregon Promise, a state grant program that covers most tuition for recipients at Oregon community colleges. Western’s incentive scholarships are the first of their kind in the state. […]
Feature: Silent Weekend’s Success a Testament to WOU Reputation in ASL Community-The ninth annual Silent Weekend event took place July 28-30 on campus, and a record number of participants were on hand for the American Sign Language-immersive experience. “(We had) 275 folks signed up from 18 states,” said event director CM Hall. “It’s our biggest year ever.” Hall, who in her regular duties is co-director of […]
News Release: Western Oregon University Announces Scholarships for Oregon Promise Qualifiers-Western Oregon University has created two new 2017-18 scholarships directed toward students who meet the qualifications for the Oregon Promise program. The first, WOU Jump-Start, is a scholarship for full-time students enrolling for fall 2017 as freshmen who desire the four-year college experience but are considering community college because of financial constraints. There are two […]
WOU in the News: Western Oregon Lowers Tuition Hike, Still Faces Increase-Students at Western Oregon University in Monmouth will still pay more for tuition come this fall, but it won’t be as much as anticipated. Western’s Board of Trustees agreed Wednesday to reduce the Higher Education Coordinating Commission-approved tuition increase of 10 percent to 6.5 percent. Officials attributed the drop to the $70 million added by the Oregon Legislature […]
Feature: Digital Arts Instructor a Game Maker in Disguise-When talking with digital art instructor Tim Hutchings, it’s clear the conversation could go in many directions. Will he tell you about his years as a “fancy-pants artist,” with gallery shows throughout New York City and “traveling the world on someone else’s dime”? Or will he discuss his life as a WOU teacher, and how, […]
Feature: Gentle Family Matriarch and OCE Alumna Defines Dedication to University-When your last name is Gentle and you live on a farm at the edge of campus, there’s little question which college you will attend. And in 1939, that was just fine with Margaret Gentle. “I knew I was going to go there,” she said with a laugh. “It couldn’t be anything else, in this […]
Repeat! Women’s Basketball Earns Academic Honor-For the second consecutive year, Western Oregon University’s women’s basketball team was recognized by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) on the 2016-17 Academic Top-25 Team Honor Roll. The Wolves posted a team grade point average of 3.539, which ranks 21st in NCAA Division II and topped all Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) women’s hoops […]
WOU in the News: Outdoor Showings of ‘Much Ado’ Cost Nothing-At its core, “Much Ado About Nothing” is a story about how one person disrupts the lives of all around him. The troublemaker, Don John — better recognized as the villain in William Shakespeare’s oft-produced play — is the one who has to instigate the action. In the Valley Shakespeare Company’s upcoming production, Western Oregon student […]
WOU in the News: More than Xs and Os: Sports Camp Teaches Youth How to Improve Off-Field Training-Five girls hoisted Olympic barbells to the instruction of coach Cori Metzger in the Thunder Mountain High School weight room on Tuesday. The school was empty save for Metzger and her group, each learning the basics of powerlifting. “One more time: down to your knees, up and shrug,” Metzger said. Each girl extended at the […]
WOU in the News: Vancouver Creator Could Tap Into Booming Board Game Industry-After saying for years he wanted to invent a board game, Marc Neidlinger finally decided it was time to roll the dice. “I said to myself, if I don’t do it now, I never will,” the Vancouver resident said. “If I don’t do it today, when? If you can’t answer that, it means it’s never […]
Feature: Public Safety Officers Go Above and Beyond for Campus Community-On some college campuses, the public safety officers just cover the basics; they patrol campus, lock buildings and file reports. Western Oregon University is not one of those campuses. The department’s six officers plus Director Rebecca Chiles are not content to do just the minimum. Their particular brand of flair is specialty training, and they […]
WOU in the News: New AD Learns on the Fly-Curtis Campbell didn’t know much about Oregon. Born on the East Coast, Campbell had only been as far west as Illinois. Yet, when Western Oregon University began its search for a new director of athletics, Campbell was interested. “My wife and I have always wanted to live on the West Coast because we haven’t before,” […]
Feature: WOU Adjunct’s Adaptation of Arabian Nights Showcases Talent of Local Children-The Apple Box Children’s Theater production of Arabian Nights makes its debut tonight in the amphitheater near Rice Auditorium, when more than local 40 children will bring to life playwright Maren Bradley Anderson’s magical vision. Anderson, an adjunct writing and English instructor at Western Oregon University, based the play on the classic tale One Thousand […]
WOU in the News: Tyrell WIlliams Shares NFL Knowledge During Camp at Western Oregon-Tyrell Williams’ journey to the NFL is a feel-good story from the Mid-Valley. The former standout at Cascade High School and Western Oregon University went undrafted in 2015, but the San Diego Chargers signed him and gave him a shot, and he made the most of it. Williams led the Chargers with 1,059 receiving yards […]
Feature: WOU Forensic Anthropology a Small Niche with a Big Following-Western Oregon University Associate Professor Misty Weitzel has a box of full bones in the corner of her office in Maaske Hall. A skull sits on the bookshelf, and skeletal “face” peers at guests from a pillow. It’s not gruesome, though. They are just tools of her trade. Weitzel teaches forensic anthropology, which harnesses the […]
Maurice Undergraduate Initiative Continues to Inspire Innovative Solutions-Each year, Western Oregon University undergraduate students have the opportunity to win an unrestricted cash award of $5,000 in a contest known as the Maurice Prize. All they have to do is define a problem, then create and execute an innovative solution. The goal of the program, from the founders’ point of view, is to […]
Golden Lamp Award: Stacie Chance-Stacie Chance, the 2017 Golden Lamp Award winner, took a winding path to get to where she is today, but now that she’s fulfilling her life-long dream, there’s no deterring her from her ultimate goal. The Oregon Health & Science University honoree is focused on supporting the health and wellness of her community. To that […]
Alumni Award of Excellence: Betty Komp ’90, ’92-The 2017 Alumni Award of Excellence winner, Betty Komp, is the embodiment of Western Oregon University’s mission: providing a transformative education. Komp, now a retired Oregon legislator, came to WOU in the late 80s as a 30-something single mom seeking a significant change in her life. She graduated in 1990 with a bachelor’s degree in […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Staff Excellence Award: Bruce Tuma-Bruce Tuma, winner of this year’s Mario and Alma Pastega Staff Excellence Award, has completed hundreds projects on the Western Oregon University campus during his lengthy tenure. In fact, as he’s walking around the grounds, it is like a little trip down memory lane because he is reminded of all the work he has accomplished […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Excellence in Scholarship Award: Dr. Eliot Dickinson-Politics, Policy and Administration Professor Eliot Dickinson is a master of being in the right place at the right time. Opportunities have presented themselves to him throughout his life, and he never hesitated in spotting the opening. Dickinson, a nine-year member of the WOU faculty, is the winner of the 2017 Mario and Alma Pastega […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Vivian Djokotoe-Vivian Djokotoe, this year’s recipient of the Mario and Alma Pastega Excellence in Teaching Award, says she has been lucky through every stage of her life. Although she’s certainly been the benefactor of Fortune’s smile many times, however, it’s clear that good ol’ hard work deserves the lion’s share of credit for her success. Djokotoe […]
Julia McCulloch Smith Award: Aleisha Douthitt-If the ultimate goal of attaining a degree is to get a job right out of college, Aleisha Douthitt, this year’s Julia McCulloch Smith Award winner for outstanding female graduate, is well ahead of the game. The Honors Program student already is putting her bachelor’s degree in elementary education to work; she landed a job […]
Delmer Dewey Award: Connor Thompson-Connor Thompson, the 2017 Delmer Dewey Award honoree, has an incredible résumé. The chemistry major interned for NASA, researched nanotechnology and worked on a computational chemistry project involving cartridge cases from the Battle of the Little Bighorn. But in discussing the most influential experience he’s had while on the Western Oregon University campus, the hyper-organized […]
Outstanding Graduate Student Award: Jennifer Kepka-Jennifer Kepka has been working for years to make higher education accessible to more people, especially those with barriers to regular classroom attendance. But her work in online educational resources is just one of the reasons this year’s Outstanding Graduate Student Award recipient reaps praise from her advisers and nominators. “Jennifer’s work is more than […]
Commencement Speaker: Matt Utterback ’89-North Clackamas School District Superintendent and WOU alum Matt Utterback is this year’s Commencement speaker; it will be the second time that he has had the opportunity to address the audience at a WOU graduation ceremony. Utterback, a 1989 Western Oregon State College – as it was named then – graduate, was that year’s Delmer […]
Grad Profile: Ivan Acosta-As a first-generation student, Ivan Acosta has let nothing stand in his way from getting involved and pursuing a double degree. His first degree is in social sciences and his second is in Spanish. The Spanish degree started off as only his minor, but he soon felt it was necessary for him to pursue. By […]
Grad Profile: Kaylyn Taylor-This is part of our WOU graduate profile series where we’re featuring students who have been making incredible contributions to the WOU community In this feature, we’re celebrating the amazing accomplishments of Kaylyn Taylor, a psychology major with a minor in Spanish. Kaylyn’s been involved in a lot of different programs during her time at […]
Grad Profile: Rosita Olalde-This is part of our WOU graduate profile series where we’re featuring students who have been making incredible contributions to the WOU community One of the first things you notice about Rosita Olalde, though you may not think that it is particularly noticeable at all, is how modest she is. She has a way of talking […]
Grad Profile: Laura Miranda-This is part of our WOU graduate profile series where we’re featuring students who have been making incredible contributions to the WOU community Today we’re featuring Laura Miranda, a social science major who made her mark with numerous organizations on campus, including Upward Bound and the Multicultural Student Union. We asked Laura about her time […]
Grad profile: Max Norr-This is part of our WOU graduate profile series where we’re featuring students who have been making incredible contributions to the WOU community Senior Max Norr is the creator of “The Record Keeper,” an exhibit and website based on books belonging to Sister Genevieve “Birdie” Lantz. She was a nurse with the American Red Cross […]
Commencement Announcer Taking Final Bow This Week-Imagine standing on a stage filled with Western Oregon University dignitaries. There are thousands of pairs of eyes watching you, expectant. President Rex Fuller is poised nearby, waiting to congratulate more than a thousand graduates. On the lectern in front of you is an extensive list of strangers’ names, many of which contain a dizzying […]
Graduates: What to Expect at Commencement-Commencement is approaching quickly! The actual day does have a set schedule and there are places that us graduates need to be at certain times. While you’ve hopefully been receiving emails regarding how to sign up for graduation, here’s what to do on the actual day. Want more information or need to send your family […]
Spots to Take Cap and Gown Photos Around Campus-Commencement is here! With the whirlwind that is Commencement, it’s easy to forget good places where you can get some pictures in your cap and gown. Don’t worry, we’ve got some good ideas for you. Here is a map around campus that will show you where all of these pictures were taken. You can get […]
WOU Archivist Valuable for University Knowledge, Student Focus-Western Oregon University has many treasures among its faculty and staff, but Archivist and Exhibit Coordinator Jerrie Lee Parpart is a rare gem, one that shines brighter for her in-depth knowledge of the university’s history and for wanting to share that story wide and far. Parpart joined the Western Oregon University staff in 1990, when […]
Never Fear, Summer is Almost Here: June Events in Polk and Marion County-Sweet summer is right around the corner and while the thought of looming finals haunts everyone’s minds, there is still plenty happening in the local communities to help de-stress. Check out these awesome events happening in Marion and Polk counties this month. Starting June 1 Polk County Bounty Market (Through September 28) 10 a.m. to […]
Alumnus Valladares Planting Community Spirit for City of Independence-At first glance, it might not seem as though Erubiel Valladares ’05 is working in the industry he went to college to study. While at Western Oregon University, Valladares majored in The Arts with a focus on theatre, music and dance. Today he is community liaison for the City of Independence, working toward better engagement […]
“This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing:” From the Eyes of an Ensemble Member-This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing By Finegan Kruckemeyer is a story about three triplet sisters who get left in the woods; one girl goes west, one girl goes east and one stays. It is an intricate piece made up of three main characters, the sisters, and a cast of ensembles […]
Play Combines Self-Determination with Slight Hint of Magic-The Western Oregon University Theatre’s final production of the academic year will be This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing, and although the play by Finegan Kruckemeyer is often described as being “fairy tale-like,” guest director Jen Rowe is quick to indicate her preference for “fable.” “I try not to go down […]
WOU in the news: Adam Watkins is new CHS principal-Adam Watkins has been selected as the next principal at Creswell High School, Superintendent Todd Hamilton announced Thursday. Watkins comes to Creswell from the Salem-Keizer School District, where he currently serves as a district-level administrator supporting instructional services and career technical education programs, Hamilton said. Before joining the Instructional Services Department, Watkins spent 11 years […]
The Impact of a “Nasty Woman”-Since arriving at WOU, there are very few performances in theatre and dance that I have missed. During this year’s Spring Dance Concert there was a piece that really struck home, as both political and emotional. The efforts of senior student Hayley Ann Evers left me thinking about the piece long after the concert ended. […]
New Executive Director Brings Experience, Excitement to WOU Athletics-Western Oregon University hired Curtis Campbell as its new athletic director on May 15, concluding a nationwide search that brought a handful of diverse candidates to campus for individual presentations. It was Campbell’s unique mix of work experiences that vaulted him above the rest of the field, said WOU President Rex Fuller. “Curtis is the […]
Guide to Donating Blood-Today marks the beginning of the spring American Red Cross blood drive here at WOU. It’ll be taking place today and tomorrow in the Pacific Room from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Experiences of donating blood is very different from person to person, but knowing that it all goes to saving lives is worth every second. Before […]
The Green Team and the Earth Bench-The Bench Story The Green Team built a double-sided 10 ft. long bench made entirely out of recycled material, called an Earth Bench. The Earth Bench project itself began in October 2016. The actual ground breaking and construction occurred on May 2, 2017. But who is the Green Team anyway? The Green Team is a student organization […]
Becka Morgan Helps Computer Science Students Develop Real-World Skills-The term “open source software” may not be part of the everyday vernacular, but it plays a significant role in our lives, driving the online engines of the digital world. And it just so happens that some Western Oregon University computer science students are getting a substantial head start in the open source world, thanks […]
49th Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition-Every year the Cannon Gallery hosts the Juried Student Art Exhibition that presses it to its limits. With over 300 art pieces submitted each year, only the top 80 pieces will be displayed. Due to the size of the Cannon Gallery, the student assistants have to get creative with the space. This tetris-like balance is […]
WOU in the news: Discover MiTown on Saturday-MONMOUTH/INDEPENDENCE — A few changes are in store for the third annual Discover MI Town Saturday from 3 to 7 p.m., sponsored by the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce. “Discover MI Town is an opportunity to stop in and check out many local businesses,” said Ryan Kingsella, chamber executive director. “Each location will be giving away […]
Recreation In and Around WOU-There are so many ways in and around campus to enjoy the great Pacific Northwest. From the mountains to the coast to the high desert, there is something for everyone in a short drive’s reach from campus. But what’s close by? Recreation On and Near Campus The closest place to get some exercise that we have […]
Free Art Events Spring 2017-As we near the end of the school year and things get busy, it is sometimes good to slow down and take some time for yourself. These upcoming free events might be just the thing you need to take your mind off of your studies for a little bit. MUSIC Free admission May 16 – […]
Western Oregon University Appoints Curtis Campbell as Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics-Western Oregon University has hired Curtis Campbell as its new athletic director. Campbell is the current director of Athletics at NCAA Division II institution Tuskegee University in Alabama. Campbell boasts 17 years of experience in intercollegiate athletics at both the D-II and D-III levels and has overseen multiple athletic construction projects. In addition to his […]
Peter Sears Poetry Prize Winners-This was the first year of the Peter Sears Poetry Prize, planned to be an annual event. Dr. Henry Hughes, a literature and writing professor at WOU, founded the prize in honor of Peter Sears, a poetry mentor and friend to him for many years. Over 100 poems were submitted by students. Professors Marjory Lange, […]
Track Star Ribich Sets Sights on World of Elite Runners-David Ribich ’18, the WOU track standout, is what Director of Athletic Compliance Randi Lydum calls “the poster child of a student-athlete.” The junior from Enterprise, Ore. works hard, maintains solid grades and continues to make a huge mark in the track world on behalf of the Wolves. “You couldn’t ask for a better guy,” […]
WOU in the news: ‘Fairy tales with a twist’ offered by Oregon City High School-‘Miss Chudderley’s Fairy Tales With a Twist!’ is the spring offering from Karlyn Love’s play production class Karlyn Love likes her fairy tales a little bit offbeat, and that is why she chose to adapt and modernize five iconic stories, turning them into “Miss Chudderley’s Fairy Tales With a Twist!” the spring offering from her […]
Gluten-Free Guide to Eating on Campus-Are you gluten free or thinking of going gluten free? Are you worried about your options on campus? As of this year, dining on campus had dramatically changed for the better. In addition to the introduction of more options for vegans and vegetarians, there are also new options for those who are gluten-free (whether you have […]
WOU in the news: Ex-Roseburg softball players Jackson, Hamlin now head coaches in same league-I remember Brandi Jackson as a fiery competitor on the diamond during the glory days of Roseburg High School softball. A coach’s daughter, so what else would you expect? Kendra Hamlin was a teammate of Jackson’s at RHS. A fine player in her own right and an excellent centerfielder on an outstanding Indians club that […]
WOU in the news: WOU opens campus for eclipse rentals-MONMOUTH — Western Oregon University is open for eclipse viewers. The college is renting dorms, apartments and camping spots — both for tents and recreational vehicles — for the weekend of the Great American Eclipse, Aug. 19 and 20. Costs vary, depending on accommodations, and apartments are selling fast, said Erin McDonough, executive director of […]
‘Alma’s Project’ Website Offers Resources for DACA Students-Students at Western Oregon University on April 17 introduced “Alma’s Project,” a new website that comprises comprehensive resources for students and community members enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The website is packed with information to support the academic, psychological and social lives of DACA students at WOU and beyond. There […]
End of the Year Campus Events-It’s that time of the year where all the clubs and organizations are squeezing out their last events for end of the year fun. Here’s a list of events on campus that you don’t want to miss! May 2 “Coming Out Monologues” Reception Come watch people share stories that are near and dear to them […]
WOU in the news: Western Oregon runner David Ribich is having quite a year – Oregon track & field rundown-Thumbs up for Western Oregon junior David Ribich, who ran last weekend’s fastest 1,500-meter time by any college runner regardless of classification. Ribich clocked a time of 3 minutes, 41.45 seconds while winning at the Oregon State High Performance Meet on Friday. It’s a WOU and Great Northwest Athletic Conference record, and would tie him for […]
Don’t Miss This! May Events In Marion and Polk County-It’s already May! Before things get too stressful with preparing for the end of spring term, here are some fun things happening in the local community. May 1 Salem River2Ridge Registration Riverfront Park/ Silver Falls State Park 181 High St. NE http://www.travelsalem.com/events/salem-river2ridge-registration May 3 Kitsuke: The Art of Wearing Kimono Mon.- Fri. 10 a.m. to […]
Food pantry seeks next step in service-The WOU Food Pantry, housed in the Academic Programs and Support Center building, has been getting a lot of press in the past four months. Media attention has come from several newspapers and a television station, all of which is welcome support in the eyes of Director Rebecca Hardgrave ’18. “We appreciate the attention if […]
The art of Rick Bartow-Step into a surreal world made of a mixture of pain, passion, and love. Alumnus Rick Bartow lead an interesting life and, like many, struggled with addiction to help cope with trauma, his crutch being alcohol. His art became his escape. Incorporating his heritage as part of the Wiyot tribe, along with all the other […]
Social Media Manager Devotes Days to Outreach-Lisa Catto ’10 has been a fixture on the Western Oregon University campus for 12 years, though her title and office location have changed multiple times. Since the creation of Strategic Communications and Marketing in September, Catto has been the manager of media relations and social media, a title she describes as the most accurate […]
WOU in the news: Western Oregon’s Andy Avgi preparing for upcoming NFL draft-MONMOUTH — There are many unknowns in Andy Avgi’s future, but the former Western Oregon athlete is enjoying every moment of it. Avgi, from Woodburn, was a standout in both basketball and football for the Wolves, and now he is training ahead of the NFL draft with hopes that a team will call. “Training is […]
Western Oregon University Appoints Kathleen Cassity as Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences-Western Oregon University is excited to announce Kathleen Cassity of Honolulu has been selected as the new dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS). Cassity currently is the assistant interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts at Hawaii Pacific University and also served there as chairperson of the Department of English […]
My WOU Drag Show Experience-The WOU Drag Show has been my best and most favorite experience at WOU by far. Two years ago around this time, I was but a wee freshman trying to figure out who I was. My identity as a friend, daughter, partner, student, and overall person was all up in the air at that point. […]
Alternative Break: Travel, Serve, and Get Involved-There’s nothing quite like giving back to the community. But your help’s not just needed in your own neck of the woods. What if you could travel to a part of the world where you could make a tremendous impact for people in need? Luckily, you can. Through the Service Learning and Career Development’s Alternative […]
WOU in the news: The Corvallis Half-If you milled around the starting line of the Corvallis Half Marathon before the race got underway, you would have seen a microcosm of Corvallis: People of all ages talking, knots of people in matching group shirts taking photos together, people with signs to support family members and friends, a toddler throwing a tantrum in […]
WOU in the news: ‘The Great War’: PBS documentary finds haunting parallels between World War I and U.S today (review)-Debates about whether the United States should intervene in wars fought in other countries; African Americans, women and other minority groups demanding equal rights; citizens resenting the federal government’s encroachment into their daily lives; and the government cracking down on those who dare question the rightness of the U.S. approach to national emergencies. That list […]
Gerontology Students Seek Opportunities to Shine in Their Program-The Gerontology program at Western Oregon University is a fairly recent addition to campus; The first graduates were a handful of post-baccalaureate students in 2012. But the area of study is high on the job-outlook meter, so the program has enjoyed quite a bit of growth during the five years since. Associate Professor Margaret Manoogian […]
WOU in the news: Avgi Chases Football Dream-MONMOUTH — There have been few names that have stood as tall in Western Oregon University athletics as Andy Avgi. On the hardwood, he helped lead the men’s basketball team to the NCAA Division II Final Four during the 2015-16 season. On the gridiron, he played football for the last two years, and had 16 […]
American Experience Series to Feature WOU History Professor-The PBS series American Experience will air “The Great War” from April 10-12 in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the United States’ entry into the conflict. A familiar face is certain to appear in at least one of the three installments. Western Oregon University Professor of History and Gender Studies Kimberly Jensen was among […]
Choosing a meal plan at WOU-Choosing which meal plan to get can be a difficult decision. There are so many choices, and it can be hard to predict how much you will spend on food per term. For example, the average cost of a meal at Valsetz is about $3. What meal plan should I choose? All on-campus freshmen are […]
Volunteering at WOU: giving back to the community-Not sure what to do for spring break? It might be a good time to think about volunteering. There’s a lot you can get out of giving back. Meeting new people, trying out new experiences, and making a difference- it’s a win-win situation. Here’s what’s involved. Yes, it’s sort of like a job Hunting for […]
WOU in the news: Crossed swords lead to ‘Classical Crossroads’ concert-We’ve all seen this way too many times. A sharp review, words are exchanged online, things get personal. And the next thing you know everyone’s typing in all caps, using death’s head emojis and … well, it’s just getting out of hand. We love a good art feud as much as anyone, but usually nothing […]
WOU Alum and WOU Senior Show They Have a Way with Words-It is challenging to chart one’s own path in the world of publishing, but a recent Western Oregon University graduate and a current WOU senior have fearlessly entered the fray to share their creative styles. Both women majored in English with a concentration in writing, and they describe their years at the university as transformative […]
The Homeschooled Student’s Guide to Life at WOU-If you’re a homeschooled student, let’s face it. Figuring out college isn’t always a simple process. If you’re anything like I was back when I was first applying to school, you’re struggling to figure out all kinds of things that don’t always come naturally to the homeschooled set. But if you’re applying to WOU, it’s […]
New Mursion software takes teaching instruction to virtual level-Assistant Professor of Education Maria Peterson-Ahmad has been working for months to bring an innovative new education tool to Western Oregon University, and she will unveil the program tomorrow to a group of students, teacher-education partners and anyone who is curious about virtual classrooms. “I’m so excited to show Mursion to everyone,” Peterson-Ahmad said, her […]
Internships and how to get them-For multiple majors in college there is a requirement to gain internship hours, but if your major doesn’t require you to, is it worth your time to search for one? In short, absolutely. An internship can give you valuable experience in your field and may end in a job offer. It may seem obvious to […]
Networking: Making professional connections-There’s an old saying: “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” And while that oversimplifies the process of finding a job, it has proven to be relatively true. Networking is an important factor inside and outside of your career. The perfect time to start, if you haven’t already, is right now. It takes […]
Places on campus for academic success support-With finals just around the corner and spring term fast approaching, now’s a great time to take advantage of various academic centers and resources around campus. Science Center The Science Center is open this term until week 10, providing assistance for students in science related classes. It is located in the Hamersly Library in room 124. […]
WOU alum wins National Superintendent of the Year Award-Western Oregon University alumnus Matt Utterback ’89 has won the National Superintendent of the Year Award from the American Association of School Administrators. The award was announced March 2 in New Orleans. Utterback has been superintendent at North Clackamas School District since 2012, and during that time the district has made major gains in graduation […]
WOU in the news: Salem basketball ref Millard Bates, 86, is a legend-Millard Bates arrives a half-hour before tipoff, setting his duffel bag at the end of the bench. He chats with the coaches, league officials, scorekeepers and his partner, even a couple of fans sitting across the court in the bleachers. He’s a local celebrity, as far as basketball referees go. After making the rounds, he […]
Winter 2017 Hamersly Library exhibits-In the light of all of the political events that have been occurring, you may feel as if you want to get more involved. The art exhibit on the second floor of Hamersly Library might be filled with the inspiration you need. Titled Free Speech: Culture, Politics, and the Art of Expression, Then and Now, […]
What you may not know about WOU Portal-We all know how important the WOU Portal is to stay updated on all things school-related. But how much do you know about the different features on Portal? Starting with the basics, you can access your email, ASTRA Schedule, WolfWeb, Moodle, OrgSync, Library, Wolf Connection System, My Financial Aid, Writing Center Appointments, Wolf Link, and […]
Graduate programs for non-educators-Graduate programs at WOU aren’t only for students wanting to pursue a career in the education field. There are graduate programs in other fields such as criminal justice, interpreting studies, and more! These ones aren’t quite as complicated to sift through. Rather, they are based more on career goals and interests. Remember to complete the […]
You made 2017 Giving Day a huge success-We set a goal of 161 donors for our Giving Day (in honor of WOU’s 161 years) and you amazed us with your support! You rallied and we had 223 donors contribute more than $20,000 to support students and programs. Donations were made from at least 16 different states from New York to Hawaii. “I […]
WOU student creates tool for deaf and hard of hearing drivers-Allison Kingsella ’17 came to Western Oregon University with a plan. The California native had fallen in love with American Sign Language while working on a senior project in high school, and she wanted to train for a career as an interpreter. However, it didn’t take long for Kingsella to realize that standing at the […]
Cesar E. Chavez Leadership Conference brings Hispanic youths to campus-On March 3, Western Oregon University welcomed about 2,200 students, school staff and chaperones for the 27th annual César E. Chávez Leadership Conference (CECLC), an all-day event meant to inspire Hispanic students to seek leadership roles. The day’s events started with a welcome and keynote address in the New P.E. building, where the bleachers overflowed […]
Enjoy free arts events this month-As the end of the term approaches, stress can get a bit high. Here are arts events happening around campus that are free to all WOU Students (some require WOU ID). So mark your calendars and take some time out for you to relax at one of these performances or walk around these art installations […]
The characters you will meet in “Shakespeare in Hollywood”-Shakespeare in Hollywood by Ken Ludwig portrays behind the scenes of movies in the 1930s. Based on the film of A Midnight Summer’s Dream Directed by Max Reinhardt filmed in 1934, this play muses the idea that real characters from A Midnight Summer’s Dream find their way onto the movie set. This ends up with […]
National grant extends CASA’s reach-Last fall, The Research Institute (TRI) and the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women extended their six-year relationship until at least 2019. A $300,000 grant sealed the deal. There was not a lot of fanfare at the time, but the continuation agreement is a significant coup for Western Oregon University. Not only […]
WOU in the news: Westview students to attend Cesar Chavez conference-The event is expected to draw more than 2,000 Oregon Hispanic high school students, with a focus on workshops, an exhibitor fair, guest sessions, an awards ceremony and a dance. When Western Oregon University welcomes the 27th annual Cesar E. Chavez Leadership Conference to campus on Friday, it will include a boisterous busload of students […]
WOU in the news: A different seat at the table for students-At first glance, Shayna Hicks’ second-grade class at Mountain View Elementary School in Corvallis looked a little chaotic: A couple of students lounged in bean bag chairs. Others sat in a small group around a coffee table in comfy chairs, while others lay on the floor on their stomachs looking at iPads as a steady […]
“Shakespeare in Hollywood” melds the Bard with a bad movie-Plenty of theatrical works involve a play within a play, but “Shakespeare in Hollywood” takes the concept to a new, hilarious level. Not only is there a movie within a play, but there also are characters from a Shakespearean comedy thrust into roles in a 1930s film. Confused? Don’t worry, said director Ted deChatelet. Just […]
Dual-enrollment at WOU and Chemeketa: is it for you?-Is it possible to take classes at more than one college? Indeed! If you’re like many WOU students, you might be curious about what dual-enrollment is all about. You can choose to dual-enroll at both WOU and Chemeketa Community College. For many students, this can be a great way to help save money and get […]
Why Attend Graduate School at WOU?-With so many options available for graduate school, the decision can take a lot of time, research, and applications. Western Oregon University is a great option for graduate school because of the affordable tuition, positive interactions between faculty and students, and the variety of programs offered. Here’s what it’s like to attend graduate school at […]
How to Choose a Major at WOU-Freshmen may feel pressure to choose a major before the beginning of fall term, but being undecided is perfectly fine! One of the best parts about college is being able to choose your own classes. Going to class is much more exciting when you are learning about something that interests you! However, this can become […]
Criminal Justice Career Day-High school and college students are invited to attend Criminal Justice Career Day to explore educational and employment opportunities available from various agencies. Representatives from law enforcement, correctional institutions, detention and jail facilities, juvenile and adult probation and parole programs and other special service fields will be available at the career fair. There will also […]
WOU in the news: New Public Health manager’s job a “perfect fit”-When Glenna Hughes talks about her new job as the Linn County Public Health Program manager, she cannot help but smile. It is, she said, a perfect combination of her key interests: sociology and health care. Hughes, 58, takes over the role held for many years by Pat Crozier, who retired at the end of […]
Senior Allison Yamnitsky charting path for her future-If you’d asked Alli Yamnitsky ’17 during her freshman year at Western Oregon University what she saw herself doing after graduation, she probably would have said she’d be a history teacher. The Corbett High School grad lists history among her passions, along with environmental studies, her minor. But fate steered Yamnitsky in a different direction […]
WOU in the news: NFL’s Tyrell Williams returns to Turner Elementary-TURNER – Much has changed for Tyrell Williams since he roamed the halls at Turner Elementary School as a fifth grader. These days Williams is a standout wide receiver for the Los Angeles Chargers. On Tuesday he was back at his old school, a guest of principal Dan Petersen, Williams’ track and field coach at […]
Jayme Stone’s Lomax Project performs two nights on campus-Showing two nights this upcoming week, the Jayme Stone’s Lomax Project is sure to be a hit in the Smith’s Fine Art Series. The Lomax Project was inspired by Alan Lomax, who documented the intimate history of remote places of the U.S., Caribbean, Europe, and North Africa. By recording the voices of people around diverse […]
How to write a killer scholarship essay-Who doesn’t want free money for college? Applying for scholarships can be a fantastic way to help pay for classes and textbooks. And with WOU’s general scholarship deadline of March 1, it’s time to get busy. The application process is competitive. Many scholarship programs require you to write an essay along with your application. Making […]
Child Development Center adds SMART reading program-After a fall term spent organizing, scouting and preparing, the Child Development Center on Jan. 18 started welcoming volunteers with Start Making a Reader Today for weekly visits to Western Oregon University. The seven SMART volunteers read one on one with children for an hour each Wednesday morning, providing personal attention and sharing their enthusiasm […]
Meet new faculty member Dr. Melissa Cannon-Dr. Melissa Cannon joined Western Oregon University fall 2016 as an assistant professor in Gerontology. She joined WOU after earning completing her Ph.D. in urban studies at Portland State University. Her dissertation was titled Challenges, Experiences, and Future Directions of Senior Centers Serving the Portland Metropolitan Area. We asked her some questions to get to know one […]
Costuming for “All in the Timing”-All in the Timing is a unique play composed of six smaller plays and only utilizes six actors, which can make costuming a challenge. Between the quick scene changes and the limited space, the base costume pieces needed to be more plain and rely heavily on accessory pieces for functionality. The actors stay on the stage the […]
Ryan Kingsella strives for MICC-WOU cooperation-Ryan Kingsella ’16 started as the executive director of the Monmouth and Independence Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center at the beginning of the year. The Western Oregon University alumnus is ready to build a stronger connection between the two towns and the university. A bond already exists, the 28-year-old early childhood education major said. WOU […]
Out & Proud to be celebrated with three February events-Out & Proud is an annual celebration at WOU that explores the various cultures and ethnic backgrounds within the LGBTQ community. This year, there are two events planned Feb. 8 and a ball set for Feb. 10. Coordinator Katherine Macias-Torres is spearheading the Feb. 8 events, and the sophomore pre-nursing student said she’s excited to […]
“All in the Timing” – a series of wacky events-Director Kent Neely describes All in the Timing simply as a “ridiculous comedy.” The title, which comprises six short plays, doesn’t lean toward social commentary, parody or satire. It’s just pure fun with a heavy focus on wordplay, absurdity and the examination of personal relationships, all set in a comedy club-type atmosphere. “The interactions and […]
Changes seen through Campus Dining-To say Albert Worotikan hit the ground running in his new job as director of campus dining would be a serious understatement. He was sharing his ideas for improvements before he even landed the post. “I was showing them plans for my ideas during my job interview,” he said with a chuckle. “I think that’s […]
Laura Gage: anthropology alumna on the go-Most of what people need to know about 2010 grad Laura Gage’s world view can be found in the title of her YouTube channel: “Laura the Explorer.” She’s a world traveler, and she attributes her adaptability to her time at Western Oregon University. Gage has taken the knowledge gained during courses for her anthropology major […]
Wou in the news: WOU’s record-setting performances land weekly honor-PORTLAND, Ore. – The Western Oregon men’s and women’s track and field teams combined to break two GNAC records and five school records at the University of Washington Invitational over the weekend to claim this week’s Red Lion/GNAC Team of the Week honor. David Ribich broke the WOU and GNAC records in the men’s mile, […]
Western Accessibility Awareness Month returns in February-Western Accessibility Awareness Month hits the ground running with the main event on the first day of the month. The annual awareness event is meant to promote, celebrate, and build awareness about disability and accessibility at WOU through a series of presentations. The primary WAAM event on Feb. 1 will be Dr. Kathleen Bogart’s address […]
WOU in the news: The man behind ‘Oregon, My Oregon’-John Andrew Buchanan was a teacher, attorney, poet, state representative and municipal judge, but he’s best known as the lyricist behind the state song, “Oregon, My Oregon.” His granddaughter, Carol Lambert, 85, is the proud keeper of his legacy. She’s raising money to erect a two-sided, granite memorial at his grave in Warrenton’s Ocean View […]
Public health alum Eli Cox prescribes an ounce of prevention-Western Oregon University alumni Eli Cox has come full circle. Not so long ago, he was a sophomore struggling to gain a foothold on a career path. With the help of patient and supportive WOU instructors, he finally navigated his way to a degree in a field he’s passionate about: public health. Now, six years […]
WOU in the news: Les Watanabe on Alvin Ailey, Lar Lubovitch, Donald McKayle and his life in dance-At 2 and 7:30 pm on Saturday, January 21, Laura Stilwell, Felice Moskowitz, Terry Brock and Emma Mochnick will dance Les Watanabe’s Love Songs, part of Fertile Ground’s Groovin’ Greenhouse, hosted by Polaris Dance Theatre. I was initially interested in learning more about Watanabe when I heard that Love Songs was being performed by a […]
Ron Wyden visits WOU-As part of his commitment to the state of Oregon, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden visited Western Oregon University on Saturday January 14. Upon being elected Senator Wyden pledged to visit every county in Oregon, every year and as of 2017 has held well over 700 town hall meetings. The major issues presented at the town hall […]
WOU in the news: Two Tigerwolves, one Tiger–together-MONMOUTH — Two Timberwolves. Add in a Tiger. Put them together on the same team. Heck, put them all on the court at the same time. What do you get? A renewed rivalry? Nope, you get those rivals working together, having fun and providing a spark. And the Western Oregon University women’s basketball team is […]
Civil Rights Film Series kicks off tonight-It’s winter term at Western Oregon University, and that means the opportunity to learn more about civil rights and the clash of class and race is again upon us. Starting today, the Civil Rights Film Series gets under way on its term-long run, starting with Citizen King, an overview of the life of Dr. Martin […]
You Got Accepted: Now What?-Congratulations! You got accepted to Western Oregon University, but you’re not done yet! There are a few things that still need to be done before you begin school in the fall. The first thing you want to do is create a username and password for WOU portal. This will be a very important resource to […]
Community events in January and February-Want to do something fun this winter? Here are a few events in Salem, Polk County, and other surrounding areas to get you started! Figure and Form: African Ceramics from the Keith Achepohl Collection January 13 to 29 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday thru Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The […]
MLK Jr. Celebration Annual Dinner headlines week of commemoration events-Each year, the days following the observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday are full of events designed to honor the civil rights leader’s vision. For the 2017 celebration at Western Oregon University, there are five activities planned for students, faculty, staff and the community that aim to do just that. The main event […]
WOU in the news: Chargers wide receiver Williams finalist for NFL award-When it comes to NFL bargains, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone who provides more bang for the buck than San Diego Chargers wide receiver Tyrell Williams. The second-year pro from Western Oregon University is a finalist for the 10th annual VIZIO Top Value Performer trophy, an award given to the the NFL player […]
WOU scholarship program adjusted to support reservists denied G.I. Bill-Last month, WOU President Rex Fuller learned that 36 Oregon members of the Marine Corps Reserves had been denied G.I Bill education benefits during a six-month deployment to Honduras. Despite their time spent renovating a hospital, building a school and completing other aid projects, the reservists learned when they arrived home that they had not […]
WOU in the news: Chamber director ready to jump in-MONMOUTH/INDEPENDENCE — Ryan Kingsella has a passion for helping his community in positive ways. “There’s no cooler feeling than knowing that I’ve really helped a business succeed,” he said. Kingsella, 28, started his job as director of the Monmouth Independence Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center on Sunday, though the work didn’t really start until […]
WOU in the news: Kingsella hopes to help people communicate-MONMOUTH — It’s not very large — it fits in the driver’s side visor — and could make a difference in how smoothly a routine traffic stop could be for someone who is hard of hearing or deaf. Allison Kingsella, 21, is the driving force behind visor cards to bridge the communication gap between police […]
Best toy drive in campus history-Each holiday season, Western Oregon University’s community comes together to collect toys and gifts for local foster youth of all ages. We’re excited to announce that this year the community collected the most toys in the drive’s history. Local staff from the Department of Human Services rely on support from our community to help provide […]
Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Barbara Dearing to retire-Barbara Dearing will retire June 30, 2017, as its executive director of intercollegiate athletics at Western Oregon University. “I have been blessed to have been involved with WOU Athletics,” Dearing said. “It’s been an honor to work alongside the coaching and athletics administrative staff whose focus has been about the student-athlete experience, and how that experience […]
WOU in the news: Latt named associate director of special programs-The Sherwood School District is pleased to announce the hiring of Eryn Latt as associate director of special programs. Latt comes to Sherwood from the Greater Albany Public School District, where she served in various roles since 2008. Among them, are serving as a special education teacher at North Albany Middle School (2008-2012) and West […]
WOU in the news: University students face food insecurity-Imagine having to decide between paying for a course textbook or your next meal. Situations like that are becoming more common for students in higher education. “I had a student come in … who hadn’t seen vegetables for three years,” said Grecia Garcia, who helps oversee the Chemeketa Community College pantry. “We want students to focus on their studies, […]
Letter from President Fuller-Dear Campus Community: The national discussion following the election has raised many concerns among our most vulnerable groups of students. We gathered on November 11 to remind our students of the support that our university has for all students and to remind ourselves that we have nurtured a caring, inclusive community at Western. Now, more […]
De-stress during Dead Week-Fall term 2016 is coming to a close, but there are still plenty of events to attend before heading off for winter break. If you’re looking to take a break from the books, here’s what you can find around campus. Tuesday, November 29 Free Massages: 12-2pm in the Ochoco room, WUC. Sponsored by Student Engagement, sign […]
WOU in the news: An Anchorage police officer tries a new approach to tackle neighborhood crime concerns-As a crime prevention student at an Oregon college, Robin Nave researched local crime concerns with a door-to-door survey. Nearly two decades later, Nave, now a 12-year veteran of the Anchorage Police Department, is bringing back her college research technique to help Anchorage residents feel safer. Earlier this year, Nave created a crime survey for […]
WOU in the news: Clackamas Community College, Western Oregon University partner in dual enrollment agreement-Clackamas Community College and Western Oregon University signed a dual enrollment agreement Nov. 14 that creates a supportive pathway for students between the two schools. “We are excited to work with Western Oregon University in creating another opportunity for Clackamas Community College students who want to complete their bachelor’s degree,” CCC President Joanne Truesdell said. […]
WOU in the news: Science teachers net prestigious awards-Science teachers Terry Evers and Toni Hanson have quite a bit in common. Both have spent their entire careers in the Newberg School District, at Ewing Young elementary and Mountain View middle school, respectively, and split their time between the classroom and serving as instructional facilitators. Each is also known for designing hands-on learning activities […]
WOU in the news: Western invites community input-MONMOUTH — When Rex Fuller was first hired as Western Oregon University’s president in April 2015, he anticipated having conversations with the campus community and residents of the surrounding area. This year, those conversations took a more formal approach. In April 2016, a committee of 25 people representing a cross-section of campus started working in […]
The Northwest Passage wants your opinion-The presidential election of 2016 split the country in half and no matter which way you voted, it’s important to have an outlet of thoughts and opinions. The next issue of the Northwest Passage, WOU’s literary and art magazine, will be completely online, and is accepting submissions until December 9. Submissions to this special issue […]
WOU in the news: Western Oregon no longer requires SAT, ACT scores-Students applying for admission to Western Oregon University will no longer be required to submit an ACT or SAT test score. This change goes into effect for fall 2017 applicants with a cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher and who have successfully passed the required college prep high school courses, according to a Western Oregon […]
Free concerts to enjoy through the term-If you are finding it hard to relax as the end of the term approaches and need an evening of escape, no worries WOU’s Music Department understands. Here are the free upcoming concerts from now until the end of the term to help you unwind. Nov. 14 – 7:30 p.m. – Smith Music Hall 121 […]
International Education Week-November 14 marks the beginning of this years International Education Week (IEW), an annual event that focuses on the advantages of global involvement in education. Beginning with a joint initiative between the U.S. Department of State as well as the U.S. Department of Education, IEW promotes programs and organizations that include study abroad as well as […]
Fall theatre production: “Machinal” by Sophie Treadwell-On November 10, the WOU Theatre Department will be putting on Machinal, a play written by Sophie Treadwell and directed by theater professor Michael Phillips. This play seems like a hollowing echo of the struggle of women through the decades to be more than just a household necessity and instead their own person. The story of Machinal is […]
WOU in the news: Smart comes to Western Oregon-MONMOUTH — Oregon’s largest volunteer-based literacy program, SMART (Start Making A Reader Today) announced it will open a program at The Child Development Center at TRI on the campus of Western Oregon University. SMART delivers one-on-one reading support for TRI’s preschool students, who also will receive up to 14 new books to take home and […]
The Cannon Gallery of Art highlights students from the Pacific Northwest-The Cannon Gallery of Art is opening its second exhibition of the year on Wednesday. The exhibition is called New Ventures: Student Design Exhibition and was originally created for the 2014 Portland AIGA Design Educators Conference. This will be the second showing of these pieces that were compiled from students all over Oregon and parts […]
Thanksgiving in the community-It’s that time of year again! On the way to December and January holidays and celebrations, first stop is Thanksgiving. If you have yet to make any plans, here are some Thanksgiving activities and meals in the community! Click on the event links for locations and prices and as they will vary. Worried about having to […]
Voter registration drive surpasses goal-The voting process is one that takes place predominately on a local level. It is a chance for everyone’s voice to be heard, and their opinions to be brought forward. In recent years the effort has reached even further to include college students by the masses. It involves getting students registered in advance, keeping them […]
Get to Know Your Admissions Counselor: Rob Findtner-It’s time to learn about another WOU admissions counselor! Next up is Rob Findtner. Find out what his advice is for incoming freshmen! What territory do you cover? Multnomah County (Oregon) and the state of Hawaii. Where is your favorite place to eat when you are on the road? I have a tendency to pack […]
WOU stops requiring the ACT or SAT-Students applying for admission to Western Oregon University will no longer be required to submit an ACT or SAT test score. This change goes into effect for fall 2017 applicants with a cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher and who have successfully passed the required college prep high school courses. “Our admission requirements […]
Everything you need to know about voting in the election-There is less than one week before the 2016 general election and whether you like the politics of the season or not, it’s important to know the logistics of voting and who is involved. Polk county ballot drop-offs With vote-by-mail in Oregon, we are fortunate to not have to wait in lines to return our votes, […]
WOU enrolls its most diverse class of new students-Western Oregon University welcomes the fall 2016 entering class of freshmen and transfer students – its most culturally diverse in the 160-year history of the Oregon’s oldest public university. WOU President Rex Fuller said, “Western Oregon University’s strengths are many, and are all focused around our mission of educating each student in a manner that prepares […]
WOU in the news: Visiting professor helps music teachers combat student anxiety-Musicians and music teachers learned about combating performance anxiety on Saturday during a workshop with Dr. Diane Baxter. Baxter is a Professor of Music at Western Oregon University and has performed all over the world. The free public workshop in Hermiston was made possible by the Oregon Music Teachers Associations and Oregon Community Foundation. Baxter […]
Speaker to talk about Native American and tribal policy issues-Tonight is the next in a series of talks about Native American and tribal policy issues. These talks are part of the political science (PS 425) “Native American Politics and Policy” course, but all are invited (both students and the local community) as the speakers will address broader issues. The class looks at Native American history, […]
WOU in the news: Former JDHS QB racks up 445 yards, 4 TDs for Western Oregon-No matter the situation, Western Oregon University quarterback Phillip Fenumiai of Juneau goes all out on the football field. His effort isn’t dictated by the scoreboard. So when the Wolves trailed Humboldt State by three touchdowns in the second half he just kept playing. In the end, Fenumiai didn’t get the win. But he gained […]
Fall Preview Day-Western Oregon University’s fall preview is just around the corner! Preview days are only offered once a term, so if you have applied for WOU and want to see campus, or are considering applying, now is your chance to come see why WOU is the right choice for you! Registration is open from now until […]
WOU in the news: DII football – meet the Wes Welker of Western Oregon – Paul Revis-Even now, two-plus years into a career that sets records and defies convention, Paul Revis feels the doubts. He lines up against defenders who he knows dismiss the numbers and question the scouting report, because they see a guy just shy of 5-9 and who weighs 165 pounds only with rocks in his pockets. But […]
WOU hosts Humboldt on Homecoming, Senior Day-The 2016 WOU homecoming football game takes place Saturday, Oct. 22 at 12:37 p.m. Details on how to watch, game preview, and more are below. Game No. 8 VS Western Oregon (3-4, 2-3 GNAC) vs. Humboldt State (3-4, 1-4 GNAC) Oct. 22, 2016 • McArthur Field (2,500) – Monmouth, Ore. / 12:37 p.m. PT […]
WOU in the news: Indy Latino liaison reaches out-INDEPENDENCE — For three years, the city of Independence has had a community liaison focused on improving connections between government and Latino residents. Community liaisons were filled by interns, until now. The outreach was so successful, the city hired a full-time community liaison, Erubiel Valladares. “My job is to figure out how the community interacts with […]
Homecoming 2016 Preview-Homecoming week is a great time to celebrate what it means to be a Wolf, for students and alumni alike. Here is a run down of what you can find around campus the week of October 17! Student Schedule: Monday October 17 Fifth Annual Fundie Run – Starts at 5: 30pm the Stadium and ends at the […]
Get to know your admissions’ counselor: Micah Howe-Western Oregon University’s admissions counselors travel to different high schools to chat with prospective students about what it’s like to be a WOU student and answer any questions they may have. We have asked each of the counselor’s a set of questions to get to know a little more about them, and ask what information they’d like […]
How to schedule an individual campus tour-WOU offers many different visitation programs and Preview Days to give prospective students a chance to see what life on campus is like and a feel for the university. However, there are only so many offered per term. If none of the special visitation program dates fit into your schedule, there is always the option to create your […]
Fun community events in October-It’s October, which means it’s finally the holiday season. These next three months make it impossible to be bored as week after week is full of events. There’s upcoming festivals, pumpkin patches, shows, and other events to celebrate the fall season and holidays. To help you keep track of some of the events coming up this […]
What is Your World at WOU?-Registration for “Your World at WOU” ends next Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 5 p.m., but what is “Your World at WOU”? This is a free campus visitation program that allows prospective students to attend information sessions and get a chance to look around the WOU campus. Some of the sessions include Financial Aid and Scholarships, […]
It’s FAFSA Time!-Are you in need of financial aid for the 2017-18 school year? The first step to applying for aid is filling out FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This is a tool to help you apply for grants, work-study, and loans, all through one simple application. In the past, FAFSA has opened on […]
Western Oregon University to make early financial aid awards-Western Oregon University announced it will make estimated financial aid awards for the 2017-18 academic year available in December 2016 for prospective freshman and transfer students. This action will allow incoming WOU students significantly more time to receive and understand their financial aid if they choose to attend WOU. The U.S. Department of Education now […]
Cannon Gallery kicks off fall exhibitions with local artist-This week the Cannon Gallery of Art in Campbell hall will be opening its first exhibition of the year titled “Whomever Brought Me Here is Going to Have to Take me Home.” This exhibition is full of paintings from Tim Timmerman who has been an artist starting from a very young age. Timmerman continued his art […]
WOU Athletics celebrates the life of Hall of Fame track coach Don Spinas-Don Spinas, the long-time head track and field coach at Western Oregon University, passed away Thursday, Sept. 22 at the age of 83. Spinas is one of the most decorated coaches in the history of WOU track and field. During his tenure at Western Oregon (then Oregon College of Education and Western Oregon State […]
WOU in the news: Western Oregon opens new education building-The Richard Woodcock Education Center, new home of Western Oregon University’s College of Education, opened this week. The 58,000-square-foot building is the first multi-story building in Oregon constructed with cross-laminated timber. This is the first time the three divisions of the College of Education will be under one roof, including nearly 100 offices and 23 classrooms. […]
WOU in the news: Gut wrenching images: Rick Bartow’s ‘Things You Know But Cannot Explain’ exhibition-Rick Bartow walked onto his spirit journey on April 2, 2016 due to congestive heart disease. He had suffered two strokes, the last in August 2013. According to the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts, this life-changing event affected his work and we see it in the collection as “exciting examples of Bartow’s production since […]
WOU in the news: Tyrell Williams looks to go on attack mode-A football floated toward Tyrell Williams in the back-right corner of the end zone Sunday, the type of ball made for a man of his measure. The 6-foot-4 Chargers wide receiver had a good 4 inches on Ron Parker in coverage. Not only that but Parker’s back was to the ball, the Chiefs safety not tracking its […]
WOU ranked highest among Oregon public universities in 2017 U.S. News & World Report college listings-U.S. News & World Report ranked Western Oregon University highest of Oregon’s regional public universities in the 2017 annual higher education rankings released today. WOU was named 19th among “top public schools” in the regional universities (west) category and 67th overall in regional universities (west) category (10 spots up from last year’s 77th ranking). These […]
Western Oregon University waives application fees for members of the Armed Forces-Western Oregon University has continued its expansion of services for members of the military and their families. Effective August 1, 2016, WOU will waive the $60 undergraduate and graduate application fees for current members of the armed services and former members who were honorably discharged. “Western Oregon University appreciates the service and sacrifices that members […]
WOU in the news: Multi-Story Buildings Going Up Using cross-laminated timber-CLT Promises New Construction Boom in the Future, Pilot Programs Under Development in Oregon Multi-Story Buildings Going Up in Oregon Using cross-laminated timber (CLT). The use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) in multi-story buildings is no longer just something people are talking about. In Oregon, two new buildings that feature CLT are almost complete, and construction […]
WOU in the news: Education Center Ready For Debut-The Richard Woodcock Education Center is bustling with activity, but not from students — not yet. It’s faculty and staff who are moving into the new building for Western Oregon University’s Department of Education. Dean of Education Mark Girod is excited to have a base of operations for the 800 education majors on campus, as […]
Fall sports tickets now on sale-Season ticket packages and single-game tickets for the 2016 Western Oregon Athletics fall season are now available for purchase online or at the WOU Ticket Office. Various ticket packages are available for football, volleyball and women’s soccer. For more information on purchasing tickets, click here. Women’s soccer opens the season at home on Thursday, […]
Women’s Basketball named to WBCA Academic Top 25-The Western Oregon women’s basketball team was honored Tuesday by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) after the announcement of the 2015-16 Academic Top-25 Team Honor Roll. With a team grade point average of 3.566, the Wolves ranked 21st in NCAA Division II and topped all Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) women’s hoops teams. […]
WOU in the news: Prestige program engages seniors-With age comes the freedom of retirement, the joy of grandchildren and the wisdom gained from lifelong experiences. But, it can also come with the reality of memory loss, diminished strength and the inherent risk of injuries from accidents and falls. To help today’s seniors improve their overall well-being, Prestige Care has launched a new […]
WOU in the news: New teachers get hands-on geography lesson-Two teaching graduates from OSU-Cascades returned from their trip to Spain and Portugal last week where they studied physical and human geography with the Center for Geography Education in Oregon at Portland State University. Heidi Wilson and Amanda Mattei received their Oregon preliminary teaching licenses from Oregon State University this summer and participated in the […]
WOU honored most dedicated donors at annual President’s Club Dinner-On July 8, 2016, Western Oregon University’s most dedicated financial supporters were honored at the annual President’s Club Dinner. The event was held at Illahe Hills Country Club and featured toasts by Paul Kyllo, WOU Foundation Board chair, recent alumna Dominique Figueroa, President Rex Fuller, and Jim Baumgartner, chair of WOU’s Board of Trustees. Music […]
WOU in the news: WOU Breaks Ground On Health Center-MONMOUTH — Western Oregon University will soon have a new facility for the Student Health and Counseling Center, scheduled for opening in spring 2017. Campus officials held a groundbreaking ceremony Friday, which included a blessing from tribal elder Bob Tom. The center will be built with increased student tuition fees, but associated student body president […]
WOU in the news: Globe Trotter-Published by: Polk County Itemizer-Observer Written by: Lukas Eggen MONMOUTH — Las Vegas has long been a city where people go to bet big with the hope of hitting the jackpot. It seems fitting that the city would serve as the setting where former Western Oregon men’s basketball player Devon Alexander will go all-in as he […]
WOU in the news: Western Oregon University’s unique role-On a hot Willamette Valley morning last month, in the middle of the black robes and snapping cameras of graduation season, more than 800 brand new alumni collected bachelor’s degrees at Western Oregon University in Monmouth. It wasn’t the largest class among the state universities, and nobody occupied the stage in protest, but the occasion […]
What is SOAR?-Summer Orientation Advising and Registration (SOAR) is a way for incoming freshman students to get a head start on integrating into Western. SOAR helps students set up their classes with help from faculty advisers and get used to the new campus. SOAR also aligns students with PLUS Team team members which can help answer their […]
Wolves football game vs. HSU to be aired on ASN-The Western Oregon football team’s Homecoming and Senior Day game against Humboldt State (Oct. 22) has been picked up for a national television broadcast on the American Sports Network as part of the 2016 Division II Football Showcase, the NCAA announced Thursday. The WOU-HSU game will kick off at 12:30 p.m. at McArthur Field […]
Summer Heatwave Concert Series-Staying around Monmouth this summer with nothing to do? Don’t worry, Western Oregon University is having a Summer Heatwave Concert Series. This open to all ages concert series is sponsored by Student Leadership and Activities. It starts this week and runs every Wednesday until the end of July. The concerts run from noon until the party […]
WOU’s 159th Commencement-Congratulations to the class of 2016! Today marks the 159th Commencement for Western Oregon University. Check out some of these interesting stats about our graduating class and stories about many of them. The graduating class of 2016 totals 1,323 individuals that have earned a total of 1,333 degrees. 900 are attending commencement today. 83 percent of […]
Mario & Alma Pastega Award in Staff Excellence: Sharyne Ryals-An unexpected incident led Sharyne Ryals, this year’s Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Staff Excellence recipient, to Western Oregon University. Ryals had always worked in the private sector, and her previous job was at a silicon wafer manufacturer. This industry became an unstable environment to work in, and closed like many other businesses in […]
Maria & Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching: Cheryl Beaver-Dr. Cheryl Beaver has found a way to balance her academic interests at Western Oregon University: mathematics and education. This year’s Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching recipient, she has flourished as a math educator. She and her husband, Dr. Scott Beaver, joined WOU in 2005. Prior to becoming a collegiate educator, […]
Mario & Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship: Darryl Thomas-Darryl Thomas’ interest in dance began with the hope of meeting girls, but quickly grew into a deep adoration for the poetry and beauty of human movement. Thomas, this year’s Mario and Alma Pastega Excellence in Scholarship and Creativity Award recipient, has had an eventful and productive career in dance. It all began in Detroit […]
Julia McCullough Smith Award: Han Vu Gia Nguyen-The year before she came to Western as a freshman, Han Vu Gia Nguyen had moved to the United States from Vietnam with her parents. Now, just five years later, this year’s Julia McCulloch Smith award recipient for outstanding senior female is fluent in a new language, achieved significant academic and extracurricular success, and is […]
Delmer Dewey Award: John Goldsmith-Some students find comfort in classes, some in sports, some in extracurricular activities, while others are happiest with a mix of involvement during their college career. John Goldsmith, this year’s Delmer Dewey award recipient for outstanding senior male, took advantage of as many academic and leadership opportunities as his time and interest afforded. On the […]
Golden Lamp Award: Kayla Corwin-There is no traditional route to Commencement, as Kayla Corwin learned. This Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) graduating student has been an undergraduate for nine years. “I had a long road getting here,” she said. Science has always been a strength of Corwin’s. In high school she took an anatomy class and while her […]
Alumni Award of Excellence: Dennis Tichenor-Dennis Tichenor has dedicated his life to serving others. This year’s recipient of the Alumni Award of Excellence, Tichenor has made a lasting impression on the lives of countless children and young adults. He learned that lesson from his parents, who told him, “If you’re going to do anything, give some things back.” He found […]
Grad profile: Sarah Duhart-Fully set on going to another college, Sarah Duhart changed her mind last second after being offered a position at the WOU’s Writing Center straight out of high school. She says that she hasn’t regretted her decision one bit because it gave her opportunities she would not have had otherwise. Because of the support provided […]
Grad profile: Ashley Baxter-Ashley Baxter Hillsboro, Ore. Community health education major Undergraduate Ashley Baxter is a graduating community health major. Baxter chose WOU because she heard it was affordable and when she toured the campus, she fell in love with the beauty. “I just knew I’d be happier here at this type of university.” Baxter enjoyed the amount of […]
Grad profile: Matt Turner-Matt Turner Prince George, British Columbia Applied exercise science major Undergraduate Matt Turner is a graduating applied exercise science major. He chose WOU because his academic advisor from Chemeketa Community College suggested it for what he was doing, which at the time was pre-physical therapy. His advisor said that WOU was a great school with smaller […]
Grad profile: Mashael Alansari-Mashael Alansari Saudi Arabia Master’s in Education Graduate Mashael Alansari is a graduating masters student getting her master’s in education. She chose WOU because her close friend studied here before her and talked about classes that were interesting. Her friend then encouraged Alansari to apply. She looked at the program and liked the description of […]
Grad Profile: Dominik Heidemeyer-Many move great distances to attend school, but not many in this year’s graduating class traveled as far as Dominik Heidemeyer. Heidemeyer is originally from a small town called Hülm that is on the outskirts of Goch, Germany. He came to Western because it was close to where he ended up living with his wife […]
Grad profile: Kaylee Church-Name: Kaylee Church Age: 21 Major/Minor: Mathematics/psychology Hometown: Damascus, Ore. Favorite campus event: New Student Week/Wind Down Wednesday Best study spot: Study room in Math building Advice to incoming freshman: “Don’t doubt yourself, go with what you like in your activities and studies.” Affordability is what put WOU on Church’s radar when she began searching for colleges. Out-of-state tuition deterred her from […]
Grad profile: Conner Williams-Name: Conner Williams Age: 22 Major/minor: Humanities/economics Hometown: Molalla, Ore. Favorite campus event: New Student Week Best study spot: Terry House Advice to incoming freshman: “Get involved a little earlier. As a freshman, you can easily get caught up in the mindset of having a college experience as it’s shown in movies, but there’s much more to your time in college.” For […]
Grad profile: Shay Guyton-Name: Shay Guyton Age: 21 Major/Minor: Community health education/psychology Hometown: Hillsboro, Ore. Favorite campus event: New Student Week Best study spot: Floor of residence halls, or study rooms in Hamersly Library Advice to incoming freshman: “Keep doing the things you love. Don’t let other people tell you not to do them. I was hesitant to join things as a freshman, but […]
Western Oregon selects Executive Director of Human Resources Desiree Noah - MONMOUTH, Ore. – Dr. Jesse Peters, Western Oregon University President, names Desiree Noah as the university’s Executive Director of Human Resources. Please join us in congratulating Desiree Noah, who will begin her role on June 26th. “Desiree Noah is the right leader at the right time for the Human Resources Team at Western Oregon University. […]
Western Oregon hosts 2nd Hispanic-Serving Institution Summit - 
Another successful Giving Day for Western Oregon University - MONMOUTH, Ore. – The 2023 Western Oregon University Giving Day (Howl from the Heart) was a great success! More than 500 benefactors made gifts to support 74 different funds to benefit students and programs. As of Friday, March 17, $205,795 has been raised due to your generous support. Two scholarship endowments were fully endowed thanks […]
Ricardo Lujan Valerio named Director of Government Relations - MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University President, Jesse Peters, recently named Ricardo Lujan Valerio as the university’s Director of Government Relations, effective January 16th. “I am pleased to welcome Rico to the leadership team at Western. Not only does he have key experience, he is also a first-generation college graduate of a regional university. He […]
Western Oregon presents Considering Matthew Shepard - MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Smith Fine Arts Series presents a striking lineup of shows this 2022-2023 season, including Considering Matthew Shepard on March 3rd and 11th, 2023. The March 3rd performance supports the WOU choral program. Considering Matthew Shepard, a Grammy-nominated, three-part fusion oratorio by Craig Hella Johnson, was written as a musical […]
Katie Wojke named Vice President of Advancement at WOU - MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University President, Jesse Peters, recently named Katie Wojke as the university’s Vice President of Advancement, effective January 30. “She is a productive fundraiser, partnering with donors to support students, faculty, and programs. Katie is driven by the compelling mission of access to higher education and the development of outstanding future […]
WOU’s Board of Trustees Slated to Appoint Dr. Jesse Peters as University President - MONMOUTH, Ore.—The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees plans to appoint Dr. Jesse Peters as the university’s next president at its June 8, 2022 meeting. Dr. Peters will succeed retired president Dr. Rex Fuller and interim president Dr. Jay Kenton. Dr. Jesse Peters is the current Dean of Arts & Sciences at Ft. Lewis College […]
Holocaust Remembrance Day - Holocaust Remembrance Day begins Wednesday, April 27th and ends the evening of Friday, April 29th. Each year, Western Oregon University puts on an event to commemorate the lives lost during the Holocaust. The Holocaust encylopedia defines, “The Holocaust was the systematic, state-sponsored persecution and murder of six million European Jews by the Nazi German regime […]
Ava Howard Teaches Research Skills with BI409 Practicum - Dr. Ava Howard is a Biology professor at Western Oregon University who recently taught a field research practicum course over the summer. She has been teaching plant biology and ecology at WOU for 13 years. In addition to teaching, she is also involved in creating scholarship and research opportunities for students, which she is very […]
National Student Exchange student at WOU shares about her experience - WOU student Nicole “Nickie” Hayes from Poughkeepsie, N.Y., has been featured in her home region’s local newspaper. She talks about why NSE was a great solution for her and why she selected WOU for her exchange site. Check out Nickie’s story!
WOU Alum Greg Garcia Wins Oregon History Teacher of the Year Award - Greg Garcia, an alum of Western Oregon University and teacher at Franklin High School with Portland Public Schools, was named the 2021 Oregon History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History in July. To honor this inspiring achievement, we want to share the highlights from our interview with him. When […]
Willamette Promise Student Leadership Institute Brings Students to Campus - In partnership with the Willamette Education Service District, WOU hosted the Willamette Promise Student Leadership Institute in August. I interviewed Addie Howell, the Accelerated Learning Manager at Willamette Promise, about the program, and what it aims to do for students. Ok, big picture: What is the Willamette Promise? What is its mission? The Willamette Promise […]
MLK Celebration Week at WOU Promotes Black Excellence Through Storytelling - Western Oregon University’s week of activities celebrating the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is Jan. 17-21. I interviewed Alexis Larson, a member of the 2022 MLK Jr. Celebration Week Planning Committee, about the inspiration of the events of the week. The overarching theme of this year’s celebration is promoting Black excellence […]
Bilingual Teacher Scholars program expands scholarships and eligibility - Oregon has experienced a shortage of bilingual teachers for many years, and Western Oregon University (WOU) has been working to address this gap while trying to help diversify the state’s teacher workforce with our Bilingual Teacher Scholars (BTS) program. BTS provides bilingual and bicultural students (in Spanish and English) with an annual scholarship of $3,000, […]
WOU Instructors Play Major Role in Expansion of Protactile Language - Western Oregon University’s DeafBlind Interpreting National Training & Resource Center was recently awarded a five-year, $2.1 million grant for interpreter training. OPB’s Think Out Loud filmed a show about the grant and Protactile in November, which ran Jan. 5. DBI’s lead educator, Jelica Nuccio, is a DeafBlind leader in the Protactile movement and is among those […]
National Student Exchange Program Creates Opportunities for Students - The National Student Exchange (NSE) program is hosting several informational sessions this January for all who are interested! In anticipation of these sessions, I had the pleasure of interviewing NSE coordinator Emmanuel Macías and Liam Birr, a NSE participant, about the wonderful opportunities made possible through the program. NSE is a domestic collegiate study-away program, […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship: Melanie Landon-Hays - The Mario and Alma Pastega Awards of Excellence were given in June 2021, but because of timing issues, three faculty profiles were not included in the Commencement program. They are offered here instead and on the Pastega Award web page. —- The Award for Excellence in Service recognizes faculty accomplishment in service, honoring work that engages […]
WOU Men’s Rugby Team to Compete in National Championship - The WOU Men’s Rugby team has gone undefeated in all of its conference matches this year! As conference and regional champions, the team has qualified for the National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) championships in Houston, Texas. There they will compete with the champions from the other three regions for the title of national champions. I had […]
Forensic Anthropology Professors Host Podcast - Dr. Misty Weitzel and Jerielle Cartales teach forensic anthropology here at WOU who have started a podcast together titled Cabin Femur: Forensic Anthropology in the Age of Quarantine. The following is a curated version of my interview with them about the podcast and forensic anthropology in general. Jasper: Okay, why don’t we just hit the […]
New Destination Western Program Succeeds in Preparing Students - Destination Western (DW) is an all-new two-week residential program that wrapped up prior to the start of the 2021-22 academic year. I had the dual pleasure of not only participating in the program itself, but also interviewing some of the brilliant minds behind it. Megan Habermann is the director of new student and family programs […]
Getting to Know Some of our Student Veterans - In honor of Veteran’s Day, we want to introduce you to some of our student veterans here at WOU. Thank you to the students who talked with us, and thank you to all veterans for your service. Jake Sutherby Jake Sutherby has been part of the WOU SVA club since 2016, and is its current […]
Linguistics Professor David Hargreaves Publishes New Poetry Collection - Dr. David Hargreaves has been a professor of linguistics here at WOU since 1998. He has recently published a collection of original poems, titled Running Out of Words for Afterwards. I had the pleasure of interviewing him about this new book, and how it was inspired by his experiences studying the Nepal Bhasa language in […]
Western Oregon University’s Smith Fine Arts Series opens season with international jazz singer Halie Loren - The Smith Fine Arts Series at Western Oregon University (WOU) is pleased to celebrate its 44th season returning to live, in-person performances at Rice Auditorium on the WOU campus. The 2021-22 season includes six events, and each begin at 7:30 p.m. The season opens on Friday, Oct. 8 with international jazz singer/songwriter Halie Loren. […]
Western Oregon University receives $2.1 million to increase support for DeafBlind individuals - The DeafBlind Interpreting National Training & Resource Center (DBI) in Western Oregon University’s Research & Resource Center with Deaf* Communities received a $2.1 million dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). The grant supports the DBI’s work to increase the number of qualified Protactile language interpreters with the expertise to […]
WOU:Salem Campus - Western Oregon University opened the doors to its new Salem campus in the Vick building, at 525 Trade St, after a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, Sept. 20. The ceremony included remarks from Chuck Bennett (mayor of Salem), Jay Kenton (WOU’s interim president), Rex Fuller (former WOU president), Logan Jackson (Associated Students of Western Oregon University […]
Western Oregon University’s Salem campus opens in Vick Building - Western Oregon University (WOU) officially opens its doors to the new WOU:Salem campus in the downtown Vick building (525 Trade St.) with a grand opening ceremony on Monday, Sept. 20 at 10 a.m. “We are delighted to be Oregon’s first public university to have a permanent presence in Salem,” said WOU Interim President Jay […]
Rodrigues Named First Men’s Soccer Coach In Program History - Stanley Rodrigues, having spent multiple years coaching throughout the Western Region, returns back to the Pacific Northwest to become the first-ever head Men’s Soccer coach at Western Oregon University as announced by director of athletics Randi Lydum on Wednesday. “We are excited to have Stan Rodrigues join our staff and begin building our men’s soccer […]
Live Q&A Wrap-up: August 19 - Every other Thursday during the summer (and weekly during the rest of the academic year), we hold a live Q&A from 10-11 a.m. on WOU’s Instagram and Facebook accounts. In case you missed it, here are some questions that came up during today’s Q&A. When do textbooks go on sale for fall term? Monday, […]
Spotted on Campus: Filming for TV Segment - CWhat’s on-air personality Nicole DeCosta sat down with ASWOU President Logan Jackson ’22 in the new Welcome Center on Wednesday to film a short television segment. The pair chatted about WOU’s rolling admissions and how it’s not too late for people to apply and enroll at Western for fall term, which begins Sept. 27. DeCosta said […]
Western Oregon University and Willamette University develop program for WOU students to seek a graduate law degree - Western Oregon University (WOU) and Willamette University signed an agreement yesterday to make it easier for WOU students interested in law to pursue a graduate degree at Willamette University College of Law (Willamette Law). This program admits WOU undergraduate students and alumni who meet certain academic credentials to Willamette Law and gives each student […]
Grad Profile: Ruby Van Dyke - Ruby Van Dyke is a 2021 graduate from Santa Rosa, California. Their major is Gerontology: Aging and Older Adulthood. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because it is one of two schools in the Northwest (NorCal to Washington) with a bachelor’s in gerontology, and I love the rain more than anything. […]
Grad Profile: Raynie Ehret - Raynie Ehret is a 2021 graduate from Olympia, Washington. She is a Business major with a concentration in Marketing/Management, plus a minor in Spanish with a certificate in Translating and Interpreting. What has your experience been like as a student in the Honors Program? Yes, I am a part of the Honors Program at […]
Grad Profile: Karina Ortiz Ramirez - Karina Ortiz Ramirez is a 2021 graduate from Salem, Oregon. Her major is Early Childhood/Elementary Education, with a minor in ESOL/Bilingual Education. How has being a Dreamer impacted your journey to and within college? Being a Dreamer impacted my journey to and within college by always giving me the motivation to keep going and […]
Grad Profile: Morgan McLain - Morgan McLain is a 2021 graduate from Roseburg, Oregon. He completed an Elementary Master of Arts in Teaching degree. Are you a transfer student? If so, where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? The eMAT Graduate Program was my first experience at Western Oregon University. The experience that I’ve […]
Grad Profile: Suzanne Duda - Suzanne Duda is a 2021 Master’s Program graduate from Albany, Oregon. She is majoring in Elementary Education. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU for several reasons. First, I was already familiar with WOU, having earned my paralegal certification there, and because I had worked in the Public Relations department for a year. […]
Grad Profile: Reyna K. Aguiar - Reyna K. Aguiar is a 2021 graduate from Lodi, California. She is majoring in Political Science. Why did you choose WOU? I was ready to go back to school, and I was lucky enough to have a mentor who previously worked with the WOU Public Affairs representative, and she encouraged me to speak with […]
Grad Profile: Emily Creasy - Emily Creasy is a 2021 graduate from Gladstone, Oregon. She is a Social Science major with a concentration in Political Science, plus a minor in Psychology. She is also WOU’s Honorary Political Science Student of the Year. What has the experience been like as a transfer student? I transferred from Clackamas Community College. I […]
Grad Profile: Lily Collinsworth - Lily Collinsworth is a 2021 graduate from Keizer, Oregon. She is an English major. What has the experience been like as a transfer student? I transferred from Chemeketa Community College after I earned my AAOT. While it was tough to transition to a university-level workload, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the level […]
Grad Profile: Johnny Harvey - Johnny Harvey is a 2021 graduate from Tualatin, Oregon. He is a Business and Psychology double major with a minor in Sport Management. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because it seemed like the perfect fit for me. I didn’t want to go to a school that was too big and too […]
Grad Profile: Karen Silva - Karen Silva is a 2021 graduate from Rigby, Idaho. She is a Biology major with a Pre-Professional focus. How has being a Dreamer impacted your journey to and within college? Being a Dreamer at times made it challenging to go through college, being a first-gen student and trying to figure a couple things out […]
Grad Profile: Jasmine Altamirano - Jasmine Altamirano is a 2021 graduate from Portland, Ore. She has earned a Master of Science in Education: Curriculum and Instruction, plus a minor in ESOL Education. What has your experience been like as a first-generation student? I feel a lot of pride in saying that I am the first person in my family […]
Grad Profile: Emily Grande-DePriest - Emily Grande-DePriest is a 2021 graduate from Dufur, Oregon. She is an Early Childhood Studies major with a minor in History. Why did you choose WOU? Originally, I wanted to study both education and ASL, and WOU offers both programs. When I changed my major and minor to Early Childhood Studies (ECS) and History, […]
Grad Profile: Elli Manoogian-O’Dell - Elli Manoogian-O’Dell is a 2021 graduate, earning a Master’of Arts in Teaching. She is from Corvallis, Oregon. What has been your most memorable class? I took a class from Professor Wu during fall term that really changed how I feel about teaching. We discussed curriculum, assessment, and classroom management through the lens of racial […]
Grad Profile: Heather Casey - Heather Casey is a 2021 graduate from Kingman, Arizona. She is majoring in ASL/English Interpreting, with a minor in ASL Studies. What has your experience been like as a transfer student? I transferred to WOU from Coconino Community College in Flagstaff, Arizona in 2018. I have absolutely loved my experience at WOU, and I […]
Grad Profile: Erin Worley - Erin Worley is a 2021 graduate from Dallas, Oregon. She is an Integrated English Studies major with a minor in Communication Studies. What has your experience been like as a student in the Honors Program? I have been involved with WOU’s Honors Program since freshman year, and I have really enjoyed my time in […]
Grad Profile: Cheyan Swan - Cheyan Swan is a 2021 graduate from Las Vegas, Nevada. They are a Writing major with a minor in Sociology. What has your experience been like as a student in the Honors Program? I’ve spent four years in the Honors Program. Although it’s admittedly a lot of work, this program has offered me so […]
Grad Profile: Jenny Rooper - Jenny Rooper is a 2021 graduate from Silverton, Oregon. She is a Pre-Med major. What has your experience been like as a student in the Honors Program? Yes, I am an honors student! I’ve really enjoyed the Honors Program here at WOU, especially in comparison to how it’s run at other schools. Though occasionally […]
Grad Profile: N.J. Johnson - N.J. Johnson is a 2021 graduate from Scappoose, Oregon. He is majoring in Public Policy and Administration, with a minor in Organizational Leadership. N.J. has also served as ASWOU President, and he has received the title of Public Policy and Administration Student of the Year. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU for […]
Grad Profile: Juliana Cameron - Juliana Cameron is a 2021 graduate from Marysville, Washington. She is majoring in Business with a focus in Marketing, and her minor is Health. Juliana is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was recognized as the Don Boderman Volunteer of the Year, as well as being an IFC Committee member. […]
Grad Profile: Parker Marson - Parker Marson is a 2021 graduate from Pleasant Hill, California. He is majoring in Exercise Science with two minors in Human Biology and Chemistry. Why did you choose WOU? I chose Western because of the success of the track and field team, and I was sold by how beautiful the campus was. The small […]
Grad Profile: Emily Beck - Emily Beck is a 2021 graduate from Springfield, Oregon. She is majoring in Psychology, with a minor in Health. Emily is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she received the Psychology Peer Advising Leadership Award. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because it was close to home, affordable, […]
Grad Profile: Channing Bushman - Channing Bushman is a 2021 graduate from Morgan Hill, California. She is majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Special Education and Humanities, plus a minor in American Sign Language Studies. She is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was recognized as the Outstanding Residence Hall Association Executive Board Member […]
Grad Profile: Natalie Dean - Natalie Dean is a 2021 graduate from Eugene, Oregon. She is an English major with a concentration in Writing, and she is an award winner for WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was recognized for earning a Leadership Certificate. What has your experience been like as a first-generation student? I was so nervous to […]
Grad Profile: Carlos Fonseca Jr. - Carlos Fonseca Jr. is a 2021 graduate from Klamath Falls, Oregon. He is a double major in Exercise Science and Physical Education Teacher Education. Carlos is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where he was given a Distinguished Student Leader award, the Arbor Park and Barnum Resident Assistant of the Year award, […]
Grad Profile: Leslie Rincon - Leslie Rincon is a 2021 graduate from Monmouth, Oregon. Her major is in Early Childhood Studies (ECS). What has the experience been like as a transfer student? I transferred from Chemeketa. I earned my degree in Early Childhood Education and my Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (AAOT). It was really easy to transfer over […]
Grad Profile: Cole Hendren - Cole Hendren is a 2021 graduate from Banks, Oregon. He is a Psychology major with a double minor in Organizational Leadership and Communications. Cole is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where he was given a Psychology Peer Advising Leadership Award. Why did you choose WOU? Honestly, as corny as it […]
Grad Profile: Katelyn Hernandez - Katelyn Hernandez is a 2021 graduate from Philomath, Oregon. She has a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice and is currently earning a Masters of Art in Criminal Justice, along with a minor in Youth Crime Studies. Where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? I was a transfer student […]
Grad Profile: Nick Cabacungan - Nick Cabacungan is a 2021 graduate from Honolulu, Hawaii. He is a Biology major with a concentration in Pre-Professional Studies, plus a minor in Chemistry. What has been your most memorable class? The most memorable class has to be Physics with Dr. Schoenfeld. Although his class was tough, he has taught me how to […]
Grad Profile: Antonia Scholerman - Antonia Scholerman is a 2021 graduate from Bend, Ore. She is a History major with a minor in Art History. Antonia is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was recognized with a Distinguished Student Leader award. What has been your favorite annual event at WOU? The Holiday Tree Lighting […]
Grad Profile: Jeanette A. Betancourt Garcia - Jeanette A. Betancourt Garcia is a 2021 graduate from Independence, Ore. She is an Education major with a minor in Bilingual Education/ESOL Endorsement. What has your experience been like as a first-generation student? My experience has been challenging throughout the years, since I am the second one in my family to attend college. My […]
Grad Profile: Alondra M. Bocanegra Guerrero - Alondra M. Bocanegra Guerrero is a 2021 graduate from Independence, Oregon. She is an Early Childhood/Elementary Education major, with a minor in English to Speakers of Other Languages. What has your experience been like as a first-generation student? It has definitely been beyond challenging to navigate through this process all by myself, but I […]
Grad Profile: Brian Ulbricht - Brian Ulbricht is a 2021 graduate from Seaside, Oregon who majored in Public Policy and Administration. Where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? I am a transfer student; I completed my associate’s degree in General Studies from Central Texas College while I was serving on active duty in the […]
Grad Profile: Lily Gallagher - Lily Gallagher is a 2021 graduate from Independence, Oregon. She is a Psychology major with a minor in Gender Studies, and she is an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was given the Abby’s House Social Justice Award. What has the experience been like as a transfer student? Yes! I transferred […]
Grad Profile: Trani Rae Morton - Trani Rae Morton is a 2021 graduate from Chino Hills, California. She is a double major in American Sign Language/English Interpreting and ASL Studies. What has been your most memorable class? I really can’t name just one. I love all of my teachers and the staff interpreters at WOU. If one [specifically] was life […]
Grad Profile: Danielle Cramer - Danielle Cramer is a 2021 graduate from Keizer, Oregon. She’s graduating with an Elementary Master of Arts in Teaching, along with a minor in ESOL Endorsement. What has been your most memorable class? My most memorable class during my eMAT program was 615: Critical Inquiry into the Foundational Narratives of Schooling with Dr. Dana […]
WOU Board Selects Dr. Jay Kenton as Interim President - Western Oregon University welcomes Dr. Jay Kenton as its interim president, beginning July 1 and is expected to stay in the position until a national search for a president concludes at the end of the 2021-22 academic year. Kenton is an experienced higher education leader in Oregon who has supported several public universities during his […]
Lydum Named Director of Athletics - Having served as the interim Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics for Western Oregon University for the past year, Randi Lydum has been named to the permanent role following a national search. Lydum, a graduate of Western Oregon State College, returned to her alma mater in 2012 to take on the role of Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance/SWA. […]
Grad Profile: Amber Gray - Amber Gray is a 2021 graduate from the Oregon coast who is completing a degree in Psychology major with a minor in Health. Where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? I am a transfer student that came over to WOU from Chemeketa Community College in 2019. While at Chemeketa, […]
Math Major Riley Lamont Accepted Into a Fully-Funded Grad Program - This year, five WOU seniors from the Mathematics department were accepted into fully-funded graduate programs–a historic number. One of these 2021 grads is Lily Lamont from Albany, Oregon. She is a Mathematics major with a minor in Spanish. Why did you choose mathematics at WOU? Smaller classes and the campus itself! What was […]
Grad Profile: Kaeli Hancock - Kaeli Hancock is a 2021 graduate from Prineville, Oregon. Their major is Bachelor of Fine Arts in Production Training with a concentration in Stage Management. What has been your most memorable class? My most memorable class has definitely been History of Architecture and Decor with Scott Grim. We created our own handwritten textbooks with […]
Grad Profile: Julz Mudge - Julz Mudge is a 2021 graduate from Des Moines, Wash. She is a Performing Arts major with a double minor in Psychology and Communications. Why did you choose WOU? WOU was the first college I ever toured, and despite numerous other college visits, I always came back to WOU. There was something about it […]
The Why I Love WOU Grand Prize Winner is… - We’re thrilled to announce that the 2021 Why I Love WOU video contest grand prize winner is Amanda Anderson! Anderson, an incoming international student from Jamaica, will join WOU in the fall and plans to major in Art & Design. When asked how the $4,000 scholarship will help with Anderson’s educational goals, she said, […]
Grad Profile: Adam Schaeffer - Adam Schaeffer is a 2021 graduate from Ballwin, Missouri. He’s completing a Master’s of Education with a major in Educational Technology, plus a graduate certificate in Instructional Design. Why did you choose WOU? WOU was local, online, affordable, and had the exact degree I was looking for! Do you have any advice for […]
Grad Profile: Lauren Gerig - Lauren Gerig is a 2021 graduate from Canby, Oregon. She is majoring in Exercise Science with a minor in Human Biology. Lauren is also an award winner from WOU’s Leadership Recognition Month, where she was recognized for earning a Leadership Certificate. What has been your most memorable class? The Anatomy and Physiology sequence was […]
Western Oregon University announces plan to require COVID-19 vaccine for fall 2020 - MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University (WOU) announced today that in preparation for a predominantly in-person fall 2021, COVID-19 vaccinations will be required for students and employees who study or work in person at either the Monmouth or Salem campuses. The vaccine requirement, among other efforts, was announced earlier today to current students in […]
Why I Love WOU Finalists Announced; Grand Prize Voting Now Open - In recent weeks, students worked hard to create videos sharing stories of why they love WOU. Those videos were submitted and scored by volunteer judges. We’ve tabulated those scores and identified the 10 finalists. Congratulations to Alexis Praudins, Amanda Anderson, Angel Cruz, Cheyanne Bumgardner, Jayda Crawford, Kayley Arpaia, Kenzie Moore, Kourtney Branchfield, Piper Matson, and […]
Fall 2021 Admissions are Still Open: Is WOU Right for You? - It’s not too late to apply for WOU! Unlike many other colleges, Western Oregon University is open to applications and registration up until the start of Fall Term every year. WOU strives to make higher education accessible, and part of that process is allowing leeway in regard to students’ individual struggles and obstacles. WOU […]
COVID-19 Vaccines Available on Campus - It’s Go Time! We’ve received notification from Polk County Health that the vaccination clinic in the Pacific Room of the WUC has lots of vaccines available to anyone 18 and older who wants one. They currently are giving Pfizer vaccines, but if you’ve already gotten a first Moderna shot, they can get you that second […]
WOU Faculty Help Create Improved Willamette Promise Spanish Proficiency Exam - This past year, WOU faculty Dr. Patricia Gimenez-Eguibar and Dr. Claudia Costagliola have collaborated with the Willamette Promise team to create a more easily accessible and diverse Spanish proficiency exam to reward potential WOU students with Spanish credits. Their primary goals and following achievements were centered on designing a secure online assessment—given our current virtual […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees approves 2.17% tuition increase, diversity statement, new certificates - The Western Oregon University (WOU) Board of Trustees on Wednesday approved a 2.17% increase in resident undergraduate tuition for the 2021-22 academic year, a decision that confirms WOU’s commitment to affordability for Oregon students. The 2.17% increase is the smallest among all seven public Oregon universities with the exception of Easter Oregon University. The […]
A Message of Support - Dear campus community, George Floyd’s senseless death last summer shook communities, including WOU, to their core. And this week, many of us are anxious about the impending trial verdict. Regardless of the outcome, we want to confirm WOU’s values will not waiver. Black lives matter. They always have mattered and always will. George Floyd’s life mattered. […]
WOU Student and Sociology Professor Co-Write Peer Reviewed Paper - Recently, we had the opportunity to speak with student Quentin Kanta ‘23 about a peer-reviewed paper he co-wrote with visiting assistant professor in the Sociology Department, Dr. Evan Shenkin. Soon, the paper will be published in the United Nations Encyclopedia of Sustainable Development. Kanta, a Political Science major and Social Science minor from Grants Pass, […]
WOU Introduces the Accelerated Undergraduate to Master’s Pathway - Beginning fall 2021, WOU is opening up a new avenue of opportunity to prospective master’s degree students. The Accelerated Undergraduate to Master’s Pathway (AUMP) allows current WOU seniors to complete both undergraduate and graduate credits at once, with a long-term potential of receiving their master’s degree early. Seniors can take up to 16 credits that […]
Nationwide Violence Toward Asian American and Pacific Islander Communities - 
Dana Schowalter: Falls City Pop-Up Soup Kitchen - During the February ice storm and subsequent power outages in local areas, Dr. Dana Schowalter helped create a pop-up soup kitchen in the Falls City Community Center. Her collaborators were WOU alumni Lynn Bailey and TJ Bailey, WOU student parent Amy Houghtaling, as well as Jami Kidd and Donna Creekmore. For two days while serving […]
Commencement 2021 Update - Dear 2021 grads, We appreciate your patience as we’ve worked hard to make plans for our Commencement celebration in June. Thank you to all 2021 grads who responded to our survey about Commencement. From the survey results, it was very clear that an overwhelming majority of grads want three things from the Commencement celebration: 1) […]
Graduation Checklist: What Grads Need to Do as We Approach Commencement - As we get closer and closer to June 12, 2021, graduates need to start checking to ensure they have taken all necessary steps to be eligible and ready for commencement. Here’s a quick checklist of things to consider. APPLY TO GRADUATE: If you haven’t already done so, apply for graduation as soon as possible. It […]
WOU’s Giving Day Raises Over $175,000 - On March 2, 2021, WOU celebrated its annual Giving Day, a day dedicated to raising funds for student scholarships and programs. Students, faculty and staff, and the larger WOU community gathered together to show their support of WOU students and programs. This year, the university was able to raise over $175,000, far exceeding the original […]
Training for Racial Healing and Understanding: A WOU-Led Local Initiative - Dr. Jaclyn Caires-Hurley, a WOU assistant professor in the Department of Education & Leadership, and Dr. Greg Willeford, a WOU Criminal Justice professor, recently created a training program titled Racial Healing and Understanding, following important and sensitive American events regarding racism in 2020. The training is designed for local communities, businesses, and administrators in the […]
What’s the Big Deal with Résumés and Cover Letters? - As a continuation of our graduate series, we’re compiling tips, tricks, and advice on drafting the perfect résumé and cover letter. We’ll discuss what they’re for, why they’re important, and how to impress any employer with your resume and cover letter design. What’s the difference between a résumé and a cover letter? A résumé and […]
How to Use LinkedIn - Article photograph courtesy of LinkedIn As we begin to approach the end of the school year, soon-to-be graduates might be starting to fret over what comes after college. What does life look like after graduation? How do you get a job? How to polish a résumé? What’s the deal with cover letters? As part of […]
MLK Video Contest: Aiyanna Suazo - Aiyanna Suazo is the first place winner of this year’s MLK Video Contest at WOU. She is a first year student and is majoring in Higher/Middle Education. Why do you see Dr. King as an important leader, even today? He’s influential to people all over the world. He led a huge civil rights movement. […]
Giving Day from Students’ Perspectives - Today, WOU is celebrating our annual Giving Day, a day dedicated to raising funds for the university. On this day, the WOU community gathers together to support WOU students, staff, and faculty in the form of financial contributions. I have been lucky enough to participate in the past two Giving Days, and I will be […]
It’s Giving Day! - Today is our annual Giving Day, and we hope you’ll join us by Howling from the Heart wherever you are. Giving Day is Western Oregon University’s most impactful annual tradition that celebrates the power of the Wolves community and what we can do when we come together. We invite you to join alumni, friends, family, […]
WOU Student Adam Dryden Selected PAVE Team Leader of the Month - WOU student Adam Dryden was selected as the January Team Leader of the Month for Peer Advisors for Veteran Education (PAVE). Dryden, who will be graduating this year, is an Exercise Science major from Salem, with a minor in Health Education. We spoke to Dryden about his wonderful honor, as well as how he […]
Howl from the Heart: Isaiah Abraham - Giving Day 2021 is just around the corner (March 2!), and we’re hoping you’ll join us in supporting WOU students’ success. During 2020, each of us has adapted, adjusted and created new realities for ourselves; Western Oregon University was no different. As we plan for the future, we look to the Wolves family to help […]
Howl from the Heart: Nichole Hernandez - Giving Day 2021 is just around the corner (March 2!), and we’re hoping you’ll join us in supporting WOU students’ success. During 2020, each of us has adapted, adjusted and created new realities for ourselves; Western Oregon University was no different. As we plan for the future, we look to the Wolves family to help […]
Student Q&A: Kayley Arpaia - Kayley Arpaia is an active and notable member of WOU’s campus community. She’s a third year Biology major with an emphasis in Zoology, and she is working toward a double minor in ASL and Social Sciences. Why did you choose WOU? I originally chose WOU because I wanted to become an ASL/English Interpreter. I […]
Hamersly Library Amenities - Hamersly Library is packed full of amenities to help students study, research, and create projects. There are a multitude of books to check out, shelved on all three floors, ranging from fiction to textbooks. If a student requires aid searching for resources, they can ask friendly staff, typically at the front desk. Citation guides and […]
Susan Castillo’s Thoughts On WOU - We had the opportunity to talk with Susan Castillo about WOU. She’s a retired vice president of Project Lead The Way, the first Hispanic woman to serve in the Oregon Legislature and a current member of our Board of Trustees. As the granddaughter of Mexican immigrants and the daughter of a mother with only an […]
Student Q&A: Madi Knox - Madi Knox is a third-year student at WOU and an active part of our campus community. She is majoring in Early Childhood/Elementary Education, with a minor in Theatre Arts. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I am from a really small town, so when I came to campus and saw how […]
WOU Secures Grant to Advance Computer Science Education - WOU’s Dr. Lucas Cordova, assistant professor of Computer Science, has acquired a phenomenal grant that benefits WOU employees and students. The grant, a Tier 2 NSF grant that runs to October 2023, is titled “Collaborative Research: Testing Tutor – An Inquiry-Based Pedagogy and Supporting Tool to Improve Student Learning of Software Testing Concepts.” The grant’s […]
Student Q&A: Cheyanne Bumgardner - Cheyanne Bumgardner is a WOU junior and an active part of the campus community. She is an American Sign Language/English Interpreting major with a minor in Psychology. Why did you choose WOU? I chose to attend Western because of the ASL/English Interpreting major and leadership opportunities. I knew that I would gain a great […]
A Message from President Fuller About Spring Term - Dear campus community, In our continued effort to keep you updated on the university’s plans for course delivery, we are sharing that spring term courses will also be delivered mainly remotely in a manner similar to fall and winter terms. We had hoped to be able to offer more in-person classes for spring, but the COVID-19 metrics […]
Choir Changes Due to COVID-19 - COVID-19 has, unfortunately, affected the way many of us go about our daily lives. From the switch to online distance learning to the avoidance of social gatherings, the pandemic has changed the world. However, one thing the pandemic has been unable to change is the indomitable spirit of WOU. WOU faculty, staff, and students are […]
Get Moving! How to Safely Exercise During Winter Term - With the dreary weather and online classes of winter term, it can be easy to forgo exercise, fresh air, and moving around. However, WOU has some phenomenal resources available for students, including Campus Recreation. Here’s some information regarding the HWC, fitness classes, and how to get moving on your own. While the HWC’s facilities are […]
2021 MLK Celebration Week - On January 18, WOU will kick off its 14th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration week, packed with panels and activities. This year, our celebration is inspired by Dr. King’s speech at the Southern Methodist University on March 17th, 1966. As he stated then, “We have come a long, long way but we still […]
WOU Students and Employees Doing COVID-19 Outreach - The WOU Community Health + Polk County COVID-19 Project members were busy in December. They participated in several outreach activities to promote COVID-19 prevention and health and wellbeing for families in Polk County. They supported COVID-19 testing events at the Polk County Fair Grounds and packed 800 family COVID-19 thrive kits that were delivered […]
Western Oregon University Has The Oldest Building Among Oregon’s Public Universities - Campbell Hall stands squarely in the center of Western Oregon University’s campus. It’s endured a fierce storm, economic downturns, overcrowding and more. It stands as a symbol of the commitment of pioneers past and present to provide a high-quality education for students. Timeline: The university’s second president, Thomas Franklin Campbell raised the funds for the […]
Wolfie Emoji Now Available - Are you looking for a way to add a bit more WOU spirit to your social media and texting? We have a brand new set of Wolfie emoji for you! You can download the emoji as images or GIFs to add to your texts and more. They’re also available for use on Instagram stories. Just […]
Spanish Degrees and Certificates Open Up Career Options - Western Oregon University’s Spanish Department has three new certificates to help WOU students gain a competitive edge in the job market. The certificates are in Spanish-English Interpretation and Translation, Bilingual/Biliteracy and Social Justice and Service Learning (Bilingual). In addition to these certificate program’s, students can major in Spanish or Spanish Education, and minor in Spanish, […]
New Criminal Justice Major in 2021: Cybersecurity - Beginning fall term 2021, WOU’s Criminal Justice Sciences Division will have a new major, a Bachelor of Science in Cybercrime Investigation and Enforcement, also known as Cybersecurity. The major will require 72 total credits, which are broken down into four main groups: criminal justice, cybercrime investigation and enforcement, information systems, and electives. The mission of this […]
Prospective Students: What To Do Over Winter Break - Winter break is a great time to get work done on college applications, scholarship essays, and other college related things on your to-do list. Prospective students can take advantage of this time to get ready to head to WOU in an upcoming term. Here are some things to consider completing during the break. Apply […]
Finding and Applying for On-Campus Jobs - [Co-written by Cheyan Swan and Erin Worley] WOU offers many opportunities for student employment on-campus within a variety of different organizations. There are a multitude of options even during quarantine, as many departments have temporarily moved online. Whatever your qualifications and preferences are, there’s sure to be a job for you. Here’s some helpful […]
WOU Students Brighten Residents’ Days at Emerald Pointe Senior Living Community - WOU students are dedicated to making a difference in their communities. This summer, as part of a community service project, four students committed to brightening the days of residents of Emerald Pointe Senior Living Community in Keizer. The four students, Hannah Childress, Derek Holdsworth, Keyna Hurd, and Sheyenne White, sent letters and flowers to the residents, […]
Anderson’s Message: “What You Tolerate, You Encourage” - Story by Blake Timm, Great Northwest Athletic Conference MONMOUTH, Ore. – On that morning in early June, Curtis Anderson couldn’t contain his emotions. Anderson called his mother and just started yelling. Normally an even-tempered person, the emotions that morning were raw and racing. Like water through a breached dam, he couldn’t hold back. “I was so angry […]
How to Stay Motivated as the Days Get Darker - With the fall time change, the sun sets considerably earlier, and we have lost a lot of daytime brightness. Unfortunately, as we head into winter, the days will only get shorter, and these dark, gloomy skies will stick around. For a lot of students, this darkness can lead them to feel unmotivated, unproductive, and unenthusiastic. […]
Alfred P. Maurice Online Art Sale - This is a companion piece to “Art for Innovation.” The Alfred P. Maurice Art Sale is conducted by Western Oregon University in honor of the late Alfred Maurice, an avid art collector, an artist in his own right, and a friend and benefactor to our campus community. Since 2011, WOU students have participated […]
Headed Home? How to Safely Travel This Week - After Thanksgiving, all in-person WOU classes will be changed to an online format. Because of this, many students may be traveling home this week, for both Thanksgiving and winter break. Obviously, the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected this year’s traveling plans, especially now, around the holidays. Here are some things to know if you must […]
WOU’s 53rd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Goes Virtual - A WOU tradition goes virtual! WOU’s 53rd annual Holiday Tree Lighting will be live broadcast this year on Friday, Nov. 20, at 6 p.m. Festivities include remarks from mayors of both Monmouth and Independence, words from WOU President Rex Fuller, an essay read by a winning local elementary student, and appearances by Santa and Mrs. […]
Western Oregon University board approves revised FY21 budget - The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees on Wednesday approved the adjusted fiscal year 2021 budget, which required an update based on actual enrollment numbers for fall 2020. The previous FY21 budget, initially adopted at the board’s June meeting, had been based on a projected enrollment decrease of 2.5%. However, because of the COVID-19 […]
New Faculty Q&A: Leanne Cusack - Dr. Leanne Cusack is a new WOU Health and Exercise Science assistant professor. She’s attended University of Waterloo (Canada) and Oregon State University, and she’s been teaching at a university level for about 10 years. This term, she is teaching Epidemiology and Infectious Disease/Injury Prevention. Cuasack’s office can be found at RWEC 237. Why […]
GNAC Announces Plans For 2021 Basketball Season - Originally posted on WOUwolves.com. The Great Northwest Athletic Conference announced Friday that it plans to move forward with modified conference-only men’s and women’s basketball schedules beginning in January. Four teams – Alaska Fairbanks, Northwest Nazarene, Saint Martin’s and Seattle Pacific – have indicated that they will participate in the 2021 season. Six institutions have decided […]
New Faculty Q & A: Mary Layne Harrell, Assistant Professor of Chemistry - As part of our ongoing new faculty feature series, we spoke with Mary Layne Harrell, Assistant Professor of Chemistry. We asked Harrell about fall term classes, adventures outside of WOU, and the joys of chemistry. Why did you choose WOU? When I interviewed, I got the sense that the school cares a lot about teaching […]
New Faculty Q&A: Yuliana Kenfield - Dr. Yuliana Kenfield is a new WOU Education and Leadership assistant professor, who is teaching two classes this term: ED 446 Environments for Diverse Learners and ED 352 Social Studies Teaching Methods. She has attended Universidad Nacional San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Universidad Antonio de Nebrija, and University of New Mexico, and she has been […]
Upcoming Fall 2020 Admissions Events - For the latest schedule of Admissions events, visit their website. Although the 2020-21 school year looks a little different than those of the past, prospective WOU students and their parents can still attend a plethora of great events hosted by WOU’s Admissions Office. All events will be held virtually over Zoom, and registration is required […]
5 Ways to Celebrate Halloween Virtually - Everything looks different this academic year, including the holidays. If you’re a huge Halloween fan such as myself, you may be lost on how to celebrate safely. Luckily, through WOU and some outside sources, having a fun, virtual Halloween is possible! Our first option is for students currently living in the residence halls: Res […]
New Faculty Q&A: Lin Wu - Dr. Lin Wu is a new assistant professor for the Education and Leadership department. Wu has spent seven years teaching in K-12 and four years teaching in higher education. Wu graduated from the University of Washington and is currently instructing two classes at WOU: ED 418 Assessment, Planning, and Instruction; as well as ED 623 […]
Admissions Application Fee Waived for Freshmen and Transfer Students - Applying to Western Oregon University is now easier than ever with new admissions policy changes. There is no application fee for freshman and transfer students until Sept. 1, 2021. Also, high school seniors and transfer students can self-report their cumulative grade point average when completing their admissions application. “Western Oregon University recognizes that students […]
New Faculty Q & A: Jay Schwartz - This is the first in a series featuring new WOU faculty members. We spoke with Jay Schwartz, assistant professor of psychological science. We asked him about his road to WOU, information about the classes he’s teaching this term, and what he likes to do when he’s not working. Check out his answers below. Why did […]
WOU President Rex Fuller Announces Retirement Plans - Western Oregon University (WOU) President Rex Fuller has announced his retirement, effective at the end of his current four-year contract on Sept. 30, 2021. A national search will be conducted for WOU’s next president, and details about that process will be announced once they are finalized. “It has been an honor and a privilege […]
WOU Welcomes New Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, Dr. Hillary Fouts - This summer, WOU welcomed a new dean of graduate studies and research, Dr. Hillary Fouts. As the new dean, she oversees the Sponsored Projects office, research centers and grant work, as well as Graduate Studies. Prior to joining WOU, Fouts worked at the University of Tennessee as a professor in the Department of Child and […]
Live Q&A Summary: Oct. 1 - This is a summary of our Oct. 1, 2020 live Q&A session. We host these live Q&A’s for current students, incoming students and family members on WOU’s Instagram and Facebook accounts every Thursday at 10 a.m. The next session is Thursday, Oct. 8. How soon will a decision be made on winter term being online? Will it affect […]
WOU’s Rian Gayle Strives to Increase Accessibility at Black Lives Matter Protests - Rian Gayle, who serves as the assistant director of access and inclusion in WOU’s Office of Disability Services, has been involved with the Black Lives Matter protests across Oregon. Gayle, who is originally from Jamaica and is Deaf, has both presented and served as an interpreter at the protests, and has been an advocate for […]
A Letter from ASWOU President N.J. Johnson to Students - Hello, My name is N.J. Johnson, and I have been working as your student body president since I was inaugurated in June. I wanted to reach out in case you were still on the fence about registering for classes in fall 2020. Last spring, our entire campus had to unexpectedly shift the way we do […]
Creating a Schedule (and Sticking to It!) - As you now know, WOU will be conducting classes 95% online for the upcoming fall term. Some creative arts classes and lab portions of some courses will be meeting in person, with appropriate physical distancing and safety measures in place. What this means is that, for the majority of students, fall term will be entirely […]
Alumni Profile: Jordawn Jones - As part of our ongoing alumni feature series, we spoke with 2014 graduate, Jordawn Jones, who majored in Exercise Science with a minor in Human Biology. Jones is now working as the Head Athletic Trainer and adjunct faculty at Sierra Nevada University. Why did you choose WOU? I planned to attend WOU to play basketball […]
WOU Alumnus Police Lieutenant Shines in TikTok Videos - Sitting at a table, Western Oregon University alumnus Albany Police Lt. Curtis Hyde ’93 is reviewing paperwork when a colleague walks up to him and then uses a Clorox wipe to clean his bald head. Hyde gives his colleague a quizzical glance while another colleague stifles his laughter. Hyde and his two colleagues joined others […]
Alumni Profile: Casey Brown - As part of a new feature series, we are catching up with WOU alumni to see where life has led them after graduation. Next up is Casey Brown ’20, from Independence, Oregon. Since graduation, Casey has been working as a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual, and as a supervisor at Little Caesars on the weekends. […]
Alumni Profile: Curtis Holbert - Curtis Holbert graduated from WOU in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in History and a minor in Writing. Holbert is from Burns, Oregon, but currently works as a Title Examiner in Redmond, Oregon. What is your current position? Title Examiner. I research deed records, as well as other public record items to issue reports […]
Western Oregon University Announces Nearly all Fall Courses to be Online - Western Oregon University President Rex Fuller announced today that in an effort to “Embrace the Now” about 95% of fall courses will be delivered online at both the Monmouth campus and WOU:Salem. Previously, the university had planned a mix of in-person, hybrid and online offerings. “We’ve seen in the news that universities that have opened […]
Five Reasons to Enroll This Fall - Enrollment requires important decisions for every student–which courses to pursue, how to shape your schedule, and how many credits per term is right for you. As students, we have to be particularly thoughtful about enrollment this upcoming school year. COVID-19 has swept the world, and Oregon, in turn, causing changes to our academic environment, workplace […]
#MaskUp to Help Keep Our Community Safe - Please join us and #MaskUp to help keep our community safe during the pandemic. This public service announcement is courtesy of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. 
Alumni Profile: Francisco Aranda - Francisco Aranda graduated from WOU in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in Business and a minor in Spanish. In 2015, Aranda graduated from WOU with a master’s degree in Management and Information Systems, and now works as a product analyst at Nike. Why did you choose WOU? In my sophomore year of high school, […]
Live Q&A Summary: July 30 - This is a summary of our July 30, 2020 live Q&A session. We host these live Q&A’s for current students, incoming students and family members on WOU’s Instagram and Facebook accounts every other Thursday at 10 a.m. The next session is Thursday, Aug. 13. Will there be classes this fall? Absolutely! Our class schedule shows the delivery method […]
Two WOU Ensembles Named Finalists for Prestigious Awards - The above photograph is of Western Oregon University Chamber Singers. Western Oregon University is home to many talented musicians. With 14 different ensembles, WOU is bursting with musical performers from many different backgrounds, all showcasing their unique talents. Recently, two of these ensembles were awarded as finalists in prestigious categories: Western Oregon University Chamber Singers […]
Prospective Students: Check Out WOU’s Campus - One of the best things about visiting WOU is getting to see the beautiful campus in different seasons. In fall, the leaves start to change and drape the streets in rich orange, gold, and brown tones. In winter, if we’re lucky, the streets will get a dusting of snow, blanketing the roofs of WOU’s buildings, […]
Alumni Profile: Karen Edwards - As part of our ongoing alumni profile series, we spoke with Karen Edwards, ‘16, an Interdisciplinary Studies grad who specialized in Early Childhood Studies and Communication Studies. At WOU, Edwards participated in multiple extracurriculars, including student government, on-campus jobs, and leadership activities. She mentioned that when she was not in class, she would attend various […]
Alumni Profile: Kelsee Coito - Kelsee Coito graduated from WOU in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in Business. Coito is originally from Mililani, Hawaii, but currently lives in Las Vegas, Nevada, working as a Marketing Ambassador for Topgolf. Why did you choose WOU? I originally chose WOU for the cheerleading program. What advice do you have for future […]
Live Q&A Summary: July 16 - This is a summary of our July 16, 2020 live Q&A session. We host these live Q&A’s for current students, incoming students and family members on WOU’s Instagram and Facebook accounts every other Thursday at 10 a.m. The next session is Thursday, July 30. When will the next announcement be regarding whether or not WOU is continuing […]
Western Oregon University’s Swindel Hall - As the oldest public university in Oregon, Western Oregon University has 164 years of history. Knowing the university’s past can illuminate where it’s moving toward for its future. Here’s a look at a building that is often asked about – Swindel Hall. Often referred to as the building that looks like a barn near the […]
Alumni Profile: Tiffany Hendrix Blackmon - As a continuation of our alumni profile series, we are featuring Tiffany Hendrix Blackmon, ’10, a psychology graduate from Portland, Oregon. We spoke with Hendrix Blackmon about her experiences at WOU, her journey through law school and into her law career, and what advice she has for her fellow Wolves. Check out her answers below. […]
WOU Women’s Soccer Adds Assistant Coach - By the Polk County Itemizer-Observer MONMOUTH — Western Oregon University’s women’s soccer team will import an assistant coach from the University of Oregon for the new season this fall. Maryn Beutler, most recently a University of Oregon graduate assistant coach, will join the Wolves. Head coach Kacey Bingham said she’s eager to have Beutler to […]
Hailey Verhaalen: Someday When This Is Over - By Bren Swogger at Vortex Oregon native Hailey Verhaalen has seen a lot change in the past year. A singer-songwriter from Oregon City and graduate of Western Oregon University, Verhaalen made her way to Nashville in 2016 to pursue her dreams in country music. Since then, she’s spent the years avidly pursuing her passions, writing three songs […]
Mike Krantz is Next Bend Chief of Police - By MyCentralOregon.com The City of Bend has selected Portland Police Bureau Assistant Chief Michael Krantz as Bend’s next Police Chief. Krantz will serve the 115-year-old Bend Police Department in the position previously held by Chief Jim Porter, who retires today. He will begin his service in Bend on August 10, 2020. “Mike has a reputation for being […]
Local Driver-Ed Teacher Honored - By Kristen Wohlers at the Molalla Pioneer Molalla resident and driver-education teacher Timothy Beckham was selected by his peers as a national winner of the Teacher of Excellence award. Beckham, vice president of the Oregon Driver Education Center and a driving instructor at Western Oregon University, is one of five driver-education teachers from throughout the […]
Live Q&A Summary: July 2 - WOU has been hosting weekly live Q&A sessions for current and incoming students on our Instagram and Facebook accounts every Thursday at 10 a.m. since March. For summer, we’ve shifting to every other week and will be posting summaries of common questions during our off weeks. These questions are from the Q&A session on July 2, 2020. Are students […]
History Of Western Oregon University’s Bell - Ever wonder about the history of the bell at Western Oregon University’s Werner University Center? Here are six fun facts: In 1886, the bell was cast in Cincinnati, Ohio and placed in the Campbell Hall belfry. The bell was rung to indicate the time of day along with being an emergency alert system, and announcing […]
Two WOU Business Owners Use Creativity To Create Community During Pandemic - Two Western Oregon University alumni business owners have found there’s a solution to every problem, even one that seems like it is taking them on a wild, stop-and-go roller coaster ride. The COVID-19 pandemic has altered how Dawson Officer ’06 of 4 Spirits Distillery in Corvallis and Angela Anderson ‘99 of Syndicate Wine Bar in […]
Rick Bartow Artwork in Online Show - By the Newport News Times The creative work of Rick Bartow (1946-2016) — one of Oregon’s most well-known artists — is now included in the Oregon Coast Online Art Show, presented by the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts and the Newport Visual Arts Center. Bartow’s limited-edition lithograph, “Segyp, Kos Ket Saw Temp,” can be […]
WOU Adds New Programs and Certificates To Meet Career Demands - Western Oregon University added six new programs and nine certificates in the last academic year that will prepare students for careers in growing job markets or to advance their careers. WOU Biology Professor and outgoing Faculty Senate President Kristin Latham-Scott said adding a new curriculum takes into consideration the changing demographics, interests and needs of […]
Grad Profile: Jennifer Romadka - Jennifer Romadka is a graduating Public Policy and Administration student from Beaverton. During her time at WOU, Jennifer has participated in the Honors Program and multiple student leadership positions. What has your experience been like as an Honors Program student? My experience in honors has pushed me academically, personally, and professionally in all the ways […]
Grad Profile: Jose Raul Magana Mendoza - Jose Raul Magana Mendoza is an Early Childhood/Elementary Education major with a minor in English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). He is from Salem. As an outstanding 2020 graduate, we interviewed Magana about his most notable experiences from WOU, as well as his future plans. What has your experience been like as a […]
Grad Profile: Blanca Miranda-Aguilar - Blanca Miranda-Aguilar is an Interdisciplinary Studies major from Arroyo Grande, Calif. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed her on college memories and lessons learned. What has your experience been like as a first-generation student? Yes, I am a first-generation student. I was lucky enough to find and get the help of the Multicultural Student […]
Grad Profile: Kelsie Greenhill - Kelsie Greenhill is a Public Policy and Administration major with a minor in Spanish. She is from Willamina, Ore. As a notable 2020 graduate, we interviewed Greenhill on her favorite aspects of WOU and fond memories from college. What has the experience been like as a transfer student? I transferred from Chemeketa Community College. […]
WOU athletes still pursuing Olympic dreams - By Jennifer Biberston at the Polk County Itemizer-Observer MONMOUTH — Derek Holdsworth looks at the postponement of the Olympic track and field trials as another chance to get better. Originally the trials, which Holdsworth hopes to qualify for in the 800-meters, were set for late June of this year, but have been delayed until June […]
Grad Profile: Taylor Dowler - Taylor Dowler is a graduating Political Science student from Portland. She transferred to WOU from Mount Hood Community College, and has actively been involved with numerous extracurricular activities on campus, including Model United Nations and ASWOU. What has your experience as a transfer student been like? I originally obtained my Associates Degree from Mount Hood […]
Grad Profile: Kayli Smith - Kayli Smith is an art major with a concentration in ceramics, as well as a minor in art history. Her hometown is Dallas, Ore. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Smith about her experience at WOU and her future plans. Why did you choose WOU? Ceramics has always been a class that I felt […]
Grad Profile: Ayanna Arceneaux - Ayanna Arceneaux is a Political Science major with a minor in Health. She is from Puyallup, Wash. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Arceneaux on her favorite memories from WOU and the lessons she wants to pass on to incoming students. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU not just for softball, but […]
Grad Profile: Kranti Budhathoki - Kranti Budhathoki is a graduating student from Kathmandu, Nepal. He is completing a degree in Business, and has been involved with many campus activities, including PLUS team, Associated Students of Western Oregon University, and working for WOU’s Strategic Communications and Marketing. What has your experience been like as an international student? I loved being here […]
Grad Profile: Emily Swart - Emily Swart is an Interdisciplinary Studies major from Salem, Ore., the two focuses of her major being humanities and social science. As an outstanding non-traditional graduate, we interviewed Swart on her most memorable experiences here, as well as her takeaways from college as a whole. Why did you choose WOU? I come from a […]
Grad Profile: Leah Coyle - Leah Coyle is a Communication Studies major from Portland, Ore., who has also completed a minor in Humanities. As an outstanding graduate, we interviewed her on her WOU experience, including her favorite memories and the lessons she’s learned. Are you a first-generation student? What has your experience been like? I am the first member […]
Grad Profile: Jonny Watt - Jonathon “Jonny” Watt is an Elementary/Middle School Education major with a concentration in Middle School Mathematics. He is a Kansas City, Kansas. As an outstanding 2020 graduate, we interviewed Watt on his favorite aspects of WOU and his future plans for after graduation. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I was […]
Lefties’ Alum Mechals Drafted by White Sox in Fourth Round - By Pierre LaBossiere at the Peninsula Daily News PORTLAND, Ore. — Kade Mechals, who pitched for the Port Angeles Lefties in 2018, was selected by the Chicago White Sox in the fourth round of the Major League Baseball draft. Mechals, a McMinnville, Ore., high school graduate, has pitched for Skagit Valley College and Western Oregon University […]
Grad Profile: Kelly Soto - Kelly Soto is a graduating nursing student from Ontario, California. She transferred to WOU from Chemeketa Community College, where she completed her nursing prerequisites and obtained her Associate Arts of Oregon Transfer degree. As an outstanding WOU 2020 graduate, we interviewed Soto about her college experience and future plans. What has your experience been […]
2020 Delmer Dewey/Julia McCulloch Smith Award: D-Dré Wright - D-Dré Wright ’20 has a penchant for acronyms, especially one that inspired and guided her success at Western Oregon University. Wright recalls arranging three words in her mind when she finally decided she was going to ACE everything in her life – Accept, Change and/or Embrace it. From competing on three intramural athletic teams to […]
2020 Delmer Dewey/Julia McCulloch Smith Award: Monica Cerda Ortiz - As a first-generation and low-income student, Monica Cerda Ortiz ’20 started her freshman year of college feeling powerless and not knowing where she belonged. That quickly changed as she learned the importance of finding campus groups where she felt represented and supported at Western Oregon University. She is grateful for the WOU faculty, staff, students […]
Outstanding Graduate Student: Joshua Hodney - Surrounding himself with amazing people provided Outstanding Graduate Student Joshua Hodney ’20 the additional strength he needed to earn his Master of Arts in Teaching. “I am confident in my desire and effort to work hard at everything I do, but I know I would not be where I am without such a powerful support […]
OHSU Golden Lamp Award: Paige McBride - There were moments when Paige McBride ‘20 never imagined she would be able to attend college, let alone receive a degree. Today, the recipient of the OHSU Golden Lamp Award is extremely proud to join the nursing profession as she graduates from the Oregon Health & Science University School of Nursing, Monmouth Campus. “Before starting […]
Grad Profile: Gabriela Acevedo-Solis - Gabriela Acevedo-Solis is a graduating student, who will be receiving a degree in Middle/High School Social Science Education student with a minor in Spanish. She is from Independence, and has been involved in numerous extracurriculars during her time at WOU, including the Multicultural Student Union, Student Engagement, and multiple volunteer organizations. How has being […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship Recipient: Kenneth Carano - Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship winner Associate Professor Kenneth Carano aspires to use his knowledge and status to listen and learn from others’ voices. “Using my white male privilege to be a co-conspirator in working towards giving less-privileged voices a chance to be heard is a critical part of my field’s […]
Grad Profile: Erin Ritchie - Graduating student Erin Ritchie will be completing a degree in Sociology this spring, with a minor in Psychology. Originally from Newport, she transferred to WOU from Linn-Benton Community College, and has been involved with CIP, Abby’s House, and Student Success and Advising during her time at WOU. Where did you transfer from and what […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching: Kristin Latham-Scott - Western Oregon University Biology Professor Kristin Latham-Scott hopes she engages her students with mind-expanding topics while also providing them the skills to tackle the challenges. Her dedication, creativity and enthusiasm to create student-centered learning spaces has earned Latham-Scott this year’s Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching. “I hope my students take with them […]
Grad Profile: Karina Lopez - Karina Lopez is a Communication Studies major and a Health minor from Independence. As an outstanding 2020 graduate, we interviewed Lopez about her experiences being a first generation student and a leader to her peers in our campus community. What has your experience as a first-generation student been like? My experience as a first-generation […]
‘It’s My Passion’: WOU’s Isaiah Edwards Pursuing Pro Dunking Dream - By Marcus Greaves at KOIN PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Isaiah Edwards is a basketball player through and through and has every intangible you would want a player to have. He has handles, a smooth jump shot and a drive to get better. But he’s chosen not to play anymore and focus on a different and […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Service: Cindy Ryan - Dr. Cindy Ryan encourages her students in the Early Childhood Studies programs to be social justice warriors. “I tell them I really believe they can do great things, whether it’s causing ripples in ponds or waves in oceans,” Ryan said. “Everyone has the ability to change the world somehow.” Known for believing teaching and service […]
Grad Profile: Zoe Noel Cawthon - Zoe Noel Cawthon is a philosophy major from Salem. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Cawthon on her most notable memories and life lessons from WOU. What has been your most memorable class? My most memorable class was Forensic Anthropology with Jerielle Cartales! It has nothing to do with my major, and I took […]
Eleven Ideas to Celebrate your Graduation from Western Oregon University - Although COVID-19 has changed many traditions and ways of life, it hasn’t hampered people’s ingenuity. There are plenty of safe ways to celebrate your Western Oregon University graduation on June 13. Keep in mind the current state of Oregon guidelines limits no more than 25 people at a gathering. Attendees must stay at least 6 […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Staff Excellence Award: Susan Griffin - Susan Griffin does not consider her work as the academic program coordinator and adviser in the Student Success and Advising Office to be a job. Instead, she views it as a gift to be able to work beside the brave, hardworking students and colleagues at Western Oregon University. Known for her dedication and unwavering support […]
Grad Profile: Danel Camacho - Danel Camacho is a Community Health Education major and a Human Biology minor from Roseville, Calif. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Camacho about her experience being a transfer student, as well as her fondest memories from being a student-athlete and interacting with our WOU community as a whole. Are you a transfer student? […]
Alumni Award of Excellence: Micheal Morgan - Dr. Micheal Morgan ’70 has a simple explanation for why he goes above and beyond in everything he does. “It’s innate,” he said. “I was raised to work hard, do a good job, help others and do what’s right.” The recipient of the 2020 Alumni Award of Excellence, Morgan has been a staunch supporter of […]
Grad Profile: Melissa Long - Melissa Long is a Secondary English Language Arts Education major from Bend, Ore. As an outstanding 2020 graduate, we interviewed Long on the lessons she learned during college and her favorite memories from WOU. Where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? I transferred to WOU from Chemeketa Community College […]
Grad Profile: April Bradley - April Bradley is a graduating student from Aumsville, Ore., and she is completing a degree in Information Systems. While at WOU, Bradley has served as the family housing apartment manager for Alderview. Are you a transfer student? If so, where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? Yes, however I […]
Grad Profile: Max Kilby - Max Kilby is a Psychology major and a Forensic Psychology minor from Chino Hills, Calif. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Kilby on his favorite aspects of WOU and his memorable experiences from here. What has been your favorite annual event at WOU? The Holiday Tree Lighting has always been one of my favorite […]
Grad Profile: Kaela Wehrman - Kaela Wehrman is a Secondary Education Language Arts major from Albany, Ore. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Wehrman on her most memorable communities and moments from WOU. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because from the first moment I stepped on campus to tour, I could feel the sense of a […]
Grad Profile: Arianna Stone - Arianna Stone is a Psychology major with a minor in Social Science. She is from Salem, Ore, and originally earned her Associates of Arts Oregon Transfer degree from Chemeketa Community College before transferring to WOU. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Stone about her impact on multiple WOU communities, her fondest memories, and her future […]
Grad Profile: Susiele Koga Truong - Susiele Koga Truong is a first-generation graduating student from Wailuku, Maui. She is a Community Health Education major, with a minor in Human Biology. Are you a first-generation student? What has your experience been like? Yes, I’m a first-generation student and my experience through college has been eye opening and not only an experience […]
Law Enforcement Provides WOU Alumnus an Opportunity to Serve - Western Oregon University alumnus Michael Fort ’96 has delivered pizza, driven trucks, waited tables, worked on a farm, served in the Marine Corps and dazzled the airwaves as a DJ. A 1981 graduate of Texas’ Shiner High School, Fort realized odd jobs without a college degree severely limited his potential for success. He knew he […]
Grad Profile: Salvador Garcia Lopez - Salvador Garcia Lopez is an Earth Science major with a minor in Biology. He is from Portland, Ore. As a 2020 graduate, we interviewed Lopez on his favorite experiences from WOU and his plans for after graduation. Where did you transfer from and what has the experience been like? In the fall of 2017, […]
McIntyre learns life lessons through baseball - By Jennifer Biberston at the Polk County Itemizer-Observer MONMOUTH — To Josh McIntyre, baseball is an indicator of life. “Baseball, it’s not always a fair game,” he said. “You could have one plan in place going into the game, but you might have to adapt to what the other team is doing or how the […]
Grad Profile: Natalie Legras - Natalie Legras is a graduating student who is completing a double major in Information Systems and Humanities, with a minor in Business. She is from Scio, Ore., and has participated in the Honors program while at WOU. Are you a first-generation student? What has your experience been like? Neither of my parents graduated from […]
Grad Profile: Zoe Chan-Tuyub - Zoe Chan-Tuyub is a graduating Business student from Sherwood, Ore. Throughout her time at WOU, Chan-Tuyub has participated in many extracurriculars, including PLUS Team, Kappa Delta Chi sorority, and Alternative Break. Are you a first-generation student? What has your experience been like? My experience as a first-generation student has been amazing. Since I started […]
Grad Profile: Faith Van Putten - Faith Van Putten is a graduating Early Childhood Studies student, with a minor in English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). She is from Sacramento, California, and has participated in Peer Mentors, D.R.E.A.M., and Family Building Blocks while at WOU. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because of the small class sizes, their […]
WOU Alumna Finds Herself in the Spotlight - Western Oregon University alumna Colleen Thayer’s new high-profile assignments have placed her in a spotlight that’s slightly outside of her comfort zone. Even so, she gladly accepts the challenge, because she believes it’s important to provide accurate information to the deaf community during this unprecedented moment in history. A Certified Deaf Interpreter, Thayer has been […]
WOU Assistant Professor Defends the Shepherd of the Ecosystem - Western Oregon University Biology Instructor John Laundré advocates for an animal too often viewed as bloodthirsty and dangerous. A world-class ecologist, Laundré is a cougar biologist who is devoted to defending an animal he believes is misunderstood. “Cougars are the shepherds of ecosystems, keeping herbivores in their ecological place. Time after time, it has been […]
A Celebration of Academic Excellence - Western Oregon University student Sandra Cerda-Lezama ’20 sought to understand what causes parent-child conflict. Graduate student Leslie McLane designed a lesson plan to equip high school students with the mental tools for effectively processing cognitive dissonance in school settings and throughout their lives. Although their projects differ, both McLane and Cerda-Lezama are excited to participate […]
Grad Profile: Eva Batenhorst - Eva Batenhorst will be graduating this spring, with a double major in Biology and Dance, and a minor in Physical Science. Eva is from Eugene, Oregon, and has participated in many extracurriculars during her time at WOU, including the Honors program, RHA, and PLUS team. Are you an honors student? What has your experience been […]
Grad Profile: Jon Montero - Jon Montero is a graduating student from Seattle, Wash., who is completing a degree in Exercise Science. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I was excited about the hands-on experience you receive when taking the courses. In the first year you practice teaching to your peers and in the second year you […]
T.H. Gentle Professor of Education for 2021 - When she was a middle and high school teacher in rural China, Western Oregon University Associate Professor Xiaopeng Gong observed many of her students struggled with various social and emotional challenges. “As a teacher, there were so many questions that I wanted to find an answer to but did not have a means to do […]
Grad Profile: Megan McAllister - Megan McAllister will be graduating with a degree in Business. McAllister is from Klamath Falls, Ore., and has participated in the Alpha Chi Omega sorority, as well as the Student Veterans of America club. Are you a transfer student? What has the experience been like? Yes, I transferred from Klamath Community College as a junior. […]
Grad Profile: Maddie Hannah - Maddie Hannah will be graduating from WOU’s Master of Arts in Teaching program. Originally from Rome, Georgia, she graduated from WOU with a major in Humanities and a minor in Linguistics, and has worked as a graduate assistant for the Writing Center. Are you a transfer student? What has the experience been like? I transferred […]
Grad Profile: Heidi Benham - Heidi Benham is a graduating student from Dayton, Ore. She is completing a degree in Mathematics, with a minor in Linguistics. After graduation, Heidi is headed to the University of Connecticut. Are you a transfer student? What has the experience been like? I transferred from the Yamhill Valley Campus of Chemeketa Community College. The faculty […]
Grad Profile: Kailee Goodrich - Kailee is graduating with degrees in both American Sign Language (ASL) Studies and ASL/English Interpretation Major, and she has also earned a minor in health. She is from Livermore, California, where she attended Las Positas Community College and completed her Associate in Arts degree before transferring to WOU. As an outstanding student and member of […]
Grad Profile: Sean Tellvik - Sean Tellvik is a graduating English major, with a concentration in Writing and a minor in Humanities. He is from Hillsboro, Ore., and has served an active part of our community through clubs, sub-communities, and working as a tutor at the Writing Center. We interviewed him on his most notable experiences from his years here […]
Grad Profile: Camryn Skari - Camryn Skari will be graduating with a Masters in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling this June. In addition to being a graduate student, Camryn has worked with the WOU Foundation Phonathon team for the past three years, and has been the lead caller for two years. What has it been like working for the […]
Grad Profile: Adrian Luis Manriquez - Adrian Luis Manriquez is a graduating Psychology student from Keizer. After graduation, Manriquez is headed to Portland State University to complete a Ph.D. program. What has been your most memorable class? That is a very hard question. So many classes shaped my outlook on life and grew me. I would have to say Social Psychology, […]
Late WOU Professor Recognized for ‘Historic’ Contributions to the Field of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities - The American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities announced in early April that it was honoring the late College of Education Professor Hank Bersani in its National Historic Recognition Project 2000-2020. Bersani, a professor of special education who passed in 2012, was named a National Honoree in the project, which seeks to recognize the key […]
Western Oregon University Professor and Advisor Receives International Recognition - Western Oregon University Assistant Professor and Advisor Brooke Dolenc Nott’s compassionate and thoughtful approach to empower students has earned her international recognition. Nott is the recipient of the 2020 Outstanding New Advisor in the Faculty Advising category from the NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising, an organization with more than 14,000 international members promoting and supporting […]
WOU Professor Receives International Recognition - Western Oregon University Assistant Professor and Advisor Brooke Dolenc Nott believes her responsibilities extend beyond assisting students in navigating their college journey and career aspirations. “I want my students to know that I believe in them and that their skills, their specific path, their story is going to fulfill a need in our communities,” she said. […]
Strong and Pretty – WOU Alum Competes in Strongman Competitions - Picking up logs with his bare hands, carrying a grand piano on his back, lifting a 40,000-pound monster truck and starring in “The Strongest Man in History” are a few of Robert Oberst’s accomplishments. A Western Oregon University alum, Oberst ’11 is a professional American strongman who has competed in the World’s Strongest Man competitions, […]
Howl from Home to support WOU students - Josh Salsbury ’20 has been frequently asked “How many of those do you have?” by customers at Western Oregon University’s Food Pantry. If you think people are asking to see if they can have more of an item, Salsbury said it’s the opposite. Even as the demand for the services have increased, he has seen […]
WOU Department Feature: Disability Services Office - Although the office is currently closed to in-person visits, ODS staff are still available to students during their usual hours through phone, email, and Google Hangouts. For a complete list of where/how to contact ODS, visit their website. We’re continuing our department feature series with the Disability Services Office (ODS). We talked to Assistant Director […]
Peter Sears Poetry Prize Winners Announced - To close out National Poetry Month with a celebration, winners of the 4th annual Peter Sears Poetry Prize were announced today. Congratulations to the these student winners: First Prize: To Bear Arms by Cylinda Neidenbach Second Prize: a spell for revenge by Cheyan Swan Third Prize: Flower Crowns by Katherine Sutton The poems (included below) will be […]
Abby’s House Seeks Photos of People Wearing Denim for Denim Day on April 29 - While yoga tights, sweatpants and pajama bottoms may be the trending work-at-home pandemic fashion, Dawn Warmbrand invites the Western Oregon University community to wear jeans April 29 for Denim Day, an international campaign to honor Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The violence prevention coordinator for Abby’s House at Western Oregon University, Warmbrand said Denim Day is an international event […]
WOU Professor Creates Code-Breaking Competition - An unscrupulous blackjack dealer helping a ring of hustlers. A race to discover the whereabouts of a deadly virus. A group suspected of hacking into a government website to steal U.S. Census data. The fictional plots in the Kryptos Challenge were created by Western Oregon University Math Professor Cheryl Beaver and Central Washington University Math […]
Student Health and Counseling Center Q&A - Due to Spring Term campus closures, the SHCC is not currently available for in-person visits. Students can still book appointments with doctors and counselors and conduct their meetings through phone calls. The office also offers COVID testing to students, given that students have called beforehand and meet the requirements. The SHCC’s hours remain the same. […]
Student Profile: Jose Andres Hernandes-Galvin - Jose Andres Hernandes-Galvin (who goes by Andres), is an Interdisciplinary Studies Major with a concentration in Social Studies, Humanities, and Education, as well as a minor in Chicano/Latinx studies. When first considering colleges to attend, “I originally had to choose between WOU and PSU. I got a scholarship to come to WOU, but was skeptical […]
WOU Alum Jay Bates Graduates From FBI National Academy - After earning his bachelor’s in Business Administration, Western Oregon alum Jay Bates ’93 took a job with a finance company, where he quickly learned he didn’t enjoy the corporate world. As a former WOU baseball player and high school athlete, Bates found himself missing the team atmosphere. He also remembered the advice of a WOU […]
WOU Department Feature: Cashier’s Office - As part of our department feature series, we spoke with the Cashier’s Office to better understand what the department does and how they assist the WOU community. Head Cashier Katie Rupp let us know more about the department and how they strive to meet the needs of students, staff and faculty, and the larger campus […]
Club Feature: Model UN - WOU’s Model United Nations, or Model UN, is an extracurricular activity that allows students to learn about international relations and diplomacy in a scholarly setting. The club includes “[discussions of] Model UN events, conferences, and current events. We sometimes do workshops to help learn the process and improve our speaking and writing skills.” Recently, we […]
Recent InfoTech Graduate Helps Educators Navigate Emergency Shift to Online Learning - By Anthony Rimel Kaitlin Lucas graduated from WOU’s Information Technology M.S.Ed. program in December 2019. And just a few months later she would be on the frontlines of one of the biggest moments in the history of educational technology: the unprecedented shift to online learning following the global outbreak of COVID-19. Lucas, who also earned a certificate […]
Poetry Provides Perspective for WOU students - For Western Oregon University students Katherine Sutton, Alexander O’Brien, Amber Jahn and Nova Kohnke, a poem is more than the elements used to create it such as alliteration, rhymes, rhythms or metaphors. Although they each have their own unique writing style, they all view poetry as a window for others to view their perspective of […]
Poetry, a Language of Its Own - Western Oregon University linguistics Professor David Hargreaves has noticed every known culture has a specialized language that is distinct from our everyday language. Hargreaves said this language is used in songs, folktales, stories, myths, mystic rituals, funeral laments and magic spells. “At the heart of this specialized language is the attention to language itself, rhythm, […]
WOU Alumni Class Notes - 1970s Jim Healy ‘75, ‘82, retired last July after 39 years in education as a high school teacher, counselor and administrator, most recently at Southridge High School in Beaverton. He lives in Hillsboro with his wife, Mary. Jerry Moore ’77 has retired after 43 years in law enforcement, the last 14 as chief of police […]
An Inspirational Day for Western Oregon University - Your monumental support of Western Oregon University’s 2020 Giving Day was absolutely amazing! Thanks to your belief in WOU students and programs, we all witnessed what happens when Wolves work together to make a dream become a reality. Because of you, Giving Day raised a record-breaking $140,629, exceeding the goal of $100,000 and more than […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Approves Undergrad Resident Tuition Increase of 4.55% - MONMOUTH, Ore. – The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees approved a tuition increase of 4.55%, or $8 per credit, for Oregon resident undergraduate students in the 2020-21 academic year at its meeting Wednesday. The 10 WOU students, two administrators and two faculty members who make up the Tuition and Fee Advisory Committee (TFAC) recommended […]
I Love You Emoji Began at WOU - For anyone who has texted the “I love you” handshape emoji, please thank CM Hall and Chad Ludwig. Hall, the co-project director of DeafBlind interpreting, and Ludwig, the director of RRCD, petitioned Unicode Consortium, a nonprofit that regulates the coding standards for written computer text that includes emojis to have the “I Love You” handshape […]
A Stitch of Kindness by WOU Community Members - The crooked stitches, uneven pleats and other minor imperfections almost prevented Heather Holmes from continuing to sew fabric face masks. But the co-director of Western Oregon University’s DeafBlind Interpreting National Training and Resource Center thought about her wife who has asthma, their aging parents, their friends with underlying health conditions, and their friends who are pregnant. […]
WOU Grad Encourages People to Conquer Their Challenges - Western Oregon University alum Kacey McCallister ’12 knows how quickly a person’s life can unexpectedly change, leaving no discernable path forward. When he was 6 years old, McCallister attempted to run across a divided highway and was struck by a semi-truck. He believes he was incredibly lucky to survive; the accident severed his left leg, […]
Art for Innovation - The late Alfred “Fred” Maurice’s curiosity and desire to see students succeed inspired him to establish a challenge for Western Oregon University students. A WOU benefactor and honorary faculty member (pictured below), he created the J. Dolores and Alfred P. Maurice Initiative, a challenge for undergraduates who complete a year-long project in quest for a […]
Legacy to Western Oregon University football - When he was eight years old, Blake Davis ’23 knew he wanted to follow in his great grandfather’s, great uncles’, grandfather’s and father’s footsteps to play football at Western Oregon University. Erik Davis ’99 remembers the day Blake received his offer to play at his alma mater. “I told him although he’s a Davis, he […]
Remote Learning at WOU Relies on Moodle - Western Oregon University graduate assistants Adrienne Allardt-Wong and Kerri Kunda have some helpful advice for students and faculty who are using Moodle for their remote spring term courses. Moodle is a learning management system used by WOU to deliver its remote access courses. “Just play around in Moodle for a bit, and you’ll get the […]
WOU Continues to Lead Nation in American Sign Language Education and Advocacy - Western Oregon University’s Division of Deaf Studies and Professional Studies (DDSPS) is nationally known to be consistently at the cutting edge of innovation and excellence in its academic programs. Mark Girod ’94, dean of the College of Education, attributes the programs’ success to a dedicated faculty who are committed to access, equity and inclusion for […]
A WOU Student’s Adventures in Scotland - We spoke with Miller in fall of 2019, before she returned from Scotland. WOU student Chloe Miller studied abroad at Stirling University in Stirling, Scotland during fall term. A Bend, Oregon native, she is a History major with a Dance minor, and started her junior year at WOU this fall. We had the opportunity to […]
Six Tips for Remote Learning Spring Term at WOU - As we venture into new territory of remote course delivery for spring term at Western Oregon University, students should remember one thing will never change. WOU is here for you. Now more than ever, communicating with your professors, adviser and staff is important. Whether you need to call, email or video chat, they are here […]
A Former Online Student Shares His Advice - Adrian Trujillo knows all too well the challenges of navigating remote college courses. While studying for his bachelor’s degree, he also juggled being a father to three young boys and working a full-time job. Now the bilingual academic success adviser in Western Oregon University’s Student Success and Advising (SSA) Office, Trujillo, 25, is eager to […]
Go on a Virtual Tour of WOU - With our tours temporarily suspended, we’ve filmed the daily tour (both in English and Spanish) so you can participate from the social distance of your home. We’d love to hear about your favorite part of campus and your favorite WOU fact – comment below or let us know on social media (we’re @WOUnews) on Instagram, […]
Western Oregon University recognized for serving the aging population - An assistant professor in the Gerontology program, Melissa Cannon is proud of Western Oregon University’s history of promoting age-friendly values in a variety of ways including encouraging lifelong learning and access to core institutional activities, community partnerships and intergenerational exchanges in teaching and learning. WOU’s dedication and work in this area has resulted in being […]
Lessons in the lessons: English and General Education - There are lessons within the lessons taught in biology to literature to philosophy classes at Western Oregon University. And each lesson can provide us with guidance, insight and knowledge during this uncertain time. Today at WOU asked faculty to share with students and employees some perspective from their subject matter to help us navigate our […]
Lessons in the Lessons: Music and Psychology - There are lessons within the lessons taught in biology to literature to philosophy classes at Western Oregon University. And each lesson can provide us with guidance, insight and knowledge during this uncertain time. Today at WOU asked faculty to share with students and employees some perspective from their subject matter to help us navigate our […]
Lessons in the Lessons: Business and Sociology - There are lessons within the lessons taught in biology to literature to philosophy classes at Western Oregon University. And each lesson can provide us with guidance, insight and knowledge during this uncertain time. Today at WOU asked faculty to share with students and employees some perspective from their subject matter to help us navigate our […]
Next Week at WOU (March 23 to 29) - Happy Spring Self-Isolation Break! Or Spring Couch Potato Break 2020? Whatever you want to call it, let’s all agree this is not the spring break any of us planned. However, it’s the smartest thing we can to do to protect ourselves and others from spreading the coronavirus. We can either be bitter about the way […]
5 Places to Look for Summer Jobs and Internships - With spring break quickly upon us, it might be time to start looking for summer jobs and internships. With the amount of information on the internet surrounding job hunting, it can be difficult to figure out where to start. Thankfully, there are some great resources to make the process a little bit easier (including some […]
Q&A with Campus Public Safety Director Rebecca Chiles - We had the opportunity to talk with Rebecca Chiles, director of WOU’s Campus Public Safety (CPS) department, about her role on campus and what she enjoys about working on campus. Can you describe your current position? I’m director of Campus Public Safety, which encompasses environmental and occupational health and safety, parking services and emergency management. […]
Tips to stay healthy mentally and physically - Two Western Oregon University health professionals have suggestions on how you can stay healthy both mentally and physically, especially with many people having concerns about the coronavirus (COVID-19). Craig Wimmer, assistant director of Wellness Education, and Jennifer King, a family nurse practitioner and medical services director, both work at the Student Health and Counseling Center (SHCC). […]
March 19: Update from President Rex Fuller - Dear campus community, After many conversations and deep reflection, we have decided to extend remote course delivery through the entire spring term to combat the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). We feel this is the best solution for our campus because it allows us to keep resources–including residence halls–available as well continue to provide opportunities for a high-quality […]
March 13 COVID-19 Update from President Fuller - Dear campus community, In the past 24 hours, there has been a significant development that affects our planning. Late last night, Gov. Brown announced a statewide closure of Oregon K-12 schools from March 16 through March 31. This decision affects many students, faculty and staff who have children attending Oregon schools. We continue to take a […]
Next Week at WOU (March 16 to March 22) - Looking for things to do at Western Oregon University and nearby this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. If you are hosting a campus event, be sure to add it to the calendar by visiting calendar.wou.edu and click “submit […]
3 Steps to Commencement - Are you a WOU senior anticipating commencement? Or even a junior planning ahead for that big day? Before you order your cap and gown and walk across that stage, there are a few steps to keep in mind to prepare for graduation. Firstly, you do not need to be graduating that spring term to attend […]
Next Week at WOU (March 9 to 15) - Looking for things to do at Western Oregon University this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. If you are hosting a campus event, be sure to add it to the calendar by visiting calendar.wou.edu and click “submit event.” Important […]
Western Oregon University Has Record-Breaking Giving Day - Unprecedented is how Western Oregon University Annual Giving Coordinator Emily Swart described Giving Day on March 3. “Because we have a great team of alumni, friends, students and employees who truly love WOU, we had a record-breaking day,” Swart said. “I’m grateful to everyone who helped make a difference for WOU students and the university.” […]
Women of Culture Celebration 2020 - [Co-written by Cheyan Swan and Erin Worley] This Wednesday, March 4, WOU’s Multicultural Student Union (MSU) is hosting their Women of Culture Celebration in the WUC’s Columbia Room. There is no cost to attend, but registration is necessary. Interested individuals can head to MSSP Office during their weekday hours of 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. […]
Celebrate Growing Western Oregon University on Giving Day - Question: How do you raise $100,000 in 24 hours to benefit Western Oregon University students and programs? Answer: Enlist the power of a pack of WOU alumni, friends, students and employees to participate in Giving Day today. Annual Giving Coordinator Emily Swart said Giving Day is an annual event with the goal to create a […]
Investigate Career Possibilities at Western Oregon University’s Criminal Justice Career Fair - Western Oregon University students exploring career and internship options should investigate possible leads at the Criminal Justice Career Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday in the Pacific Room at the Werner University Center. “This career fair is an opportunity for students to find where their passion might fit,” Criminal Justice Assistant Professor Jennifer […]
Bullet Journals: A Creative Way to Stay Organized - College can be an incredibly busy time in a student’s life, and that is no different for Ellen Moore, an Education Studies major from Portland, Oregon. Currently, Ellen is involved with the National Residence Hall Honorary, Ambassadors, PLUS Team, the Housing and Dining Advisory Committee, and is a student office assistant for the Vice President […]
Next Week At WOU (March 2 to 9) - Looking for things to do at Western Oregon University this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. If you are hosting a campus event, be sure to add it to the calendar by visiting calendar.wou.edu and click “submit event.” Important […]
4 Things to Do Over Spring Break - Spring Break is approaching quickly, and after the chaotic bustle of prep week and finals, we can find ourselves at a loss for how to spend this free week before jumping back into the hustle. Although Alternative Break applications are closed for this year (they close October 20th, if you would like to sign up […]
4 Ways to Save Money as a College Student - As a hard-working student, you probably want to enjoy the finer things in life, but could do without the hefty price tag. Luckily, many businesses, both big and small, offer student discounts on a variety of products and services. Here are some of the best ones. Entertainment If you’re looking for deals on entertainment, you […]
Western Oregon University Presents Urinetown, The Musical - What happens when a hero challenges a sinister government official who has imposed a fee for citizens to pee? The only way to flush out the answer is to attend the Western Oregon University Theatre department’s presentation of Urinetown, The Musical on Feb. 27-29 and March 4-7. A tale of corruption, greed, shenanigans, love and […]
Upcoming Lecture Explores the Effects of Spanish Colonization - This Thursday, February 27, the WOU community is invited to attend a lecture by Dr. Sonia Kania titled From Southwest Spain to Southwestern United States: Spanish in the Age of Exploration. Kania is an associate professor at the University of Texas at Arlington who currently serves as the chair of the Department of Modern Languages. […]
Criminal Justice: Taryn VanderPyl Q&A - Dr. VanderPyl is an assistant professor for WOU’s Criminal Justice Sciences Division. What is your research/area of focus? What classes are you currently teaching? I am proud to be a big nerd! I love research and teaching, so I could go on and on about both. I am a qualitative researcher, so I spend […]
Club Spotlight: Black Student Union - WOU’s Black Student Union (BSU) is one of several student organizations on campus focused on supporting our students and creating an inclusive space for them to thrive. On the organization’s Engage page, it mentions that “The Black Student Union exists to promote cultural awareness, political awareness, and to provide support for all the students and […]
WOU’s Business Office: What You Need to Know - WOU is comprised of many departments, all working together to ensure that students are well supported and the university continues to run smoothly. One of these departments is the university’s Business Office, located in room 101 in the Lieuallen Administration Building (next to ITC). One of the biggest misunderstandings about the Business Office is that […]
Next Week at WOU (Feb. 25 to March 1) - Looking for things to do at WOU this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. Important Notices SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE: There is still time to apply for WOU scholarships. You can apply for more than 70 scholarships with one form, due […]
New Battle Ground Police chief and WOU graduate takes oath of office - Posted by ClarkCountyToday.com Date: Saturday, February 15, 2020 Mike Fort takes over for retiring Chief Bob Richardson BATTLE GROUND — Mike Fort took his official oath of office Friday afternoon as Battle Ground’s new chief of police. Chief Fort, who has served as Battle Ground Police lieutenant the last two years, was named successor to […]
From farmworker roots to national acclaim for former Nyssa man and WOU alum | Malheur Enterprise - Yadira Lopez, Tech Register February 19, 2020 Nyssa schools and farm fields helped form Gustavo Balderas. Now the superintendent of the Eugene School District, last week Balderas was named the national superintendent of the year. Balderas has led the Eugene School District since 2015. The award, given by the national School Supertintendents Association, honors school […]
Five Benicia High athletes sign letters of intent to play in college, 2 Signing with WOU - By THOMAS GASE | tgase@timesheraldonline.com | Vallejo Times Herald PUBLISHED: February 13, 2020 at 5:47 p.m. | UPDATED: February 14, 2020 at 3:19 p.m. Five Benicia High student-athletes recently found their true north and their decisions were celebrated at a Thursday ceremony where they signed their letters of intent for college. While golfer Angel Antonio […]
WOU Student Leo Marquez Interns at Marion County DA’s Office - At WOU, many students have participated in internships that correlate to their career goals. One of those students is junior Leo Marquez, a Criminal Justice major who completed an internship last fall with the Marion County District Attorney’s office. As a student intern, Marquez informed victims of their rights, provided assistance to these victims, attended […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees pledges to keep tuition rates affordable - The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees discussed on Wednesday updates concerning a budget shortfall for the 2019-20 fiscal year and strategies for the 2020-21 university budget that address several universal higher education hurdles. President Rex Fuller reiterated his intention that the university remain affordable to Oregonians seeking a four-year degree. “WOU is not immune […]
What’s Happening Around WOU? Here’s How to Find Out - With all the events that happen on campus, it can be pretty easy to miss events. You might get an abundance of emails, or maybe there’s just too much happening around campus to keep track of it all. Here are some ways you can make sure you’re getting all the information you need. At WOU, […]
Attention Transfer Students: We’re Here to Help - When you are ready to transfer to Western Oregon University, Dr. Kristin Mauro is definitely someone you want to meet. The director of Western Oregon University’s Transfer Pathways department, Mauro is an advocate and a valuable resource for transfer students. She works with students to view their transcripts and explain how their courses will transfer, […]
Get to Know WOU’s President: Rex Fuller - This is the first in a series of stories highlighting WOU employees. By Cheyan Swan and Erin Worley We all have big aspirations as children, but the careers we follow in our adult lives can be just as important as those we dreamed of. In Western Oregon University’s president’s case, Dr. Rex Fuller aspired to […]
WOU Alum Heads Back to Campus as Coordinator for Conduct and Community Standards - WOU is a place where many feel at home. Sometimes, graduates even head back to campus to fulfill a title other than student: employee. One alum who did just this is Maria Bonifacio-Sample, a 2003 WOU grad who majored in Interdisciplinary Studies. Now, she’s back at the university as the Coordinator for Conduct and Community […]
WOU Club Feature: Acapella - Did you know WOU has an Acapella Club? We sat down with co-president Olivia Martin to learn more about the club. What is a typical meeting like at the Acapella Club? A typical meeting for Acapella Club consists of mostly learning and perfecting new music, along with a decent amount of goofing around! We start […]
Next Week at WOU (Feb. 17 to 23) - Looking for things to do at WOU this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. Important Notices SHARE YOUR EVENT NEWS: If you are hosting a campus event, be sure to add it to the calendar by visiting calendar.wou.edu and […]
Western Oregon University Invites Concordia University-Portland Students to Transfer to WOU - Students and employees invite Concordia University-Portland students to discover why they should transfer to Western Oregon University. “WOU is a good fit for Concordia students because of our many similarities, from our academic programs to our average class size,” WOU President Rex Fuller said. Concordia students have several factors to consider in deciding where to […]
Chemistry Added to Multiple Interests Equals Romance - There are countless stories of how alumni of various eras met their spouses at Western Oregon University. A high school friendship that grew into a romance. A glance in a classroom that eventually led to a marriage proposal. Instant chemistry when meeting at an athletics event. In celebration of Valentine’s Day, Today at WOU interviewed […]
WOU Alum named National Superintendent of the Year - Congratulations to WOU alum Gustavo Balderas ’90 was just named the 2020 National Superintendent of the Year! This significant recognition speaks to his dedication to Oregon’s youth. Balderas is the son of a migrant family from Mexico who settled in Oregon. Balderas works for the Eugene School District and he’s the second WOU alum to […]
Dominique Loggins earns GNAC track and field honor - Pamplin Media Group The Times By Dan Brood Tuesday, February 11, 2020 The Tualatin grad, running for Western Oregon, sprints to victory at University of Portland indoor meet Dominique Loggins, a 2019 Tualatin High School graduate, and a freshman on the Western Oregon University track and field team, got his 2020 indoor season off to […]
Corvallis names new police chief - Corvallis Gazette Times Bennett Hall Feb 11, 2020 Nick Hurley has been tapped to succeed Jon Sassaman as chief of the Corvallis Police Department, the city announced on Tuesday. Hurley, who currently holds the rank of captain, will take over leadership of the department when Sassaman retires on June 30. Hurley heads the division […]
Western Oregon runner wins national player of the week honor - Luis Ramirez Salem Statesman Journal Published 6:00 a.m. PT Feb. 5, 2020 Derek Holdsworth named National Track Athlete of the Week Derek Holdsworth put forth a record-breaking performance over the weekend for Western Oregon as won the 800-meter race at the University of Washington Invitational with a time of 1:47.74. Holdsworth won the event […]
Despite rumors, Town & Country Lanes will remain a bowling alley, after WOU Alums retire. - Capi Lynn, Salem Statesman Journal Published 6:00 a.m. PT Feb. 5, 2020 Don Lebold stands back and scans the 24 shiny, wooden lanes before him. It’s mid-morning, and his Keizer bowling alley is buzzing with patrons of the retirement age and older. He points out a woman who’s been coming here since she […]
New exhibit features work of NWC and WOU alumna - Feb 5, 2020 Published by Cody Enterprise The SinClair Gallery at Northwest College will soon feature an exhibit titled “Moth to the Flame” that will showcase a small group of painting by alumna Kelly Hartman. The artist’s reception opened this week. Hartman is a painter and printmaker who draws on nature, a love of color, […]
El Dorado High School’s Danny Bell bound for Western Oregon - Published on February 7, 2020 By Kevin Christensen Mountain Democrat Danny Bell – a three-year-starting quarterback for El Dorado High School – signs a letter of intent Wednesday, Feb. 5, to attend and play football at Western Oregon University. On hand for the special day were classmates, staff, coaches, former teammates and family, including his […]
New Independence Hotel is the perfect place for a Valentine’s getaway - Posted Feb 08, 2020 By Gerry Frank | For The Oregonian/OregonLive Spend this Valentine’s Day at the recently opened Independence Hotel (201 Osprey Ave., Independence; 503-837-0200; theindependencehotel.com). The small town of Independence often gets overlooked, but this new boutique hotel has every intention of changing that. The prime historic downtown location, near Willamette River […]
Four Oregon City student-athletes confirm college plans on Signing Day - Sunday, February 09, 2020 By Jim Beseda Clackamas Review Pamplin Media Group Oregon City High School senior Austin Canchola, Carissa Feliciano, Abi Willett, and Zach Zumwalt joined a select group student-athletes who have an opportunity to continue their athletic careers at the college level.The four were joined by family, friends, teammates, and coaches during a […]
Ex-Roseburg standout Warmouth in first season at Western Oregon - Published by TOM EGGERS News-Review Sports Editor The News-Review Jan 30, 2020 MONMOUTH — Former Roseburg High School standout Collin Warmouth is in his first season of college basketball, playing at Western Oregon University. The Wolves compete in the D-II Great Northwest Athletic Conference. Warmouth, a 6-foot-5 guard, has appeared in 14 games for […]
Employee Spotlight: University Computer Solutions’ Brittany Franklin - As part of our employee feature series, we spoke with WOU System Administrator Brittany Franklin about her current position and her time at the university, both as a student and as an employee. Brittany began her college journey as a student at Chemeketa Community College, and then transferred to WOU to finish her degree. In […]
Make Your Scholarship Applications Shine - Dedicating time and paying attention to the details are two essential requirements when applying for college scholarships. Unfortunately, too many college-bound students lower their chance to earn a scholarship by procrastinating, often resulting in sloppy applications with typos and mistakes. If the idea of earning free money for college interests you, it’s time to get […]
Erik Morgan Jr.: ASWOU President Q & A - WOU boasts a phenomenal student government, aptly named the Associated Students of Western Oregon University (ASWOU). These leaders are dedicated to ensuring students are well-supported, as well as advocating for student rights. We had the opportunity to speak with ASWOU president Erik Morgan Jr., who offered us some insight into his experience with the organization. […]
Where Should I Go to College? Tips to Help Students Decide - Your late nights of writing essays and completing applications has resulted in acceptance letters from more than one university. Now with choices on the table, it’s time to decide what college fits best for you and your goals. Western Oregon University sophomore Tori Cook recommends prospective students first look at the programs and majors offered […]
Resident Halls: Barnum - Of all the housing options at WOU, Barnum Hall differs most. Jojo McGee, a Barnum RA from this past academic year, characterizes the residence hall by its layout, as it is very similar in feel and practicality to an apartment. Because Barnum is not comprised of halls that share bathrooms and other gathering spaces, residents […]
Congress to Campus Fosters Civil Communication, Engagement and Literacy - Western Oregon University Professor Mary Pettenger and Assistant Professor Earlene Camarillo believe the connections each of us makes with people who have different perspectives and opinions allow us to learn and grow as a community. That’s why Camarillo and Pettenger, who both teach in the Politics, Policy and Administration department, collaborated to bring Congress to […]
Resident Halls: Landers - Landers Hall is comprised of three floors and four pods per floor that are open to residents. Traditionally, pods were organized by pairs with one RA overlooking each pair per floor. In the new system, beginning in Fall 2019, each pod is overlooked by their own RA. Jaqcueline Cach Briceno, the RA of Pods 3 […]
Next Week at WOU (Feb. 10 to 16) - Looking for things to do at WOU next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. Important Notices Community members are welcome to attend public lectures, athletic events and more. Come explore what’s happening at Western Oregon University. Tuesday, Feb. 11 COFFEE […]
Residence Halls: Heritage - Heritage Hall is a four-story, stand-alone building that houses first-year students. The RA of Fourth Christensen, Leah Coyle, defines Heritage and its community as overall welcoming. The programs, environment, and atmosphere are interesting, safe, and inclusive. One of the notable benefits is the halls’ layout, shaped in a T formation with a community area in […]
Residence Halls: Ackerman - Ackerman Hall is the newest amongst WOU’s first-year housing options. It is comprised of three coed wings per floor, spanning up through three full residence floors. Zac Cole, the RA for Third Taylor this academic year, characterized Ackerman’s community experience by its mixed class nature. Ackerman is the only residence hall that fills each hall […]
Tips for Finding, Applying and Interviewing for Campus Jobs - Classes plus homework is about the same as a full-time job for many students at Western Oregon University. For students looking for a job to help pay for tuition, living expenses, transportation or other things, the best option is an on-campus job because the work hours are arranged to meet the students’ class schedules. On-campus […]
Video: Police Trained to Communicate Better with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Communities - We’re thrilled to have collaborated with DPSST and Seek the World on this video highlighting how police are trained to communicate, interact, and partner with the deaf and hard of hearing communities. See any familiar faces? WOU ASL faculty and alumni! You can also view and share the video on our Facebook page!
Admitted to Western Oregon University? Take the next steps! - RSVP to WOU If a friend invited you to a movie, you would accept, decline or defer the offer to another time? The same is true with your acceptance letter. It’s important for planning purposes that you let us know your decision. You can indicate your choice by completing WOU’s Intent to Enroll form, which […]
Next Week at WOU (Feb. 3 to 9) - Looking for things to do at WOU next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. Important Notices CANCELED: CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION: The Chinese New Year event on Friday, Jan. 31 has been postponed. It will be held in conjunction with […]
Western Oregon University Choirs Are Belgium-Bound - Dr. James Reddan does more than ask his Western Oregon University choir students to shoot for the stars. Reddan, as an assistant music professor and director of choral activities, makes certain every student has the skills and knowledge to confidently reach the destination. “I have high expectations for my students, but they are always achievable […]
Western Oregon University Hosts Winter Preview Day on Feb. 1 - When she was a senior in high school in 2017, Cheyanne Bumgardner said Western Oregon University caught her attention because of what she had read about it. But she knew she needed to learn more. WOU stood out to her for many reasons, including the mid-sized campus, the small classes and the many specialized programs. […]
WOU’s Handshake May Lead to a Handshake - Western Oregon University students and alumni seeking employment opportunities should start with Handshake. And, hopefully that leads to a congratulatory handshake. Handshake is a job and information site used by employers and recruiters to post jobs, internships and events available for WOU students and alumni. The site is accessed through the WolfLink program in students’ […]
CWU hosting free West African dance and drumming workshop - Published by The Daily Record Master teacher Darryl Thomas will teach West African dance and drumming at Central Washington University during a two-day workshop on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, according to a news release. The free workshops will be held in Nicholson Pavilion Dance Studio 106 and are open to the public. According to […]
Barlow HS basketball coaching icon nearing career milestone of 600 wins - Published by Nick Krupke, Fox 12 GRESHAM, OR (KPTV) – He is a true living legend in the Oregon coaching circle and a pillar in the Gresham community at Barlow High School. His assistant coaches have joked about him being the winningest coach in the state to never win a state title. While that is […]
Next Week at WOU (Jan. 27 to Feb. 2) - Looking for things to do at WOU this next week? We’ve got you covered with a selection of upcoming events. See the full calendar here or on your MyWOU app. Important Dates NEED TO DROP A COURSE?: Friday, Jan. 31 is the last day to drop a course without a grade responsibility. Monday, Jan. […]
Western Oregon University students find inspiration in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s work and words - The words and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. have provided inspiration and guidance to Western Oregon University students Chanrithy Fuller-Avalos, Priscila España and Jake Sutherby. The three students’ paths recently merged when they were chosen as the top three contestants in WOU’s MLK Jr. Student Essay Competition. The students wrote essays based on […]
Discover Exceptional Art Exhibits at Western Oregon University - Paula Booth encourages people to walk through Western Oregon University’s art exhibits with the knowledge “nothing is expected of them when they do.” Booth is the director of the Cannon Gallery of Art and oversees the exhibits in the Hamersly Library and the Werner University Center. She is also an assistant professor. “Just come in […]
Bandon Runner Signs with Western Oregon - By John Gunther, The World BANDON — Shannon Smith’s parents weren’t surprised she became successful at running even though she came to the sport relatively late — she didn’t start until the track season of her sophomore year. “Shannon has always been the person if she’s going to do something, she’s going to do it […]
Honors Program Insights - Western Oregon University’s Honors Program is a subcommunity of the university’s academic populace. The required curriculum is developed by and for the students engaging in it, as the Honors Committee is comprised of both instructors and honors students. Leading the program is Gavin Keulks, who has been WOU’s Honors Director for 10 years. For his […]
Nine Reasons Squirrels Are the Best - What animal has the reputation as an acrobat, bandit, gardener and trickster? That can be seen zigzagging across roads, parks and backyards? And is celebrated on Jan. 21? Yes, it’s the squirrel! In honor of National Squirrel Appreciation Day, Western Oregon University has compiled some fun facts about squirrels, WOU’s unofficial mascot. Christy Hargrove, a […]
WOU Transfer Day is Friday, Jan. 24 - Western Oregon University has created a simple and advantageous process to help transfer students join the Wolves family. The first step students interested in transferring to WOU should make is to attend WOU Transfer Student Day on Friday, Jan. 24. The free event for students and their guests begins at 8:30 a.m. and goes until […]
- By Carol Rosen, Canby Herald Most of us love to travel, visiting states in our homeland and occasionally taking a look at the countries that make up the world. But few of us ever get a chance to work abroad, meet and live with the people in their culture and see what they think of […]
She and He Build ‘She-sheds’ in Sherwood - By Ray Pitz, Portland Tribune When Anthony and Jamie Taylor-Weber were looking for a work space to run Anthony’s home inspection business, they initially thought that a small space on a kitchen table in the family’s Tualatin home would work just fine. It didn’t. “Even if we had a room in (our) home, it’s still […]
Students Find Inspiration in the FEM in STEM Program - Western Oregon University student Victoria Rhine can’t summarize in a single sentence the importance the FEM in STEM program has had on her journey to complete bachelor degrees in computer science and social science this year. But she can explain how the program is an inspiration to her and fellow STEM students. “I would not […]
National Student Exchange Allows WOU Students to Explore New Cultures - The National Student Exchange (NSE) is a program that allows college students to study at another university for a partial or full school year. Participating universities are located both domestically in the United States, as well as in Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Canada. Where NSE differs from traditional study abroad programs […]
WOU WEEKLY ROUND-UP - Notices WUC CLOSED FOR THREE-DAY WEEKEND: The Werner University Center’s (WUC) hours for the three-day weekend are: closes at 5 p.m. Jan. 17 and is closed Jan. 19 to Jan. 20. The regular hours resume Jan. 21. LAST DAY TO ADD A CLASS: The deadline to add a course is Friday, Jan. 17. If you […]
Coos Bay Police Department Welcomes New Officer - By Nicholas A. Johnson, The World Last week the Coos Bay Police Department held a swearing in ceremony where Coos Bay Police Chief Gary McCullough welcomed the department’s new officer Chris Rule. Rule comes to the Coos Bay Police Department with about 10 years of experience working law enforcement, having spent eight of those years […]
WOU Honors the Work and Vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - Western Oregon University’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration serves both as a tradition and a reminder. “It’s a tradition of celebrating and bringing the WOU community together to focus an incredible civil rights leader and activist, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,” said Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs Malissa Larson. Patrick Moser, assistant vice […]
Outdoor Adventures to Explore Near WOU - Growing up in southern Oregon, Western Oregon University senior Maddy Olson had heard of Silver Falls State Park, Opal Creek Scenic Recreation and Opal Creek Wilderness and Cascade Head Trail. Thanks to WOU’s Outdoor Program, a part of Campus Recreation, she has had the opportunity to hike all three places, discovering stunning waterfalls, magnificent ocean […]
WOU Welcomes Family and Friends - There are the many reasons Western Oregon University students Hailey Silberfarb and McKenzie Wolfe-Webb are eager to have their families visit during WOU Family Weekend later this month “Family weekend is filled with entertainment while also having much-needed breaks that allow your parents to help stock your fridge,” junior Wolfe-Webb said. “It’s nice to have […]
General education classes build foundation for career success - When Western Oregon University sophomore Maya Schlosser-Hall started college in 2018, she was on track to take four math classes to graduate as an education major. “Math is not my strong suit,” she said. “I was worried about taking four math classes because I was worried I wasn’t going to succeed in them and that […]
Priceless skill of perseverance - Everyone has setbacks that cause them to want to throw up their hands and yell, “I quit.” Perhaps it was after being told they weren’t smart, fast, talented or creative enough to succeed in their chosen path. There is a long list of well-known people who experienced failure including Mozart, Dr. Seuss, Oprah Winfrey, Michael […]
Celebrating Social Justice Anniversary - 
Virtual Tour of WOU’s ASL Programs - 
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Oregon’s ratification of the 19th Amendment - Lend your hands to help create a historical record celebrating the 100th anniversary of Oregon’s ratification of the 19th Amendment, which eventually placed women’s voting rights in the U.S. Constitution. Western Oregon University history professor Kimberly Jensen invites campus and community members to make a social justice art panel at noon on Tuesday, Jan. 14 […]
Here’s to a happier and healthier you in 2020 - Achieve your goals to be happier and healthier in 2020 by discovering an activity at Western Oregon University’s Peter Courtney Health and Wellness Center, also known as the Courtney Center. “Exercise and physical activities can increase energy, reduce depression, anxiety and stress, create a positive mood, increase self-esteem and confidence, improve sleep, and support cognitive processes,” […]
WOU Announces New American Sign Language Assessment Service - Western Oregon University continues to be a leader in American Sign Language. Our Regional Resource Center on Deafness (RRCD) is the first to offer a nationwide ASL assessment service (called RSLA) in the western United States. The service uses Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI) conducted in ASL to assess the individuals’ ASL skills. The service […]
Winter Break: Organize your college game plan - High school seniors should take advantage of their winter break to invest in their future. While it’s a time to relax and have fun, it’s also an opportunity to organize materials for college applications and scholarships to avoid stressful late nights and looming deadlines. Here are a few tips recommended by advisers at Western Oregon […]
Leadership at WOU: An Alum’s Impact on Campus - “Leadership isn’t something you go into lightly. It’s a choice. We make a choice to be leaders.” Felicia Dickinson is a WOU alum who exemplifies student leadership. A native Oregonian and a transfer student from Lane Community College, she attended WOU for three years, with a major in Political Science and a minor in Communication […]
New master’s in Organizational Leadership provides foundation for tomorrow’s leaders - Western Oregon University professor David Foster explained leadership skills can be acquired in one of two ways – the college of hard knocks or preferably in WOU’s new master’s in Organizational Leadership program. “When people learn leadership skills in the college of hard knocks, they often make mistakes that have severe consequences,” Foster said. The […]
Holiday Events Around WOU - As the temperature begins to drop, a feeling of celebration spreads across campus. Even though students might be cramming for tests and spending long hours at the library, the campus is alight with the spirit of the season. From festive lights wrapped around the giant Sequoia tree to hot cocoa served in Caffé Allegro, signs […]
Major Myth Busting - Niki Weight is eager to bust three myths to hopefully help college students stop stressing so much about changing their major. National research indicates 80% of college students change their major at least once, adding it’s not uncommon for students to change their major three times. The director of Western Oregon University’s Student Success and […]
Gabbie Acevedo-Solis ’20 - Future educator rises to all challenges As a senior majoring in middle/high school education with a concentration in social science and a minor in Spanish, Gabbie Acevedo-Solis’ dream job is teaching Latin American history in a language immersion program. Given her strong work ethic and impressive grade-point average, that goal seems well within reach. She’s […]
Jeanne Carver ’75 - Coach, teacher, businesswoman, and thrives on obstacles Jeanne (Zumwalt) Carver and her family moved around a lot, following the timber industry’s demand for new access roads to logging sites. “My father was a road contractor,” she explained. “He started his own company. It was a startup way back in the ’50s.” Carver’s mother was a […]
Community Builder: Bec Williams ’98 - While pursuing a degree in health education with a minor in business, Bec Williams ’98 spent all four years at Western Oregon University working at Campus Recreation. Many years later, as owner of Eugene’s Playground Sports, which offers recreational sports leagues for adults, this experience has served her well. “I had a lot of skills […]
Weekly 5: Meet Five WOU Veterans - In honor of Veterans Day and the activities hosted by our Veterans Resource Center throughout this week, we wanted to introduce you to five veterans who are part of our WOU community. Thank you to these students and staff for talking with us, and to all veterans for your service. Brian Ulbricht Brian Ulbricht, a […]
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play - Experience the behind-the-scene escapades of a 1946 radio broadcast by attending the Western Oregon University Theatre Department’s presentation of It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play on Nov. 14-16 and Nov. 20-23. WOU Theatre Professor and Director Kent Neely said the live radio play is a great start to the holiday season for anyone who […]
Mission to serve others - Colin Haines is now a different kind of warrior. “When I was in the military, I was taking care of some blatantly obvious physical wounds,” Haines, 35, said. “Now, I am caring for the invisible wounds.” The director of Western Oregon University’s Veterans Resource Center (VRC), Haines served 10 years as a U.S. Army airborne […]
WOU Alum Volunteers with Peace Corps in Eswatini - Amy Watkins, a 2017 Community Health Education graduate, is currently serving with the Peace Corps in Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland. In Eswatini, she is participating in the Community HIV/AIDS Mitigation Project (CHAMP), where she works to support individuals living with HIV, as well as implement projects in order to prevent the spread of the […]
Building and navigating pathways for students’ success - Shelve all the notions you may have about what it takes to properly manage a college library. Especially now that Chelle Batchelor has taken the helm at Hamersly Library. With more than 25 years of experience working in college libraries, Batchelor was chosen as Western Oregon University’s dean of Library and Academic Innovation, a new […]
Two Young Adult Authors Found Inspiration at Western Oregon - A 17-year-old gravedigger and three futuristic teens can trace their stories’ beginnings to their authors’ experiences at Western Oregon University. The gravedigger protagonist belongs to the imagination of Emily Lloyd-Jones ’10, and the space-age tech and steampunk-style clockwork teens to Rosiee Thor ’14. Both authors released young adult novels this fall. Lloyd-Jones’ fourth novel, The […]
Paranormal Tales of Todd Hall - Written by Natalie Dean Todd Hall rests at Western Oregon University, built as the first dorm in 1912 and was named in honor of Jessica Todd, who was the first Dean of Women. Her legacy lingers in the building’s halls due to her well-known discipline, even after her retirement in 1931. She made sure the […]
PHS Grad Lucas Sinclair Returns as Police Officer - By Brad Fuqua; published in the Philomath Express Patrolling Philomath’s streets and responding to calls overnight on graveyard shifts, 23-year-old rookie police officer Lucas Sinclair has a high degree of familiarity with the lay of the land. A little more than five years earlier, Sinclair had received his Philomath High School diploma to embark on […]
Fun Fall and Halloween Activities in the Area - Story by Cheyan Swan All around campus, temperatures are dropping, the leaves overhead are changing colors, and Halloween decorations are popping up in town. Fall has arrived, and with it are the many exciting and fun harvest activities in the greater Monmouth area. Local farms and businesses offer affordable activities for WOU students and beyond, […]
Cybersecurity Program Perfect Fit for Transfers - As the father of three children, Matt Wick, 29, wanted the quickest route to earn a degree that would allow him to “work with his brain instead of his back.” He was surprised to discover that pathway would lead him to Western Oregon University. Wick had worked in construction and owned a small business for […]
Third-Generation WOU Student is Student Leader - A third-generation student, Erik Morgan Jr. can pinpoint the events that propelled him from being “only partly politically aware” to being elected Associated Students of Western Oregon (ASWOU) president. At Stayton High School, Morgan Jr. played soccer and acted in school plays. Student government wasn’t on his radar. Not knowing what he wanted to study […]
Interns aid Scappoose growth - By Anna Del Savio, published in the Columbia County Spotlight During a period of rapid growth, including residential and industrial, team of new city interns sets a productive pace. Now assistant to City Manager Michael Sykes, Alexandra Rains started working for the City of Scappoose as an intern in 2015. Rains was working toward her […]
Weekly 5: Hamersly Library - Five things to know about the Hamersly Library It’s a friendly and supportive place for students, faculty and staff members to receive assistance from librarians who are passionate about their work and serving students. With art to historic displays, the Hamersly Library also is a good place to go for inspiration. Pick a floor and […]
Preview of Homecoming 2019 - Whether it is strolling down memory lane, discovering traditions or cheering at the football game, Western Oregon University’s 2019 Homecoming is an opportunity for creates a camaraderie for community members, alumni and students. Western Oregon University’s 2019 Homecoming theme “Wild, Wild Western,” provides plenty of opportunities for students, alumni and community members to celebrate their school […]
Western Oregon University receives $1 million grant to support rehabilitation and mental health counseling - Western Oregon University’s (WOU) Regional Resource Center on Deafness (RRCD) has received a $1 million grant from the federal Rehabilitation Service Administration to support its Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling (RMHC) Program. The grant begins immediately and runs through Sept. 30, 2024. RRCD will receive $200,000 annually for the grant, which supports RMHC students with […]
Western Oregon University buys Vick building in downtown Salem to expand its Salem presence - Western Oregon University (WOU) finalized today the purchase of the historical Vick building in downtown Salem at 525 Trade St. WOU’s Board of Trustees voted Wednesday to approve the purchase. The Vick building will be WOU’s Salem home for several programs, including the brand new Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership. “We’re thrilled to be […]
30 Days to WOU: Countdown for Incoming Students - Are you about to start your first term at Western Oregon University? We want to help prepare you for move-in day, New Student Week, and the rest of your time at WOU with a 30-day countdown to move-in day. We’re talking all about living on campus, getting involved, places to eat on campus, and much […]
Hamlet performed on campus in outdoor production - Looking for something fun to do over summer weekends? You’re in luck! The Valley Shakespeare Company (VSC) is performing their rendition of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet during the last weekend of July and the first weekend of August. The VSC’s goal is to “[encourage] students, families and community members, young and old, to join in the […]
Western Oregon University Trustees Approve Strategic Tapping of Reserves as Legislature Mulls Funding - The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees on Wednesday approved a deficit budget for 2019-2020, which reflects a previously approved 2.33% increase in resident undergraduate tuition. The budget passed even as the Oregon Legislature has yet to release its Public University Support Fund. WOU was one of the first state universities to finalize its new […]
Grad Profile: Caitlyn Nakatsukasa - Caitlyn Nakatsukasa is a graduating student from Honolulu, Hawaii and will obtain a degree in Business with a minor in Organizational Leadership. After her graduation, she is wasting no time and going straight to grad school! Why did you choose WOU? WOU made it very affordable for me to attend and receive a great education […]
Grad Profile: Matthew Ciraulo - Matthew Ciraulo is a graduating student from Murrieta, California and will earn a degree in Sociology with a minor in History. Why did you choose WOU? Originally I planned to teach high school history. WOU was brought to my attention as a progressive and reputable education program. Once I got the opportunity to tour the school, […]
Grad Profile: Martha Lucia - Martha Lucia is a student originally from Colombia, South America and she’s been living in the United States for the last 19 years. Married, her husband Greg has been her great support, along with her children, Avalon and Ethan, and her brother and family in Colombia. She will receive a B.S. in Early Childhood Elementary […]
Grad Profile: Jocelyn Garcia - Jocelyn Garcia is a first-generation student graduating with a degree in Visual Communication Design and a minor in The Arts. She has also been recognized on the Honor Roll and the President’s list multiple times. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because of its great art program and community. Since it was very […]
Grad Profile: Daisy Chavez Guzman - Daisy Chavez Guzman is a first-generation student graduating with a double major degree in Psychology and Spanish. Why did you choose WOU? I decided to attend WOU because of the size of the campus, I wanted to attend a university that was small enough for me to but big enough to meet diverse students. I also loved […]
Grad Profile: Janie Ramirez Manzo - Janie Ramirez Manzo is a first-generation college student who will be obtaining a degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology. Why did you choose WOU? The small class sizes and campus was really important to me; it was my most affordable option What do you love most about WOU? I love all the […]
Grad Profile: Mandy Abel - Mandy Abel from Sherwood, Oregon, will be graduating from WOU with a degree in Earth Science and a minor in Public Policy and Administration Why did you choose WOU? It was close to home, which was very important to me, had a small average class size, and is a public university so I knew it […]
Grad Profile: Jaide Wa’a - Jaide Wa’a, originally from Nanakuli, Hawaii is a first-year student who will be graduating from WOU with a degree in Biology with a concentration on Pre-Medicine and a minor in Chemistry. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I liked its location in Oregon, the size of the campus, the community, and its sizable […]
Grad Profile: Demeter Finch - Demeter is a first-generation honors student here at WOU who will be obtaining a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Special Education and Humanities with a minor in Spanish. Why did you choose WOU? The American Sign Language/English Interpreting program. What do you love most about WOU? The professors and overall elevated level […]
Grad Profile: Tristan Aldous - Tristan Aldous, from Drain, Oregon, will earn a degree in Communication Studies with a minor in Organizational Leadership from WOU. Why did you choose WOU? The reason I chose WOU isn’t the reason I stayed. I originally came to WOU because I was a Theatre Arts major and the program here. I chose WOU because of […]
Grad Profile: Susana Venegas - Susana Vergas will be leaving WOU with a degree in Social Science with a focus in Criminal Justice and two minors in Forensic Psychology and Spanish. Originally from Salem, Oregon, Susana is a proud first-generation student who attended all her four years at WOU. Why did you choose WOU? Western was my first college choice […]
Grad Profile: Ethan Novak - Ethan Novak is a student from Imperial, California who will be graduating with an Elementary Master of Arts in Teaching. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU after listening to a presentation they gave to the Corvallis School District on their brand new eMAT program. It was truly everything I was looking for in a […]
Grad Profile: Tiffany Lewis - Tiffany Lewis is a graduating student from Tacoma, Washington. She will be obtaining a degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education with an ESOL endorsement and a minor in French. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I knew that I wanted to be a teacher and their education program is nationally recognized! I also […]
Grad Profile: Alexis Klatt - Alexis Klatt is a first generation student from Philomath, Oregon who will be graduating with a degree in Early Childhood Studies; Therapeutic care and trauma-informed practices. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because of its small class sizes, student-teacher relationships, beautiful campus, and opportunities within the Education Program. What do you love most […]
Grad Profile: Daniel Sampson - Daniel Sampson, after maintaining academic honor roll from spring 2016 to spring 2018, will be graduating with a degree in Contemporary Music with a Jazz and Popular Music Emphasis. He is originally from Newport, Oregon and transferred to Western Oregon University from the Oregon Coast Community College located there. Why did you choose WOU? I […]
Grad Profile: Sarah Hughes - Sarah Hughes is a graduating honors student from Salem Oregon who will earn a degree in psychology with a minor in writing. Why did you choose WOU? For the small and welcoming campus. What do you love most about WOU? The small classes sizes are great for learning, but they’re even better for building connections […]
Grad Profile: Rachelle Austin - Rachelle Austin, from Keizer, is graduating this June after four years studying Chemistry with a minor in physics. She transferred from University of Oregon. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I was looking for a smaller town and smaller, more close-knit university. I didn’t really enjoy having classes of 500+ students and […]
Grad Profile: Tyler Jones - Tyler Jones, from Bend, is finishing degrees in Mathematics and Business with a concentration in accounting. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU to fulfill my dream of collegiate running as part of the cross country and track team. What do you love most about WOU? I think the campus and class size is […]
Grad Profile: Ailyn Angel - Ailyn Angel is a graduating student from Hillsboro and will be obtaining a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Humanities and Social Science. She is a first-generation student who transferred from Portland Community College in fall 2017. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I was initially interested in the Education […]
Grad Profile: Jacoby “Coby” Cid - Jacoby “Coby” Cid is a transfer student from Leeward Community College graduating this year with a degree in Visual Communication Design and a full-time position as a digital communication specialist at Maps Credit Union. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because I came to play football and heard great things about the VCD […]
Western Oregon University Mourns the Loss of Long-Time Supporter Sen. Jackie Winters - Western Oregon University was deeply saddened to learn of Oregon Sen. Jackie Winters’ death Wednesday after a courageous battle with cancer. Winters, a longtime WOU supporter, was known for her work to further higher education in Oregon. Not only did Sen. Winters represent District 10, the region where WOU is located, but she also gave […]
Grad Profile: Libbie Hoene - Libbie Hoene is a graduating student from Lebanon, Oregon and is completing a bachelor’s in Communications with a minor in Organizational Leadership. Why did you choose WOU? I originally picked to come to WOU because I was playing volleyball at here at the D2 level. What do you love most about WOU? I love the […]
Students Learn Computer Coding with Dance - REDMOND, OR — Crook County Middle School computer science students spent Thursday at COCC-Redmond, learning to make a stick figure dance to the song “Gangnam Style.” They worked with Western Oregon University’s iLumiDance team to code lights on a life-sized stick man, to flash with the beat of the song. The 34 kids were divided into six teams and […]
Western Oregon University and Linn-Benton Community College to Announce Degree Partnership Program - Western Oregon University and Linn-Benton Community College on May 10 will finalize a partnership that makes it easier for LBCC students to transfer to WOU, a four-year university, and earn a bachelor’s degree in the expected timeline. The Degree Partnership Program (DPP) between the two institutions marks a collaboration that ensures students who begin at […]
Grad Profile: Alison Nelke - Alison Nelke is from Albany, Oregon and will be graduating with a bachelor’s in Business with an Accounting concentration, as well as a minor in History. Why did you choose WOU? I was recruited to play basketball for the women’s basketball team, and then I fell in love with the campus. WOU’s Business major with […]
Congratulations to the 2019 Peter Sears Poetry Prize Winners - The English Studies Department announced the winners of the 2019 Peter Sears Poetry Prize. The first prize went to Nicole Caldwell, second prize to Tricia Manzano and third prize to Laura Wildfang. The three winning poems are below. The competition received over 60 poems from students. An English Studies committee selected 10 poems that were […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Approves Undergrad Resident Tuition Increase of 2.33% - The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees approved an increase of 2.33%, or $4 per credit, for Oregon resident undergraduate students in the 2019-20 academic year at its quarterly meeting Wednesday. WOU is one of the first state public universities to finalize its new tuition rate in advance of the Oregon Legislature’s budget decision for […]
WOU in the News: Oakland’s Dominique Harrison Among Sugar Skulls Newbies Hoping to Make Instant Impact - Roster turnover happens often in any nonmajor professional sport. One week a player could be the best for a franchise and by the following week, they can find a new opportunity in a different league. It’s “the nature of the business” as Sugar Skulls coach Marcus Coleman puts it. When the Sugar Skulls (3-2) host […]
CLASS NOTES - 1960s Cori Frauendiener ’67 retired in March from Maps Credit Union, where she’d worked for 35 years, most recently as director of education partnerships. The credit union has established a $5,000 scholarship in her honor for education students attending WOU. 1970s Steve Lamb ’75 has published the book Engaging Collective Will for Student Success.Steve has retired […]
In memoriam - 1940s Lenora J. Bond 1950s Irene (Gerold) Hake Lafona Jensen Mardene G. Keveren Eugene O. Owens Betty A. Reeves Helen Richard Arlene Jensen Ross Raymond A. Scofield LaVerne A. Streight Harry F. Sievers Ella M. Swanson 1960s Elizabeth Bachman Jack L. Gorman Ronald G. Miller Rudy H. Sonnen 1970s James R. Ammon […]
WOU in the News: Above and Beyond: WMS Mentor Honored - Matt Hurst has always gone beyond the call of duty to help the teachers and students with whom he works. And back in February, it was clear that his dedication didn’t go unnoticed. Hurst, who is an instructional mentor at Whiteaker Middle School, was honored with the 2019 Outstanding Technology Educator of the Year award, […]
WOU in the News: Stephenson Joins Volleyball Staff at WOU - MONMOUTH — Western Oregon head volleyball coach Stacy Metro announced the addition of Traci Stephenson to her staff on Monday. Stephenson will join the Wolves as an assistant coach for the 2019 season, the first under Metro’s leadership. Stephenson joins the Wolves’ staff after eight seasons as the head coach at Chemeketa Community College in […]
WOU in the News: Outdoor Track & Field Preview - MONMOUTH — There’s nothing like coming back to the roots from which you came. Samuel Cole, a sophomore on Western Oregon University’s track and field team, knows that to be true. After spending a year at Clackamas Community College, he came back to Independence, where he was born and raised, to attend classes at WOU […]
WESTERN OREGON UNIVERSITY SALEM - Western Oregon University has been located in Monmouth since 1856, but in 2019, the university also planted its flag in the nearby capital of Salem. WOU’s second location is in the south part of the city, conveniently located and designed for students seeking to start or finish their degrees. WOU classes started in Salem in […]
Winningham Family “All in for WOU” - “My favorite thing about WOU is that the students who come here have the opportunity to be launched…” Rob Winningham took over as provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at the beginning of March, but he has been a fixture at Western Oregon University for nearly 20 years. He started in 2000, just a […]
Athletic training team builds on foundation - From left: Bo Johnson, Chris Thew, Alyssa Asay and Brandon Walcott-Ayers Long-time Head Athletic Trainer Kurtis Kidd retired in 2018 after 30 years at WOU; that kind of longevity could be intimidating for athletic trainers who follow in his footsteps. The current team doesn’t look worried. They appreciate the processes Kidd created and plan […]
Honoring Tina Fuchs - In February, Tina Fuchs, associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students, received the Kay Rich Lifetime Achievement award from the Northwest Association of College and University Housing Officers (NWACUHO). The award recognizes the contributions that individual housing professionals make as leaders and mentors throughout the course of their careers. Fuchs has served […]
Dyed in the wool Wolves: The Hamors - Donna and Clark Hamor recently became Sustainers with the WOU Foundation, but their support for the university goes back for decades, a fact borne out by Clark’s collection of time-hopping WOU clothing. Donna, a WOU grad from the OCE era who earned a bachelor’s in 1970 and a master’s in 1976, and Clark, who graduated […]
Dance program takes leap into future - The Western Oregon University Dance program has graduated hundreds of students into careers such as studio owner, dance instructor, professional dancer and choreographer. Starting with the 2019-20 academic year, however, students in the program will have two new emphases to consider, each with its own important path to a job in dance. “We always had […]
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Welcomes New Member Doug Morse - Western Oregon University welcomes Doug Morse of Columbia Sportswear to its Board of Trustees. Morse was confirmed by the Oregon Senate in late March. Currently serving as a senior vice president at Portland-based Columbia Sportswear, Morse brings nearly 25 years of business experience from the company to his position on the WOU board. He will […]
WOU in the News: Spearing the Competition - MONMOUTH — Darian Wilson had an impressive start to her collegiate athletic career on the Western Oregon University track and field team last year, when she competed in the NCAA Division II National Championship for javelin, came in seventh, and picked up an All-American accolade along the way. A freshman then, Wilson said she had […]
WOU in the News: Slippery Nature of ‘Sensual Fish’ - “It’s kind of a slippery topic,” Henry Hughes told me Tuesday, in a conversation about his upcoming lecture “The Sensual Fish.” At its heart, the April 2 lecture is about fish. It’s part of the Montana State University Library Trout and Salmonid Lecture Series. But it’s also about sex. “The wet, dark, mysterious, fishy and primal […]
WOU in the News: New Performing Arts Director Settles into Position at PHS - In the fifth grade, Erica Epperley decided she wanted to play the flute. The next year, she joined the choir. “I knew right away that I wanted to do music in some aspect,” said Epperley, who took over as Philomath High School’s performing arts director this academic year. “I got my bachelor’s and master’s in […]
WOU in the News: Competing Against Cancer - What could be worse than finding out that you have cancer? For Anne Williams, it was being told that she would not be able to teach this year at Lebanon High School. For Williams, 42, the diagnosis of colon cancer came as a relief after she had started to not feel well last July. “It […]
WOU in the News: Athlete Quietly Clears Hurdles - In one sense, Janna Vander Meulen is an accidental hurdler. Throughout high school in Puyallup, Washington, and into college at Western Oregon, soccer was her passion and focus. Racing over hurdles was fun, but just something that helped her stay in shape and hang out with friends. A decade later, Vander Meulen is an American […]
WOU in the News: Who Will Lead Our Schools? - An opportunity to meet and greet the remaining candidates for Gervais School District superintendent drew dozens to the district’s elementary school Thursday, Feb. 28. Attendees with an appetite enjoyed a modest dinner, and seconds if they liked, prior to being entertained by successive performances from each of a trio of educators vying to lead the […]
WOU in the News: Heine Joins PIDB as VP - Hagatna, Guam- Pacific Islands Development Bank (PIDB) is proud to announce and welcome Dwight P. Heine as the Bank’s Vice President. In that capacity, Mr. Heine will be assisting the President & CEO in leading the overall management and operation of the bank. Specific duties and responsibilities include strategic planning and budgeting, lending, staff management […]
Western Oregon University Hosting Regional Rugby Championships this Weekend - Western Oregon University (WOU) is hosting a weekend of men’s rugby on campus for the National Small College Rugby Organization’s (NSCRO) 2019 Challenge Cup Pacific Coast Region Championship on Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31. The four teams competing at the championship are WOU, Central Oregon Community College, Humboldt State University, and Azusa Pacific […]
WOU in the News: Oakland Raiders Sign Wide Receiver Tyrell Williams - ALAMEDA, Calif. – The Oakland Raiders have signed unrestricted free agent WR Tyrell Williams, the club announced Wednesday. Originally an undrafted free agent following the 2015 NFL Draft, Williams signed with the San Diego Chargers and spent the first four seasons (2015-18) of his career with the club. Over his four-year career, Williams has appeared […]
WOU in the News: New Owner for Iconic Downtown Albany Barbershop - Debbie George remembers riding her bike into downtown Albany and seeing a barber pole spinning outside Parnell Person’s shop like a beacon, visible from blocks away. Person died Dec. 6 at age 85, but his barbershop survives. And George is the new owner and clipping hair at the Personal Barber Shop, 335 Second Ave. SW. […]
WOU in the News: Race to Redemption: Taft grad Arce-Torres Puts Future Ahead of Past - Few people understand the importance of getting from here to there the fastest than 2018 Taft High graduate Gabe Arce-Torres. Among the state’s speediest sprinters on last spring’s Tigers track and field team, Arce-Torres was virtually unstoppable in bursting from starting block to finishing tape in Oregon’s small-school ranks. Then, somebody threw a roadblock in […]
WOU in the News: Think Too Much: ‘Governing Oregon’ Offers Vital Political Insights - Earlier this year, the Oregon State University Press delivered a gift to every member of the state Legislature: A copy of a just-published book, “Governing Oregon: Continuity and Change,” featuring 19 insightful essays on the state’s politics. For anyone who’s interested in how Oregon got to this precise political point, a fifth of the way […]
WOU in the News: To Improve Teacher Diversity, Salem-Keizer Focusing on Training its Own Students, Classroom Aides - Jessica Zamarron was inspired by her first-grade teacher at Swegle Elementary. Seeing Karina Rodriguez, another bilingual Latina, in front of the classroom, Zamarron knew her teacher had similar life experiences. If she had a problem at home or needed advice, Rodriguez was the teacher she went to. “I related to her,” Zamarron said. She remembered […]
WOU in the News: Kaiser Permanente Names Patient Care Leader - Tae Abate has been named care experience practice leader of the Kaiser Permanente San Rafael Medical Center, overseeing development, planning and oversight of patient care experience. Abate, who has made a career as a program coordinator and consultant for gender equality, violence against women issues and LGBTQ and human rights, is responsible for patient satisfaction. […]
20 Questions with New Provost Dr. Rob Winningham - We’re thrilled that Dr. Rob Winningham is now serving as Western Oregon University’s provost. Winningham joined WOU in 2000 as an assistant professor of psychology. Over the years, this homegrown leader moved up the ranks to full professor, chair of the Behavioral Sciences Division, then interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, […]
A Tour of WOU: Salem - WOU comes to YOU! Learn more about Western Oregon University offering classes in Salem. To enroll, visit wou.edu/salem.
Dr. Rob Winningham Begins New Position as Provost at Western Oregon University - Dr. Rob Winningham began his position March 1 as provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at Western Oregon University. Winningham previously served in that post on an interim basis since July 1, 2018. Winningham started at Western Oregon University in 2000 as an assistant professor of psychology. In the ensuing years, he earned tenure […]
Top 5 Tips for Strong Scholarship Applications - March 1 is major deadline for many scholarship applications (including at WOU), so this week can be a stressful time for lots of incoming freshmen–and returning students as well. Although there are plenty of scholarships geared to specific majors, backgrounds and schools, every college student should be able to ferret out a few that pertain […]
Top 5 Tips for College Scholarship Application Essays - Right now, scholarship applicants everywhere are tempted to tax their brains and wring out the perfect essay, which they will then show to 10 people who will transform the words into poetic prose that not only won’t resemble the original, but probably won’t resemble the writer. Don’t do it. Yes, it helps to have proofreaders, […]
Top 5 Ways You Will Change in College - Most high school graduates believe they have a pretty good grasp on who they are, what’s important to them and what beliefs they hold dear. But ask any college graduate, and he or she will tell you how much they changed while in school. In this case, change is a good thing! Here are some […]
Top 5 Tips for Finding College Scholarships - The struggle is real: Most students heading into the world of higher education are seriously worried about building up a bunch of debt while earning their degrees. It’s a well-founded fear for many people, as tuitions continue to rise across the nation. Fortunately, there are more resources than ever for students who are looking for […]
WOU in the News: Zach Ayers Finds His ‘Perfect Fit’ as Browns Scout - Football scouting is what Zach Ayers calls his “perfect fit” of a career. The South Albany High School graduate loves to travel, talking with and meeting new people and watching football. Ayers played soccer first as a youngster growing up in Albany, but he moved on to football in middle school when that was offered. […]
WOU in the News: New Venture in Philomath Offers an Opportunity to Unleash Creativity - During their formative years, Lori Paul and Chelsea Kirkaldie each had experiences that led to discovering their artistic selves. Family members and art teachers were among those early influences that instilled a love for creativity that continues to this day. With a nonprofit venture they’ve called MAXtivity now open in Philomath, they hope others will […]
Western Oregon University Selected to Host 2019 Men’s PacCoast Region Rugby Championship - The National Small College Rugby Organization (NSCRO) announced that Western Oregon University, located in Monmouth, OR, has been selected as the host of NSCRO’s 2019 Challenge Cup Pacific Coast Region Championship. The men’s 15s competition is scheduled for Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31, and will feature four teams including Western Oregon and Central […]
WOU in the News: Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union CEO Retires After 43 Years of Service - PALMER— Al Strawn stepped down from his position as CEO of the Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union in October. He is still figuring out what his retirement is going to look like in the coming years but he does know one thing — he enjoys having more time on his hands. “I’m discovering that I […]
Top 5 College-Related Things to do During Winter Break - The weeks from mid-December to New Years Day are a terrific time to knock out some of the tasks related to preparing for your college years. We’ve compiled this handy list of steps you can get done between sipping cocoa and watching movies, no matter where you are in the college-prep process. Just getting started […]
Jones named Elite 90 Award winner for NCAA Men’s Cross Country - PITTSBURGH, Pa.—Tyler Jones, a senior at Western Oregon University, is the recipient of the Elite 90 award for the 2018 NCAA Division II Men’s Cross Country Championship. Jones, majoring in mathematics, currently carries a 4.00 GPA. Jones was presented with the award during the championship festivities on Saturday. Jones qualified for the NCAA DII National […]
WOU Alum Strives for Stardom - Oregon City native Hailey Verhaalen ’15 left Western Oregon University with a degree in social science, and she said the concepts she learned during her coursework have proven invaluable. But she’s not working in social science at the moment. It seems her passion for music has taken her career path in a completely different direction. […]
Class Notes - 1950s Janice Kenison Cole ’59 is retired and living in McMinnville. She taught school for 30 years in Salem, Baker City, Dayton and McMinnville before retiring 17 years ago. 1960s The work of late artist Rick Bartow ’69 was featured during August and September at the Newport Visual Arts Center. The exhibition, From the Heart: […]
WOU education excellence doesn’t take summers off - Western Oregon University hosts a lot of groups, conferences and trainings during the summer each year. While most of the sidewalks are quiet, some corners of campus are hosting Zimbabwean cultural celebrations or American Sign Language trainings or high school wrestling camps. In nearly every case, the gatherings happening on campus are educational in nature, […]
A Special Thank You: Dr. Richard Woodcock - At the 2018 President’s Club Dinner in September, the Western Oregon University Foundation was honored to have Dr. Richard Woodcock in attendance. Woodcock, who is now in his 90s and lives in San Diego, has been a longtime benefactor of the university. This year, he gifted $1 million that will support underserved, diverse students who […]
Challenge Accepted - Ryanne (Huffman) Whitaker ’19 is a hometown girl, having graduated from Central High School and playing three years at second base for the Western Oregon Softball team. She said that, during high school, she didn’t see college in her future. Yet here she is, three years later and about to earn her degree in social […]
Morton Fundraiser Reaches, Surpasses Goal - In the spring 2018 edition of Western Edge, an article highlighted the efforts of a group of alums to raise money for the Jack Morton Memorial Lobby in the upcoming Welcome Center on campus. The group was just a few thousand dollars short of its $150,000 goal, which was established in honor of former Registrar […]
Long-time WOU Employees Choose Retirement - Every June, popular WOU faculty and staff members choose to hang up their higher education hats and retire to a life of relaxation, grandkids and travel. In June 2018, a special retirement option prompted several employees who had been at Western for decades—and who have had countless interactions with students—bowed out for retirement. Depending when […]
Designing for the Future - The Western Oregon University campus may be filled with stately brick buildings that seem as though they’ve been in place for decades—and in many cases, they have—but in truth, the 157 acres that comprise the grounds and buildings continue to evolve each year. Last year brought the opening of the new Student Health and Counseling […]
Western Oregon University Announces New Salem Presence in Partnership with WESD - Western Oregon University will begin offering classes in Salem beginning January 2019 at the Willamette Education Service District building on Pringle Road. The number of WOU offerings in Salem will increase gradually, with a much larger range of classes available starting fall term 2019. WOU:Salem courses are designed to help working adults get the higher […]
WOU in the News: Sirens sound change for ‘widows’ - By Audrey Caro, Polk County Itemizer-Observer MONMOUTH — The Susan B. Anthony Society for the Sisters of Gertrude Stein is meeting for their annual quiche breakfast at Western Oregon University — for the next couple of weeks. Set in 1956, “5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche” captures a moment in time between five women, who refer […]
Utah Transplant Putting Down Roots in Monmouth, WOU Advising Center - New Director of Student Success and Advising Niki Weight describes herself as a small-town girl, growing up, as she did, in tiny Driggs, Idaho. It’s one of the things that drew her to Monmouth and her new position at Western Oregon University. The move was a return to her town-size comfort zone after years living […]
WOU Honors Major University Benefactors at Annual Event - Western Oregon University celebrated scores of donors Sept. 21 at its annual President’s Club Dinner on the university campus. More than 125 people attended the event, which highlights donors who generously supported WOU with significant financial gifts in 2017-2018. Dr. Richard Woodcock, who made the largest single gift of $1 million, attended the dinner, which […]
Peace Corps Offers Life Skills, First Job After Graduation - Many Western Oregon University graduates have jobs lined up before they even leave campus. Others plan to go on to grad school or otherwise further their educations. A small group, however, chooses a different route; they enroll in the Peace Corps. The Peace Corps was created in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, and the […]
WOU in the News: Newland Retires from Smith Fine Arts Series - By Audrey Caro Polk County Itemizer-Observer MONMOUTH — Sandy Newland is retiring from Western Oregon University at the end of August, again. The first time was about four years ago. “I was manager of donor relations when I retired,” Newland said. “They asked me whether I would just consider doing part time in the Smith […]
Baumgartner Relinquishes Board Chair but Continues to Serve WOU - Jim Baumgartner ‘81, an attorney and Western Oregon University alum, just finished up a four-year stint as chairman of the Board of Trustees. His time on the board is not over, though, as he was also appointed to another four-year term as an at-large trustee. Baumgartner is proud of what the board has accomplished in […]
Supporting Students through Leadership Training and Advising - Associate Director of Student Engagement Megan Habermann was honored to win the 2018 Frank Harris Outstanding Student Government Advisor Award earlier this year from the National Association Campus Activities, and the kind words shared by her nominators went straight to her heart, she said. Former ASWOU Presidents Cynthia Olivares and Jessica Freeman wrote warm recommendations […]
WOU in the News: Monticello Park Debuts Fall Prevention and Memory Program for Public - Prestige Monticello Park senior care center in Longview is rolling out a new program for the public this month aimed at one of older adults’ biggest fears: falling. Studies indicate between 30 percent and 50 percent of elderly people fear falling, and it’s easy to understand why. The average hospital cost for a fall-related injury […]
Q&A with Retiring Bob Hautala, Associate Professor of Health and Exercise Science - Update 12/17/18: With heavy hearts, we report that Bob Hautala passed away from an accident a few days ago. We encourage you to comment on this post with your memories of beloved Dr. H. A memorial fund has also been set up in his honor with the WOU Foundation. If you’d like to give to […]
Q&A with Retiring Kevin Hughes, Landscape Maintenance Supervisor - Kevin Hughes could regularly be spotted out and about on campus as he took care of our beautiful grounds (or dressed in a suit using our school colors on Commencement day). He always offered a hello and warm smile to those he passed and has been a fixture on campus for decades. Hughes is among […]
Western Oregon University Welcomes Four New Trustees, Names Board Chair - Western Oregon University’s Board of Trustees will welcome several new members in coming weeks as terms expired and the governor made new appointments. In July, the governance panel will welcome Trustee Zellee Allen, the co-CEO and founder of Partnerships in Community Living in Monmouth. Allen earned his bachelor’s degree at WOU in 1993 and won […]
Staff Excellence Award: Jeanie Stuntzner - The Mario and Alma Pastega Sta Excellence Award honors a classified or administrative staff member who demonstrates exceptional service to the university. Once nominees are received, a screening committee submits a list of finalists to the president, who then chooses the recipient. Creative Arts Facilities and Program Coordinator Jeanie Stuntzner insists that she uses her […]
Excellence in Scholarship Award: Dr. Marie LeJeune - The Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship honors a full-time faculty member who demonstrates outstanding creative or scholarly accomplishments. Once nominees are received, the Honors Committee votes by secret ballot on whether there will be a recipient that year, and if so, who the recipient will be. The bookshelves, tables and chairs […]
Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Peter Callero - The Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching honors a full-time faculty member who demonstrates excellence in teaching and relationships with students, both in and out of the classroom. Once nominees are received, a screening committee submits a list of finalists to the president, who then chooses the recipient. When sociology Professor Peter […]
Golden Lamp Award: Janine Egan ’18 - From the OHSU School of Nursing, Monmouth Campus, the Golden Lamp Award is based on the American Nurses Association Code for Professional Nurses and the Florence Nightingale Pledge. It is given in recognition of exemplary demonstration of scholarship, leadership, professional commitment, innovative contributions and humanitarian ideals. OHSU School of Nursing’s Golden Lamp Award winner Janine […]
Outstanding Graduate Student Award: Alissa McAlpine ’18 - The Outstanding Graduate Student Award honors a student who has demonstrated superior achievements in scholarship and academics, character, leadership and initiative during graduate studies. Last year at this time, Alissa McAlpine was in this same place: at Western Oregon University’s Commencement on a June afternoon. Then, she was gathering her undergraduate degree, a Bachelor of […]
Julia McCulloch Smith Award: Sara A. Madden ’18 - The Julia McCulloch Smith Award is presented to the outstanding female student of the year in the memory of Smith, alumna of the class of 1895, who died in 1930. e award was first presented in 1931. When this year’s Julia McCulloch Smith Award winner for outstanding female graduate, Sara Madden ’18, says she “didn’t […]
Delmer Dewey Award: Carter Craig ’18 - The Delmer Dewey Award, presented each year to the outstanding male student, is named for former Dean of Men Delmer Dewey, who died in 1953. The award was first presented in 1954. Like many Western Oregon University graduates, Delmer Dewey Award winner Carter Craig ’18 touts the university’s welcoming nature. For the outstanding male graduate […]
Alumni Award of Excellence: Lynn Hamersly ’64 - The Alumni Award of Excellence is awarded each year to an alum (living or deceased) for his or her contributions and services to the university and community as well as for his or her distinguished professional work. Lynn Hamersly’s dedication to Western Oregon University—known as Oregon College of Education when she attended—was a positive in […]
Grad Profile: Roger Deleon - Graduating senior Roger Deleon, from Beaverton, book-ended his college experience at WOU. He started out at WOU in 2010 for two years, then transitioned to community college where he earned two associate’s from Portland Community College, before returning to WOU in fall 2016. Why did you choose WOU? It was cheaper than other schools I […]
Grad Profile: Javier Garcia - First-generation student Javier Garcia, from Newberg, plans to work in sports marketing now that he’s completed his bachelor’s in Business with a minor in Sports Leadership. Why did you choose WOU? I lost my little brother in a car accident during my senior year of high school. I really didn’t think about college after that […]
Grad Profile: Brittany Johnson - Portland native Brittany Johnson, a first-generation Math major with a Math Education minor, is making a big leap after graduation – she’s heading to Nebraska for a Ph.D.! Why did you choose WOU? I was originally an education major, and I knew that WOU was the best placed to be for that. I also wanted […]
Grad Profile: Louann Casares - If you asked first-generation student Louann Casares how long it took to complete her bachelor’s in Business Administration and minor in Humanities, she would tell you her freshman year took 24 years and the rest took three. She transferred to WOU from Linn-Benton Community College with credits she earned between 1991 and 2015 and completed […]
Grad Profile: Efrain Quevedo-Ramos - First-generation student Efrain Quevedo-Ramos tried a couple of colleges, but found his best fit was close to his home of Dallas, Ore. He’s graduating with a bachelor’s in Business and a minor in Communications. Congratulations, Efrain! Why did you choose WOU? Smaller campus, great atmosphere, and closer to home. What do you love most about […]
Grad Profile: Barbara Ettenauer - Not only has Barbara Ettenauer, from Vienna, Austria, completed a master’s in Special Education – she did so in her second language. What do you love most about WOU? I love the beautiful green lawns on campus, the very old sequoia and the library. Why did you choose WOU? My husband is a professor of […]
Grad Profile: Brenda Flores - First-generation student Brenda Flores, from Stanfield, Ore., developed her interest in advocacy and social change during her time on campus. She earned a double degree in Spanish and Public Policy and Administration, with a minor in Communications. What a combination! What do you love most about WOU? I love how small the classes are because […]
Grad Profile: Sophia Dykast - First-generation student Sophia Dykast, from Albany, managed to complete her bachelor’s in Public Policy and Administration (with a minor in History) in only three years. What an accomplishment! Why did you choose WOU? WOU has a beautiful campus, small class sizes, offered scholarships, and most importantly, had the exact major I wanted. What do you […]
Grad Profile: Whitney Gilman - Congratulations to Whitney Gilman, of Salem, for completing her bachelor’s degree in Business with a minor in American Sign Language! Gilman transferred to WOU from Chemeketa Community College and is the first in her family to graduate from college. Why did you choose WOU? I chose to attend WOU because it is close to home […]
Grad Profile: Cody Welty - Cody Welty, from Boring, Ore. (yup, he says it’s a real place), is graduating with a bachelor’s in psychology and a minor in biology. He’s found a great balance of activities and coursework to set him up for an exciting future. Why did you choose WOU? The moment I stepped on the campus, I knew […]
Grad Profile: Cynthia Olivares - With grad school on the horizon, Cynthia Olivares, from King City, is just cooling down from a busy and wild undergraduate career that involved student government, Green Dot, planning events and discovering her potential for leadership. We chatted with Olivares all about her time at WOU. What was your Major? Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus […]
Grad Profile: Lila Gardner - We congratulate Lila Gardner class of 2018! A first-generation student from Beaverton, Gardner will be getting her degree in Gerontology with a minor in Human Biology. Why did you choose WOU? For a multitude of reasons. It was affordable, the promise of small class sizes, my partner was studying here, it wasn’t too far from […]
Grad Profile: Jessica McCutchen - A prolific composer and musician, those in the Music department know first-generation student Jessica McCutchen, from Springfield, for her dedicated work ethic and her impact on the WOU music community. We talked to McCutchen about her passion for music, her time as an RA, and the best spot on campus to enjoy a good book. […]
Grad Profile: Elisa Moore - We congratulate Elisa Moore class of 2018! From Days Creek, Ore., Moore will be graduating with a bachelor’s in Gerontology and a minor in Health. Moore is a first-generation student that transferred to Western from Umpqua Community College. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because it is the only university in Oregon that […]
Grad Profile: Emily Carlston - Emily is a first-generation graduating senior from Gladstone, Oregon, who is earning her bachelor’s in Earth Science, minor in Psychology, and a Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Certificate. She has worked for the Newsflash student social media team in Strategic Communications and Marketing for over two years, and has held a position as box office attendant […]
Grad Profile: Frank Calzada III - WOU intramural fans and players may know referee and supervisor, Frank Calzada, well. Now gearing up for a graduate assistantship in sports management with Indiana State University, Calzada came in to chat about his experiences at WOU before graduation. Thanks once again for meeting with me! What’s your home town? I’m from Santa Rosa, California. […]
Grad Profile: April Mathews - We congratulate April Mathews class of 2018! As a first-generation student, Mathews will be graduating with a degree in Gerontology. She transferred from Chemeketa Community college and is part of Sigma Phi Omega International Academic Honor & Professional Society in Gerontology. She chose WOU because of it’s proximity and appealing price. What do you love […]
Grad Profile: Ashley Chambers - We chatted with Ashley Chambers, a first-generation Early Childhood Education major from Grants Pass (who’s also earning an English Speakers of Other Languages/Bilingual endorsement). Along with sharing her experiences as a Hamersly Library employee, we talked all about her grad school plans, her favorite spots on campus, and the time she accidentally walked into a […]
Grad Profile: Aaron Orr - We congratulate Aaron Orr class of 2018! From Forest Grove, Orr will be graduating with an major in Earth Science, a double minor in Chemistry and Music, and a certificate in Geographic Information Systems. Aaron is not the first in his family to get a degree, as his father feature graduated from University of California-Riverside. […]
Grad Profile: Ann Marie “Poka” Matagi - Through her time with Kappa Delta Chi, the Multicultural Center, and the Alternative Break program, Ann Marie (nicknamed Poka) has been a fixture on campus since coming to WOU. We chatted with Matagi about her biggest campus inspirations, her experiences traveling to Honduras and Costa Rica, and much more. Matagi, a first-generation student from Medford, is […]
Grad Profile: Emily Pahlke - Emily Pahlke, from Clackamas, Ore. is currently working and studying at Western at the same time. She will be graduating with a Master of Science in Education degree with a focus in Informational Technology as well as an Instructional Design Certificate. Currently she is working in the Richard Woodcock Education Center, advising undergraduate education students […]
161st Commencement Address by Senator Jackie Winters - This year’s Commencement speaker has been a strong advocate in the state Legislature for Western Oregon University as well as for the surrounding the communities of Monmouth and Independence. Senator Jackie Winters represents Senate District 10, an area that includes Monmouth and Independence as well as a large portion of Salem. She was rst elected […]
WOU to Welcome More Than 1,000 Grads at Commencement - 
Western Oregon University Slates $1 million Woodcock Donation to Benefit STEM Students - 
An Adaptation of Les Vampires; Opening This Week - Why Cross Chaos is a devised work based off the early 1900s silent serial film Les Vampires. The french film, by Louis Feuillade, is a comedy-thriller and portrays the inner workings of Paris Gangs. While guest director, Jessica Wallenfels did guide the group, the actors all had a part in creating the script. This lead […]
Spanish Professor Supports WOU Near and Far - Associate Professor of Spanish Linguistics Patricia Giménez-Eguíbar does a decent amount of traveling for work and pleasure, and two of her trips in the past year have been to conferences where she was representing Western Oregon University as keynote speaker. Giménez-Eguíbar teaches Introduction to Spanish Linguistics, Spanish Pronunciation and Phonetics, Spanish for Heritage Speakers and […]
Decorating Your Dorm - You’re in your dorm, fresh and ready for the year that’s coming. But there’s something missing from the room. The dorm is bland, grey, and you’ve got to figure out exactly how to live with your new roommate while bringing some pizzaz to your dorm. So, why not hit two birds with one stone and […]
A WOU Student’s Experience Helping Organize the Independence-Monmouth Community Clean-Up - The Independence-Monmouth Community Clean-Up, held annually, is an opportunity for local residents to clear their homes of debris. It’s also a chance for the community to come together and help beautify Independence and Monmouth by picking up trash and clearing park trails. For my class, it was something of a trial by fire. As part […]
T.H. Gentle Professorship Goes to Dr. Gay Timken - On Thursday, May 17, Physical Education Teacher Education Professor Gay Timken was announced as the 2018-2019 T.H. Gentle Professor. Timken, who has been on the faculty at Western Oregon University for 15 years, will take over the professorship from Deaf Studies and Professional Studies Professor Elisa Maroney, who held the post during the previous academic […]
What Is a Bullet Journal - As someone who is nearing completion of my fourth year of college, I have to say that the bullet journal (bujo) has been an vital addition to my life. A bullet journal, in its essence, is a way to manage life’s tasks and organize everything that you need to get done. The original bullet journal […]
Last Light: A Spring Dance Concert Piece - Inspiration comes from anywhere, for the piece the Last Light, by student choreographer Andrew De La Paz explained he had two muses: the way light refracts through different mediums and the poem by Dylan Thomas, Do Not Go Gentle into that Good Night. By incorporating these two vastly different influences, De La Paz hoped to […]
Reading for Fun in College - When the term starts and the wave of reading for classes comes, it is hard to pick up a book to read for fun. Between time management, personal motivation, and prioritizing, reading for personal benefit typically takes the back burner. After taking Young Adult Literature during Winter 2018, I’ve collected some ideas and tips for […]
WOU in the World - One of the priorities for Western Oregon University is high-impact learning opportunities. The university strives to give students the chance to get hands-on experience in their fields before graduation. In some cases, that means internships and practicums. In others, that means students volunteer in local or national communities to support residents while building life skills. […]
Around Campus - Veterans Services Earns Recognition, Grants WOU Veterans Support Services had a terrific winter, earning several accolades from multiple agencies. Most importantly, the WOU chapter of Student Veterans of America (SVA) won the Chapter of the Year award from among 1,300 SVA chapters nationwide. Student Shane Follett is the president of the campus SVA chapter. “Shane […]
New to WOU - Q&A with Leanne Merrill Assistant Math Professor Leanne Merrill, 29, joined the Western Oregon University faculty in September, just weeks after defending her doctoral thesis and, oh, yeah, getting married. The upstate New York native may be young, but she has an interesting story that illustrates the importance of challenging oneself and keeping an eye […]
Surrounded by Old Friends - Tree Campus Designation Highlights Thoughtful Beauty For many decades, the Western Oregon University campus has been known for its beauty, most notably tree-lined Monmouth Avenue, the signature giant sequoia and the grand, mature specimens in The Grove. That beauty doesn’t come without a lot of work, mainly from the persistent and thoughtful members of the […]
Collaboration for Commemoration - Friends Expand Jack Morton Legacy Jack and Mary Morton were fixtures on the Oregon College of Education campus from 1955 to 1981. Jack Morton was first the registrar and then dean of students. Mary raised their two children and worked for adult and child service agencies. But they were best known for their hospitality. The […]
Q&A with Early Childhood Education Student Miaja Lopez - Miaja Lopez ’18, from Lakeport, Calif., just finished her Early Childhood Education degree this past winter term and is already teaching in Willamina. We had the chance to chat with her recently about her time at WOU. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU after looking at many different schools. I loved how close […]
Q&A with Early Childhood Education Student Yadira Diaz-Rodriguez - Senior Yadira Diaz-Rodriguez, from Independence, is a mere two months from completing her Early Childhood Education degree. She took some time to tell us about her experience in the program. Why did you choose WOU? I chose to attend Western Oregon University after finishing a transfer degree from Chemeketa Community College and deciding I wanted […]
A Swarm of Bikes-for-Rent Join Campus Just in Time for Spring - Starting this week, the Western Oregon University campus community will being seeing orange and wheels. About 100 orange, dockless bikes will appear on campus streets, available for use by anyone who has downloaded the app provided by Spin (search “Spin bike” in your app store), the company that supplies the bikes. With an .edu email […]
Tim Cook is selected as the next leader of Clackamas Community College in Oregon City - Tim Cook will serve as the next president of Clackamas Community College after the school’s current leader Joanne Truesdell retires this summer after more than a decade with CCC. Cook is the vice president of instruction at Clark College in Washington. He will join Clackamas Community College on Sunday, July 1. Jane Reid, CCC Board […]
Q&A with History Student Andrew Dobrowolski - Where are you from? I am originally from Layton, Utah but I currently live in Hillsboro, Oregon. Why did you choose WOU? I chose Western because it was recommend to me bey several of my dad’s employees who graduated from Western as well. I also took a tour before I decided to come to Western […]
Q&A with History Student Brant Cheeley - Student Brant Cheeley talks about his experience in our History program for this week in We are WOU: Academics. This Donald (now Salem) resident hopes to graduate in spring 2019. Why did you choose WOU? WOU felt like home when I visited for the first time during the SOAR program for new students. I liked […]
Southern California Police Department Seeks Recruits at WOU - Representatives from the El Segundo Police Department in Southern California visited campus this week in their first out-of-state recruiting trip. They have high hopes for the outcome after taking with Western Oregon University students, many of whom are in the criminal justice program. “We’ve had a great experience,” said Sergeant Ed Villarreal. “We’re meeting a […]
WOU in the news: WOU heading into March Madness - 
Q&A with Criminal Justice Student Ryan Painter - Criminal Justice graduate student Ryan Painter ’17, from Roseburg, Ore., talked to us about his experience at WOU and in our Criminal Justice graduate program. Painter is focused on law enforcement and is particularly interested in working at the federal level. Why did you choose WOU? I chose WOU because of its incredible reputation for […]
WOU in the news: At Western Oregon, a hometown star is key to NCAA’s - MONMOUTH — The best basketball team you don’t know about is led by a player who, except for a series of fortuitous events, almost never arrived on campus. It took a snub, a cross-country trip, a hurt knee, and a connection going back to a spring break trip in the 1980s to lead Tanner Omlid […]
Q&A with Criminal Justice Student Taylor Winder - Taylor Winder ’18, a Criminal Justice student from Wheeler, Ore. chose WOU after attending Criminal Justice Day during her junior year of high school. “I really liked the layout of the campus, the smaller class sizes, and knowing that I would be able to contact my professors easier than I would if I attended a […]
The Best Little Auditorium in Monmouth - The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas was not a place of fiction, it indeed existed under the name of Chicken Ranch. The prostitution started in the great depression as a way for the farm to survive, trading services for goods, eventually leading to the excess of chickens thus giving the 12 acre farm its name. […]
Q&A with Eric Frey, a Soldier, Scholar, Veteran, and Artist - Eric Frey ’19 describes himself as soldier, scholar, veteran and artist. So much so, in fact, that those four adjectives form the title of his latest art exhibition, which opened Feb. 19 in the Werner University Center and runs through March 4. Frey served more than 20 years in the Army before retiring from the […]
Western Oregon University’s Cannon Gallery of Art Showcases Salem Artist David George Andersen - Western Oregon University’s Cannon Gallery of Art in Campbell Hall will present David George Andersen’s Wish You Were Here beginning Feb. 21. The exhibit opens to the public with a reception from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 21 and will be on display through March 23. Andersen (1960-2017) was a Salem artist known for creating politically […]
WOU Alum Travels the World but Comes Full Circle - Oregon College of Education (OCE) alum Dwight Triplett ’66 is the embodiment of what can happen when you take life’s opportunities as they come. Even today, Triplett embraces the idea that taking chances and saying “yes” can lead you to places you never imagined. For him, that place was Asia, which was a long way […]
English Faculty Garner Literary Award, Recognition - Two members of Western Oregon University’s English department faculty have recently earned national recognition from prestigious literary journals. Professor Henry Hughes won the 2017 Oberon Poetry Prize from the journal Oberon Poetry. The New York-based journal runs the annual contest to highlight the best unpublished poem from among hundreds of submissions. Hughes’ winning poem, Fish […]
WOU in the news: For level, Western Oregon football outperforms Ducks, Beavers with 2018 in-state recruiting - Who deserves the in-state recruiting championship belt? The Oregon Ducks? They signed just one of seven in-state four-star prospects in the class of 2018, missing out on elite athletes Talanoa Hufanga, Chase Cota, Braden Lenzy, Trey Lowe, Eli’Jah Winston and Draco Bynum. The Oregon State Beavers? They failed to sign a top-nine prospect in the state, according […]
Western Oregon University Theatre Department to Present “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” - Western Oregon University’s Theatre Department will be presenting the classic musical The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas on March 1-4 and March 7-10. The musical, first performed on Broadway in 1978, is based on a book of the same name by Larry King and Peter Masterson. Much of the music and lyrics, created by Carol […]
Theatre Department to Stage The Watson Intelligence - The time-jumping play The (curious case of the) Watson Intelligence by Madeleine George will come to Western Oregon University’s Black Box Studio stage Feb. 8-10. The piece, which was a finalist for the 2014 Pulitzer Prize in Drama, will be directed by student Matthew Miller ’18. The (curious case of the) Watson Intelligence takes a […]
Western Oregon University Announces Sen. Jackie Winters will be Commencement Speaker - We look forward to welcoming Oregon Sen. Jackie Winters to the stage June 16, 2018, as the Commencement speaker. The Republican senator represents District 10 in the state Legislature, an area that includes Monmouth and Independence as well as a large portion of Salem. She was first elected to the Senate in 2002 and had […]
Q&A with information technology student Benjamin Kahn - This week, we’re featuring the Information Technology (“info tech”) master’s program for We are WOU: Academics. We’d had a chat with a current student in the program about his experience. Meet Benjamin Kahn ’19 from Seattle who’s currently living and working in Portland as an instructional technologist at the University of Portland. Kahn Why did […]
iLumiDance Tour Melds Dance, Computer Science to Benefit Children - Western Oregon University Dance Professor Darryl Thomas’ latest touring project, in addition to his well-known Rainbow Dance Theatre, has an innovative and ambitious mission: inspiring young children to explore computer coding. Since 2013, Thomas and a troupe have been presenting iLumiDance to schoolchildren visiting WOU. The program focuses on dancers who are wearing black suits […]
WOU in the news: Timing’s right for friends to open driving school - Duane Nault remembers when his son, Brian, needed to take driver’s education classes, it seemed like there was always a wait list at Shelton High School. When it came time for Nault to contemplate a career change, he turned to his newly retired friend, Ted Drogmund, about embarking on an idea he’d bounced around for […]
WOU in the news: CEI names president - IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK) – The College of Eastern Idaho has named Rick Aman as president. More than 46 candidates were interviewed after a national search since the community college was changed from a technical college. Aman was one of four finalists named on November 27th. He was the Interim President of the College of Eastern Idaho. He […]
WOU in the news: Holidays with the Trail Band - The NW Natural Holidays with the Trail Band concert series benefitting Friends of the Children returns to the Aladdin Theater! This is a unique event that attracts music lovers throughout Oregon. The band’s selection of classical and modern holiday music will get you into the holiday spirit. See for yourself why so many people make […]
12 local events to honor Martin Luther King Jr. - April 4 marks 50 years since the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. But, before that, the third Monday of January is dedicated to honoring the memory and contributions of the civil rights and religious leader. This year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on his birthday, Jan. 15. It’s not just a day off. Local businesses, […]
WOU in the news: College hosts keynote scholar - The community is invited to hear Portland scholar and activist Walidah Imarisha speak at Western Oregon University for their annual Martin Luther King Jr. commemorative dinner on the school’s campus in Monmouth on Wednesday, Jan. 17 at 6 p.m. “We chose Walidah Imarisha because of her scholarship and background,” said Emmanuel Macias, educational advisor for […]
Four Days of Events Honor MLK Jr.’s Memory, Mission - Several of Western Oregon University’s diversity-related groups will present activities surrounding the observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day from Jan. 15 to Jan. 18. The biggest event of the 10th annual Celebration Week will be the dinner Wednesday, which will feature keynote speaker Walidah Imarisha, an educator, writer, public scholar and spoken-word artist. […]
Western Oregon University Chapter Named National Student Veteran Chapter of the Year - Western Oregon University’s Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter won the Chapter of the Year award Jan. 6, 2018, at the organization’s national conference in San Antonio. Student Veterans of America is a national organization based in Washington, D.C., that is committed to veteran welfare and ensuring that today’s and tomorrow’s veterans are supported in […]
WOU in the news: Local high schools students get jump start on college - Some students worry they can’t afford college. Others think it will be too hard. Many aren’t sure if they’re really that interested in the classes. The partnership between local high schools and Western Oregon University is designed to quell those doubts by giving students an introduction to college in a low-cost, familiar atmosphere. Willamette Promise […]
WOU Students Support TEDx Salem Event, Mission - The TED Conference motto is “Ideas Worth Spreading,” and Saturday at the Salem Convention Center, more than a dozen Western Oregon University students will help advance that mission. For the second year, seniors in WOU’s Interpreting Studies program will get valuable, real-world American Sign Language interpreting experience as they share the stage with presenters at […]
WOU in the news: Aurora Colony Historical Society welcomes new face - The Aurora Colony Historical Society relies on a passionate group of volunteers and to help manage the resource, the ACHS board recently filled a newly created position. Beth Fleisher was recently hired to focus on recruiting and maintaining the volunteers that help make so much of what ACHS do. Beth Fleisher was recently brought on […]
WOU in the news: Local college students visit MHS classes - Eighteen Madras High School graduates, who are now attending college, visited MHS guide room classes to talk to juniors and seniors about their experiences and share advice on Dec. 20. That morning, the college kids gathered in the library, where they enjoyed catching up with each other and teachers before heading out to classrooms. One […]
WOU in the news: Buhler describes artistic ‘celebration of creation’ - Gary Buhler has been a well-known name in the local art scene for three decades, particularly as one of the first participants in the popular monthly Art Walk events. But Buhler’s artistic connection to the Newberg area dates all the way back to his childhood. GARY ALLEN – College Street, which he occasionally opens as […]
Feature: WOU Students Explore Globe with Study Abroad Program - When Study Abroad Advisor Akaanchya Pradhan first meets with a student to discuss options for studying in another country, she usually doesn’t know what to expect. Some students have used the program’s online tool to narrow down their options, while others don’t know anything about studying abroad and all its ramifications. Pradhan said she generally […]
Business Leader Gayle Evans Joins Western Oregon University Board of Trustees - The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees welcomes Gayle Evans, the chief human resources officer at Unitus Community Credit Union, to the governance group. The Oregon Senate confirmed Evans on Nov. 15, 2017. Evans has been with Unitus for 10 years and has served on multiple boards of directors in the past, including for Trillium […]
WOU Master’s Degree from Home? Yes, Please! - If the idea of attending grad school classes at home while wearing pajamas is appealing, read on. Western Oregon University offers several online master’s degree programs that can completed on students’ own timeline and in the comfort of their own home. The dress code is up to them. One of WOU’s most popular online grad […]
WOU in the news: Concert band sets Christmas concert for Dec. 16 - The Willamette Valley Concert Band is gearing up for its annual free Christmas concert. The 60-minute performance will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at Linn-Benton Community College’s Russell Tripp Performance Center, 6500 Pacific Blvd. SW, just south of Albany. Featuring a variety of old and newer Christmas music, the concert will open with […]
WOU in the news: Coach Matuszak has baseball down to a science - Varsity baseball head coach Matthew Matuszak has the game down to a science, literally. A groundskeeper for the San Francisco Giants, he tends fields for a living, although he considers it a hobby. His unique approach is a welcomed change in the formula for success for a team now on their fourth coach in four […]
Feature: WUE Program a Boon for WOU Student Population - Western Oregon University has been an active member of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) for more than a decade, but Director of Admissions Rob Findtner still meets students who are unfamiliar with WICHE’s most popular program, the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE). “You can never assume that people know,” said Findtner, who, like […]
WOU in the news: CHS seniors snag acceptance letters during College Application Week - Last month Colton High School participated in Oregon’s statewide College Application Week. The program assists students in preparing for and applying to colleges. The goal of the week-long event was to help all CHS seniors apply for some type of post high school education including certificate programs, two-year degree programs and four-year programs. “Oregon College […]
Feature: Student Projects Demonstrate Change Is Possible - Politics, Policy and Administration Professor Mary Pettenger wants students to know they can make a difference in their worlds. That’s why she considers her Political Science 355 course to be one of her favorites. The class, Civic Literacy and Engagement, has several components, from proposal writing and project management to media literacy and effective communication. […]
Fall 2017: Dead Week and Finals Week Events - Don’t go stir-crazy from studying. A little fun goes a long way. Check out these campus events happening next week and finals week to unwind and de-stress. Monday, Nov. 27 Dead Week Carne Asada WUC Willamette Room at 12:00 p.m. Free Vent Stations WUC Summit at 12:00 p.m. Free Orquestra Brasil Farewell Concert with the […]
Feature: Board Member a Staunch Advocate for University - Western Oregon University Board of Trustees member Jaime Arredondo is not a WOU alumnus, but you’d never know that from talking to him. His advocacy for the university is strong enough to qualify him as an honorary Wolf, and besides, he’s surrounded by family members who walked across the stage at McArthur Field. Arredondo actually […]
WOU in the news: Former outlaw keeps rolling - Enterprise alum and current Western Oregon University cross country and track and field standout David Ribich continues to gather accolades. Last winter, Ribich was part of a record-setting national championship run in the distance medley relay in the National Collegiate AthleticAssociation Division II indoor track and field championships. In the spring, he claimed the outdoor […]
News Release: Western Oregon University Enrollment Shows Uptick in Transfers, Strong Diversity - Western Oregon University has released official enrollment figures for fall 2017, and highlights include a higher-than modeled enrollment number and a strong showing in diverse populations. As a reflection of consistent declines in the number of high school graduates in Oregon, WOU’s spring enrollment projections had modeled a drop in enrollment of up to 5 […]
WOU in the news: Finalists announced for President of College of Eastern Idaho - IDAHO FALLS, ID — The College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that we have selected four finalists for the presidency of CEI. We recruited a highly competitive and strong pool of candidates from throughout the state, region and nation. Your contribution to CEI’s many accomplishments was instrumental in attracting […]
Feature: Focus on Transfer Students a Reflection of Goals - We are currently highlighting services that are tailored to three specific audiences: nontraditional students (Nov. 4), veterans (Nov. 9) and transfer students (today). There is a lot of overlap within these three groups, of course, so readers may qualify for multiple resources. In cooperation with several area community colleges and in accordance with the new […]
Feature: WOU Services for Veterans Indicate University Support - We are currently highlighting services that are tailored to three specific audiences: nontraditional students (Nov. 1), veterans (today) and transfer students (Nov. 15). There is a lot of overlap within these three groups, of course, so readers may qualify for multiple resources. According to Veterans Services Coordinator Andrew Holbert, student-veterans constitute about 4 percent of […]
WOU in the news: Organ donation ‘is about life, not death’ - Kelli Little graduated from high school at 16 and attended Western Oregon University. She bounced from pre-dental to business to pre-nursing, until she took a contemporary health issues class that changed her life. “I immediately changed my major to community health education,” Little said. “I knew this was my calling, and I’ve never looked back.” […]
Feature: WOU Services Provide Support for Non-Traditional Students - For the next three weeks, we will be highlighting services that are tailored to three specific audiences: nontraditional students (today), veterans (Nov. 9) and transfer students (Nov. 15). There is a lot of overlap within these three groups, of course, so readers may qualify for multiple resources. The official Western Oregon University definition of a […]
Wolves Go Hunting for Some Fun: Community Events in Independence and Monmouth - Wanting to get involved in your community? Need to get out of the house? Don’t want to miss out on opportunities? Here are some events in the local community to get you started. Volunteer Rotary Club Weekly on Thursdays 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM First Baptist Church 1505 Monmouth Street Independence, OR 97351 Lions Club […]
Halloween at WOU: Your Guide to Campus Frights - In just a matter of days, the night air will be thick with the screeches of sugar-hyped kids and freshmen high-tailing it down Monmouth Avenue. Even now, jack-o-lanterns perch on porches, where they’ll sit until mid-November. It’s Halloween, y’all. The big question is, how do we celebrate Hallows’ Eve here at WOU? Consider this your […]
Swanson serving residency at Mountain View Clinic in Enterprise - Dr. Dallas Swanson, a resident with Oregon Health Sciences University’s Cascade East campus in Klamath Falls, will be serving at Mountain View Medical Clinic Oct. 25 to Nov. 26 as part of the OHSU Rural Residency Program. Dr. Swanson has ties to Wallowa County, having lived here as a child before his family moved to […]
NEWS RELEASE: Western Oregon University Board of Trustees Approves Academic Programs, Considers Master Plan - MONMOUTH, Ore. – The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees on Wednesday addressed multiple agenda items, including proposed changes to academic programs and a master plan presented by university President Rex Fuller. Two academic program changes were approved by the board and now move to the Higher Education Coordinating Commission and the Northwest Commission for […]
Feature: Outdoor Program Connects Students with Oregon’s Beauty - It’s no secret that one of the biggest Western Oregon University selling points is its location. From its vantage point in the Mid-Willamette Valley, WOU is primed to dispatch students to day trips on the sandy beach shore, up snow-capped mountains or into lush forests with minimal travel time. The WOU Outdoors Program, as part […]
WOU in the news: Clatskanie native, Yamhill sheriff honored for mental health service - A Clatskanie local who became the sheriff in Yahmhill County was recently honored for his commitment to mental health training. The 7th Annual Northwest Regional Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) Conference was recently held with the goal of drawing awareness to techniques for dealing with people in a vulnerable state of mental health. As part of […]
Feature: Entrepreneurship Minor a Popular Resource for Innovative Students - As the work force moves farther way from the traditional format—think employees who spend 10+ years at a company—to the modern affinity for a new job every few years, Western Oregon University’s Business program is ready for the change. Case in point: the entrepreneurship minor, which allows students, both current and incoming, to chart a […]
Feature: Academic Advising and Learning Center Tutors Poised for Fall Term - Western Oregon University is highly invested in student success, and as such, it offers a wide variety of free tutoring assistance for enrollees. However, many students aren’t familiar with the full breadth of options for getting help with different subjects, and that’s something the Academic Advising and Learning Center (soon to be Student Success and […]
WOU in the news: Oregon City Police Department’s Mike Day tackling homelessness - Mike Day grew up on the poverty line with his single mom and occasionally was homeless, living for a time at a family friend’s house. Now as the Oregon City Police Department’s new homeless liaison officer, Day is responsible for all of the locals who have lost their homes or who are in danger of […]
Feature: ASWOU President Believes It’s Never too Late to Get Involved - A student’s first few terms at a four-year university can get a little hectic. Jessica Freeman ’18 gets it. But the Associated Students of Western Oregon University (ASWOU) president said that getting involved in a club or organization can make a world of difference for students acclimating to their new environment. While students may worry […]
One night only – “Blindside” - The Incidental Fees Committee does a large variety of things around campus including bringing in a guest artist once a year. This year they have brought in the magnificent Stephanie Morin-Robert to perform her show Blindside. Due to a type cancer called retinoblastoma, she lost her left eye when she was only two years of […]
Feature: Financial Aid Counselors Help Students Understand Assistance - Financial Aid is the most popular office in the Western Oregon University Lieuallen Administration building this week, with students lining up to talk with counselors about their aid packets and to hammer out lingering details. The office staff is primed to help students as efficiently as possible. On Monday alone, the group served 104 students […]
Feature: New Dean Brings Vision of Collaboration to College of Liberal Arts and Sciences - The new dean of the Western Oregon University College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Kathleen Cassity, arrived on campus Aug. 15, and while the move into her office in Bellamy Hall went pretty smoothly, the same cannot be said for the transition into her new home in south Salem. Cassity most recently was the assistant […]
WOU in the news: Winter Parker Accepted into Prestigious Program - Hunting down that perfect school is, more often than not, treacherous. Other times, it just falls right into your mailbox. That’s how it all started for former Winter Park resident Trevor Brown, who found his path with the arrival of a simple flyer he received from the American Museum of Natural History in New York […]
Feature: Service Learning and Career Development Helps Students Prepare for Future - For Western Oregon University students looking for an on-campus job, a work study position, a spring break adventure or a professional mentor, all the answers can be found in a single place: The Service Learning and Career Development (SLCD) office in the Werner University Center. The office, led by Director Adry Clark along with Assistant […]
WOU in the news: New Teacher is Reinvigorating the Art Program - COOS BAY – In the art room at Marshfield High School, cabinets are filled with dusty remnants from discontinued jewelry and photography classes. When art teacher Heidi Ositis took the job, she didn’t realize she was walking into a dying program. Now she is bringing it back to life, leading six packed classes. Some of […]
Feature: New Director Wrangles Data in Office of Institutional Research and Effectiveness - The concept of institutional research (IR) is by no means a new one. But the creation of the Institutional Research and Effectiveness office is a first for Western Oregon University, which until independence in 2015 had relied on the Oregon University System (OUS) for help with statistical reporting. Abdus Shahid was the OUS analyst who […]
WOU in the news: New Principals at Elementary Schools - Two Keizer elementary schools will have new principals when the 2017-18 year begins on Wednesday, Sept. 6—Christine Bowlby at Keizer Elementary and Stacey Lund at Weddle Elementary. Bowlby is transferring from Washington Elementary, where she was principal for the last five years, but she already calls Keizer home. Her oldest son will be a seventh […]
WOU in the news: New Glenwood Resource Center Superintendent Appointed - DES MOINES, Iowa (KCRG-TV9) — Iowa Department of Human Services Director Jerry R. Foxhoven announced on September 1 that he has appointed Jerry A. Rea as superintendent of the Glenwood Resource Center. Iowa has two resource centers that provide a full range of active treatment and habilitation services to individuals with severe intellectual disabilities. The resource […]
Feature: Student Health and Counseling Center Prepares for Grand Opening - The new Western Oregon University Student Health and Counseling Center has been serving students since June, but it won’t have its official grand opening until Oct. 2. When it does, and attendees get a chance to tour the interior, those familiar with the old SHCC will be impressed by the improvements the new building offers. […]
WOU in the news: Pack on the Hunt - MONMOUTH — Western Oregon University’s football team is coming off an uneven 2016 season. But with a solid core of returning players, the Wolves may be ready to challenge the Great Northwest Athletic Conference’s top teams — if questions at key positions are answered quickly. On offense, WOU returns eight starters. The Wolves will look […]
Feature: Eclipse Brings Hundreds of Visitors to Campus - Last weekend, Western Oregon University hosted well more than 1,500 visitors to campus, a mix of alumni, community members, first-time visitors and groups from around the Pacific Northwest. They were all here to observe the total solar eclipse on Monday morning, but weekend organizers also embraced the opportunity to highlight WOU’s outstanding features. Judging from […]
WOU in the news: Local Author Makes a Splash in Young Adult Fiction - Young Adult Sci-fantasy author Emily Lloyd-Jones works at a bookstore during the day and writes at night. Her latest novel, “The Hearts We Sold,” published by Little, Brown and Company, is listed on Entertainment weekly’s list of the 35 most anticipated YA novels of 2017. A book release celebration and signing was held at Gallery […]
Feature: WOU’s Digital Production Services Focuses on Training, Outreach - The corner of the University Computing Services department in the Instructional Technology Center where digital media producer/director Deborah Rezell has her office is windowless, dark and awash in a constant background buzz. She’s got no complaints, though. The office, studio and control room are tidy and efficient—cozy even. It’s a much different scene than the […]
Feature: Alum Turns Hobby into Career, then Cruises into International Market - Larry Peterson ’05 doesn’t seem like a celebrity from the outset. The Western Oregon University alum is in his mid-40s, works in Independence and has a wife and four sons. But if you ask anyone who’s a fan of longboards—skateboards with extra length and interesting shapes—“Longboard Larry” is a well-known figure. He’s not convinced, though. […]
WOU in the News: Wolves Ready For Trial By Fire - MONMOUTH — The 2016 season was always going to be a transitional one for Western Oregon’s volleyball team. A new coach, Tommy Gott, meant learning a new system and new expectations. The result was a 10-17 record overall. With a year under his belt as head coach, Gott and the Wolves are ready to take […]
WOU in the News: Oregon Promise Students Offered Incentives to Attend Western Oregon - Oregon Promise students now have more choices when it comes to attending a four-year college. Western Oregon University has created two scholarships available to students who meet the qualifications for Oregon Promise, a state grant program that covers most tuition for recipients at Oregon community colleges. Western’s incentive scholarships are the first of their kind in the state. […]
Feature: Silent Weekend’s Success a Testament to WOU Reputation in ASL Community - The ninth annual Silent Weekend event took place July 28-30 on campus, and a record number of participants were on hand for the American Sign Language-immersive experience. “(We had) 275 folks signed up from 18 states,” said event director CM Hall. “It’s our biggest year ever.” Hall, who in her regular duties is co-director of […]
News Release: Western Oregon University Announces Scholarships for Oregon Promise Qualifiers - Western Oregon University has created two new 2017-18 scholarships directed toward students who meet the qualifications for the Oregon Promise program. The first, WOU Jump-Start, is a scholarship for full-time students enrolling for fall 2017 as freshmen who desire the four-year college experience but are considering community college because of financial constraints. There are two […]
Feature: Gentle Family Matriarch and OCE Alumna Defines Dedication to University - When your last name is Gentle and you live on a farm at the edge of campus, there’s little question which college you will attend. And in 1939, that was just fine with Margaret Gentle. “I knew I was going to go there,” she said with a laugh. “It couldn’t be anything else, in this […]
Repeat! Women’s Basketball Earns Academic Honor - For the second consecutive year, Western Oregon University’s women’s basketball team was recognized by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) on the 2016-17 Academic Top-25 Team Honor Roll. The Wolves posted a team grade point average of 3.539, which ranks 21st in NCAA Division II and topped all Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) women’s hoops […]
WOU in the News: Outdoor Showings of ‘Much Ado’ Cost Nothing - At its core, “Much Ado About Nothing” is a story about how one person disrupts the lives of all around him. The troublemaker, Don John — better recognized as the villain in William Shakespeare’s oft-produced play — is the one who has to instigate the action. In the Valley Shakespeare Company’s upcoming production, Western Oregon student […]
WOU in the News: More than Xs and Os: Sports Camp Teaches Youth How to Improve Off-Field Training - Five girls hoisted Olympic barbells to the instruction of coach Cori Metzger in the Thunder Mountain High School weight room on Tuesday. The school was empty save for Metzger and her group, each learning the basics of powerlifting. “One more time: down to your knees, up and shrug,” Metzger said. Each girl extended at the […]
WOU in the News: Vancouver Creator Could Tap Into Booming Board Game Industry - After saying for years he wanted to invent a board game, Marc Neidlinger finally decided it was time to roll the dice. “I said to myself, if I don’t do it now, I never will,” the Vancouver resident said. “If I don’t do it today, when? If you can’t answer that, it means it’s never […]
Feature: Public Safety Officers Go Above and Beyond for Campus Community - On some college campuses, the public safety officers just cover the basics; they patrol campus, lock buildings and file reports. Western Oregon University is not one of those campuses. The department’s six officers plus Director Rebecca Chiles are not content to do just the minimum. Their particular brand of flair is specialty training, and they […]
WOU in the News: New AD Learns on the Fly - Curtis Campbell didn’t know much about Oregon. Born on the East Coast, Campbell had only been as far west as Illinois. Yet, when Western Oregon University began its search for a new director of athletics, Campbell was interested. “My wife and I have always wanted to live on the West Coast because we haven’t before,” […]
Feature: WOU Adjunct’s Adaptation of Arabian Nights Showcases Talent of Local Children - The Apple Box Children’s Theater production of Arabian Nights makes its debut tonight in the amphitheater near Rice Auditorium, when more than local 40 children will bring to life playwright Maren Bradley Anderson’s magical vision. Anderson, an adjunct writing and English instructor at Western Oregon University, based the play on the classic tale One Thousand […]
WOU in the News: Tyrell WIlliams Shares NFL Knowledge During Camp at Western Oregon - Tyrell Williams’ journey to the NFL is a feel-good story from the Mid-Valley. The former standout at Cascade High School and Western Oregon University went undrafted in 2015, but the San Diego Chargers signed him and gave him a shot, and he made the most of it. Williams led the Chargers with 1,059 receiving yards […]
Feature: WOU Forensic Anthropology a Small Niche with a Big Following - Western Oregon University Associate Professor Misty Weitzel has a box of full bones in the corner of her office in Maaske Hall. A skull sits on the bookshelf, and skeletal “face” peers at guests from a pillow. It’s not gruesome, though. They are just tools of her trade. Weitzel teaches forensic anthropology, which harnesses the […]
Maurice Undergraduate Initiative Continues to Inspire Innovative Solutions - Each year, Western Oregon University undergraduate students have the opportunity to win an unrestricted cash award of $5,000 in a contest known as the Maurice Prize. All they have to do is define a problem, then create and execute an innovative solution. The goal of the program, from the founders’ point of view, is to […]
Golden Lamp Award: Stacie Chance - Stacie Chance, the 2017 Golden Lamp Award winner, took a winding path to get to where she is today, but now that she’s fulfilling her life-long dream, there’s no deterring her from her ultimate goal. The Oregon Health & Science University honoree is focused on supporting the health and wellness of her community. To that […]
Alumni Award of Excellence: Betty Komp ’90, ’92 - The 2017 Alumni Award of Excellence winner, Betty Komp, is the embodiment of Western Oregon University’s mission: providing a transformative education. Komp, now a retired Oregon legislator, came to WOU in the late 80s as a 30-something single mom seeking a significant change in her life. She graduated in 1990 with a bachelor’s degree in […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Staff Excellence Award: Bruce Tuma - Bruce Tuma, winner of this year’s Mario and Alma Pastega Staff Excellence Award, has completed hundreds projects on the Western Oregon University campus during his lengthy tenure. In fact, as he’s walking around the grounds, it is like a little trip down memory lane because he is reminded of all the work he has accomplished […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Excellence in Scholarship Award: Dr. Eliot Dickinson - Politics, Policy and Administration Professor Eliot Dickinson is a master of being in the right place at the right time. Opportunities have presented themselves to him throughout his life, and he never hesitated in spotting the opening. Dickinson, a nine-year member of the WOU faculty, is the winner of the 2017 Mario and Alma Pastega […]
Mario and Alma Pastega Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Vivian Djokotoe - Vivian Djokotoe, this year’s recipient of the Mario and Alma Pastega Excellence in Teaching Award, says she has been lucky through every stage of her life. Although she’s certainly been the benefactor of Fortune’s smile many times, however, it’s clear that good ol’ hard work deserves the lion’s share of credit for her success. Djokotoe […]
Julia McCulloch Smith Award: Aleisha Douthitt - If the ultimate goal of attaining a degree is to get a job right out of college, Aleisha Douthitt, this year’s Julia McCulloch Smith Award winner for outstanding female graduate, is well ahead of the game. The Honors Program student already is putting her bachelor’s degree in elementary education to work; she landed a job […]
Delmer Dewey Award: Connor Thompson - Connor Thompson, the 2017 Delmer Dewey Award honoree, has an incredible résumé. The chemistry major interned for NASA, researched nanotechnology and worked on a computational chemistry project involving cartridge cases from the Battle of the Little Bighorn. But in discussing the most influential experience he’s had while on the Western Oregon University campus, the hyper-organized […]
Outstanding Graduate Student Award: Jennifer Kepka - Jennifer Kepka has been working for years to make higher education accessible to more people, especially those with barriers to regular classroom attendance. But her work in online educational resources is just one of the reasons this year’s Outstanding Graduate Student Award recipient reaps praise from her advisers and nominators. “Jennifer’s work is more than […]
Commencement Speaker: Matt Utterback ’89 - North Clackamas School District Superintendent and WOU alum Matt Utterback is this year’s Commencement speaker; it will be the second time that he has had the opportunity to address the audience at a WOU graduation ceremony. Utterback, a 1989 Western Oregon State College – as it was named then – graduate, was that year’s Delmer […]
Grad Profile: Ivan Acosta - As a first-generation student, Ivan Acosta has let nothing stand in his way from getting involved and pursuing a double degree. His first degree is in social sciences and his second is in Spanish. The Spanish degree started off as only his minor, but he soon felt it was necessary for him to pursue. By […]
Grad Profile: Kaylyn Taylor - This is part of our WOU graduate profile series where we’re featuring students who have been making incredible contributions to the WOU community In this feature, we’re celebrating the amazing accomplishments of Kaylyn Taylor, a psychology major with a minor in Spanish. Kaylyn’s been involved in a lot of different programs during her time at […]
Grad Profile: Rosita Olalde - This is part of our WOU graduate profile series where we’re featuring students who have been making incredible contributions to the WOU community One of the first things you notice about Rosita Olalde, though you may not think that it is particularly noticeable at all, is how modest she is. She has a way of talking […]
Grad Profile: Laura Miranda - This is part of our WOU graduate profile series where we’re featuring students who have been making incredible contributions to the WOU community Today we’re featuring Laura Miranda, a social science major who made her mark with numerous organizations on campus, including Upward Bound and the Multicultural Student Union. We asked Laura about her time […]
Grad profile: Max Norr - This is part of our WOU graduate profile series where we’re featuring students who have been making incredible contributions to the WOU community Senior Max Norr is the creator of “The Record Keeper,” an exhibit and website based on books belonging to Sister Genevieve “Birdie” Lantz. She was a nurse with the American Red Cross […]
Commencement Announcer Taking Final Bow This Week - Imagine standing on a stage filled with Western Oregon University dignitaries. There are thousands of pairs of eyes watching you, expectant. President Rex Fuller is poised nearby, waiting to congratulate more than a thousand graduates. On the lectern in front of you is an extensive list of strangers’ names, many of which contain a dizzying […]
WOU Archivist Valuable for University Knowledge, Student Focus - Western Oregon University has many treasures among its faculty and staff, but Archivist and Exhibit Coordinator Jerrie Lee Parpart is a rare gem, one that shines brighter for her in-depth knowledge of the university’s history and for wanting to share that story wide and far. Parpart joined the Western Oregon University staff in 1990, when […]
Alumnus Valladares Planting Community Spirit for City of Independence - At first glance, it might not seem as though Erubiel Valladares ’05 is working in the industry he went to college to study. While at Western Oregon University, Valladares majored in The Arts with a focus on theatre, music and dance. Today he is community liaison for the City of Independence, working toward better engagement […]
Play Combines Self-Determination with Slight Hint of Magic - The Western Oregon University Theatre’s final production of the academic year will be This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing, and although the play by Finegan Kruckemeyer is often described as being “fairy tale-like,” guest director Jen Rowe is quick to indicate her preference for “fable.” “I try not to go down […]
WOU in the news: Adam Watkins is new CHS principal - Adam Watkins has been selected as the next principal at Creswell High School, Superintendent Todd Hamilton announced Thursday. Watkins comes to Creswell from the Salem-Keizer School District, where he currently serves as a district-level administrator supporting instructional services and career technical education programs, Hamilton said. Before joining the Instructional Services Department, Watkins spent 11 years […]
New Executive Director Brings Experience, Excitement to WOU Athletics - Western Oregon University hired Curtis Campbell as its new athletic director on May 15, concluding a nationwide search that brought a handful of diverse candidates to campus for individual presentations. It was Campbell’s unique mix of work experiences that vaulted him above the rest of the field, said WOU President Rex Fuller. “Curtis is the […]
Guide to Donating Blood - Today marks the beginning of the spring American Red Cross blood drive here at WOU. It’ll be taking place today and tomorrow in the Pacific Room from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Experiences of donating blood is very different from person to person, but knowing that it all goes to saving lives is worth every second. Before […]
Becka Morgan Helps Computer Science Students Develop Real-World Skills - The term “open source software” may not be part of the everyday vernacular, but it plays a significant role in our lives, driving the online engines of the digital world. And it just so happens that some Western Oregon University computer science students are getting a substantial head start in the open source world, thanks […]
WOU in the news: Discover MiTown on Saturday - MONMOUTH/INDEPENDENCE — A few changes are in store for the third annual Discover MI Town Saturday from 3 to 7 p.m., sponsored by the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce. “Discover MI Town is an opportunity to stop in and check out many local businesses,” said Ryan Kingsella, chamber executive director. “Each location will be giving away […]
Free Art Events Spring 2017 - As we near the end of the school year and things get busy, it is sometimes good to slow down and take some time for yourself. These upcoming free events might be just the thing you need to take your mind off of your studies for a little bit. MUSIC Free admission May 16 – […]
Track Star Ribich Sets Sights on World of Elite Runners - David Ribich ’18, the WOU track standout, is what Director of Athletic Compliance Randi Lydum calls “the poster child of a student-athlete.” The junior from Enterprise, Ore. works hard, maintains solid grades and continues to make a huge mark in the track world on behalf of the Wolves. “You couldn’t ask for a better guy,” […]
WOU in the news: ‘Fairy tales with a twist’ offered by Oregon City High School - ‘Miss Chudderley’s Fairy Tales With a Twist!’ is the spring offering from Karlyn Love’s play production class Karlyn Love likes her fairy tales a little bit offbeat, and that is why she chose to adapt and modernize five iconic stories, turning them into “Miss Chudderley’s Fairy Tales With a Twist!” the spring offering from her […]
Gluten-Free Guide to Eating on Campus - Are you gluten free or thinking of going gluten free? Are you worried about your options on campus? As of this year, dining on campus had dramatically changed for the better. In addition to the introduction of more options for vegans and vegetarians, there are also new options for those who are gluten-free (whether you have […]
WOU in the news: Ex-Roseburg softball players Jackson, Hamlin now head coaches in same league - I remember Brandi Jackson as a fiery competitor on the diamond during the glory days of Roseburg High School softball. A coach’s daughter, so what else would you expect? Kendra Hamlin was a teammate of Jackson’s at RHS. A fine player in her own right and an excellent centerfielder on an outstanding Indians club that […]
WOU in the news: WOU opens campus for eclipse rentals - MONMOUTH — Western Oregon University is open for eclipse viewers. The college is renting dorms, apartments and camping spots — both for tents and recreational vehicles — for the weekend of the Great American Eclipse, Aug. 19 and 20. Costs vary, depending on accommodations, and apartments are selling fast, said Erin McDonough, executive director of […]
‘Alma’s Project’ Website Offers Resources for DACA Students - Students at Western Oregon University on April 17 introduced “Alma’s Project,” a new website that comprises comprehensive resources for students and community members enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The website is packed with information to support the academic, psychological and social lives of DACA students at WOU and beyond. There […]
WOU in the news: Western Oregon runner David Ribich is having quite a year – Oregon track & field rundown - Thumbs up for Western Oregon junior David Ribich, who ran last weekend’s fastest 1,500-meter time by any college runner regardless of classification. Ribich clocked a time of 3 minutes, 41.45 seconds while winning at the Oregon State High Performance Meet on Friday. It’s a WOU and Great Northwest Athletic Conference record, and would tie him for […]
Food pantry seeks next step in service - The WOU Food Pantry, housed in the Academic Programs and Support Center building, has been getting a lot of press in the past four months. Media attention has come from several newspapers and a television station, all of which is welcome support in the eyes of Director Rebecca Hardgrave ’18. “We appreciate the attention if […]
Social Media Manager Devotes Days to Outreach - Lisa Catto ’10 has been a fixture on the Western Oregon University campus for 12 years, though her title and office location have changed multiple times. Since the creation of Strategic Communications and Marketing in September, Catto has been the manager of media relations and social media, a title she describes as the most accurate […]
WOU in the news: Western Oregon’s Andy Avgi preparing for upcoming NFL draft - MONMOUTH — There are many unknowns in Andy Avgi’s future, but the former Western Oregon athlete is enjoying every moment of it. Avgi, from Woodburn, was a standout in both basketball and football for the Wolves, and now he is training ahead of the NFL draft with hopes that a team will call. “Training is […]
Western Oregon University Appoints Kathleen Cassity as Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences - Western Oregon University is excited to announce Kathleen Cassity of Honolulu has been selected as the new dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS). Cassity currently is the assistant interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts at Hawaii Pacific University and also served there as chairperson of the Department of English […]
WOU in the news: The Corvallis Half - If you milled around the starting line of the Corvallis Half Marathon before the race got underway, you would have seen a microcosm of Corvallis: People of all ages talking, knots of people in matching group shirts taking photos together, people with signs to support family members and friends, a toddler throwing a tantrum in […]
WOU in the news: ‘The Great War’: PBS documentary finds haunting parallels between World War I and U.S today (review) - Debates about whether the United States should intervene in wars fought in other countries; African Americans, women and other minority groups demanding equal rights; citizens resenting the federal government’s encroachment into their daily lives; and the government cracking down on those who dare question the rightness of the U.S. approach to national emergencies. That list […]
Gerontology Students Seek Opportunities to Shine in Their Program - The Gerontology program at Western Oregon University is a fairly recent addition to campus; The first graduates were a handful of post-baccalaureate students in 2012. But the area of study is high on the job-outlook meter, so the program has enjoyed quite a bit of growth during the five years since. Associate Professor Margaret Manoogian […]
WOU in the news: Avgi Chases Football Dream - MONMOUTH — There have been few names that have stood as tall in Western Oregon University athletics as Andy Avgi. On the hardwood, he helped lead the men’s basketball team to the NCAA Division II Final Four during the 2015-16 season. On the gridiron, he played football for the last two years, and had 16 […]
American Experience Series to Feature WOU History Professor - The PBS series American Experience will air “The Great War” from April 10-12 in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the United States’ entry into the conflict. A familiar face is certain to appear in at least one of the three installments. Western Oregon University Professor of History and Gender Studies Kimberly Jensen was among […]
WOU in the news: Crossed swords lead to ‘Classical Crossroads’ concert - We’ve all seen this way too many times. A sharp review, words are exchanged online, things get personal. And the next thing you know everyone’s typing in all caps, using death’s head emojis and … well, it’s just getting out of hand. We love a good art feud as much as anyone, but usually nothing […]
WOU Alum and WOU Senior Show They Have a Way with Words - It is challenging to chart one’s own path in the world of publishing, but a recent Western Oregon University graduate and a current WOU senior have fearlessly entered the fray to share their creative styles. Both women majored in English with a concentration in writing, and they describe their years at the university as transformative […]
New Mursion software takes teaching instruction to virtual level - Assistant Professor of Education Maria Peterson-Ahmad has been working for months to bring an innovative new education tool to Western Oregon University, and she will unveil the program tomorrow to a group of students, teacher-education partners and anyone who is curious about virtual classrooms. “I’m so excited to show Mursion to everyone,” Peterson-Ahmad said, her […]
Networking: Making professional connections - There’s an old saying: “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” And while that oversimplifies the process of finding a job, it has proven to be relatively true. Networking is an important factor inside and outside of your career. The perfect time to start, if you haven’t already, is right now. It takes […]
WOU alum wins National Superintendent of the Year Award - Western Oregon University alumnus Matt Utterback ’89 has won the National Superintendent of the Year Award from the American Association of School Administrators. The award was announced March 2 in New Orleans. Utterback has been superintendent at North Clackamas School District since 2012, and during that time the district has made major gains in graduation […]
WOU in the news: Salem basketball ref Millard Bates, 86, is a legend - Millard Bates arrives a half-hour before tipoff, setting his duffel bag at the end of the bench. He chats with the coaches, league officials, scorekeepers and his partner, even a couple of fans sitting across the court in the bleachers. He’s a local celebrity, as far as basketball referees go. After making the rounds, he […]
You made 2017 Giving Day a huge success - We set a goal of 161 donors for our Giving Day (in honor of WOU’s 161 years) and you amazed us with your support! You rallied and we had 223 donors contribute more than $20,000 to support students and programs. Donations were made from at least 16 different states from New York to Hawaii. “I […]
WOU student creates tool for deaf and hard of hearing drivers - Allison Kingsella ’17 came to Western Oregon University with a plan. The California native had fallen in love with American Sign Language while working on a senior project in high school, and she wanted to train for a career as an interpreter. However, it didn’t take long for Kingsella to realize that standing at the […]
Cesar E. Chavez Leadership Conference brings Hispanic youths to campus - On March 3, Western Oregon University welcomed about 2,200 students, school staff and chaperones for the 27th annual César E. Chávez Leadership Conference (CECLC), an all-day event meant to inspire Hispanic students to seek leadership roles. The day’s events started with a welcome and keynote address in the New P.E. building, where the bleachers overflowed […]
National grant extends CASA’s reach - Last fall, The Research Institute (TRI) and the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women extended their six-year relationship until at least 2019. A $300,000 grant sealed the deal. There was not a lot of fanfare at the time, but the continuation agreement is a significant coup for Western Oregon University. Not only […]
WOU in the news: Westview students to attend Cesar Chavez conference - The event is expected to draw more than 2,000 Oregon Hispanic high school students, with a focus on workshops, an exhibitor fair, guest sessions, an awards ceremony and a dance. When Western Oregon University welcomes the 27th annual Cesar E. Chavez Leadership Conference to campus on Friday, it will include a boisterous busload of students […]
WOU in the news: A different seat at the table for students - At first glance, Shayna Hicks’ second-grade class at Mountain View Elementary School in Corvallis looked a little chaotic: A couple of students lounged in bean bag chairs. Others sat in a small group around a coffee table in comfy chairs, while others lay on the floor on their stomachs looking at iPads as a steady […]
“Shakespeare in Hollywood” melds the Bard with a bad movie - Plenty of theatrical works involve a play within a play, but “Shakespeare in Hollywood” takes the concept to a new, hilarious level. Not only is there a movie within a play, but there also are characters from a Shakespearean comedy thrust into roles in a 1930s film. Confused? Don’t worry, said director Ted deChatelet. Just […]
How to Choose a Major at WOU - Freshmen may feel pressure to choose a major before the beginning of fall term, but being undecided is perfectly fine! One of the best parts about college is being able to choose your own classes. Going to class is much more exciting when you are learning about something that interests you! However, this can become […]
WOU in the news: New Public Health manager’s job a “perfect fit” - When Glenna Hughes talks about her new job as the Linn County Public Health Program manager, she cannot help but smile. It is, she said, a perfect combination of her key interests: sociology and health care. Hughes, 58, takes over the role held for many years by Pat Crozier, who retired at the end of […]
Senior Allison Yamnitsky charting path for her future - If you’d asked Alli Yamnitsky ’17 during her freshman year at Western Oregon University what she saw herself doing after graduation, she probably would have said she’d be a history teacher. The Corbett High School grad lists history among her passions, along with environmental studies, her minor. But fate steered Yamnitsky in a different direction […]
WOU in the news: NFL’s Tyrell Williams returns to Turner Elementary - TURNER – Much has changed for Tyrell Williams since he roamed the halls at Turner Elementary School as a fifth grader. These days Williams is a standout wide receiver for the Los Angeles Chargers. On Tuesday he was back at his old school, a guest of principal Dan Petersen, Williams’ track and field coach at […]
Jayme Stone’s Lomax Project performs two nights on campus - Showing two nights this upcoming week, the Jayme Stone’s Lomax Project is sure to be a hit in the Smith’s Fine Art Series. The Lomax Project was inspired by Alan Lomax, who documented the intimate history of remote places of the U.S., Caribbean, Europe, and North Africa. By recording the voices of people around diverse […]
Child Development Center adds SMART reading program - After a fall term spent organizing, scouting and preparing, the Child Development Center on Jan. 18 started welcoming volunteers with Start Making a Reader Today for weekly visits to Western Oregon University. The seven SMART volunteers read one on one with children for an hour each Wednesday morning, providing personal attention and sharing their enthusiasm […]
Meet new faculty member Dr. Melissa Cannon - Dr. Melissa Cannon joined Western Oregon University fall 2016 as an assistant professor in Gerontology. She joined WOU after earning completing her Ph.D. in urban studies at Portland State University. Her dissertation was titled Challenges, Experiences, and Future Directions of Senior Centers Serving the Portland Metropolitan Area. We asked her some questions to get to know one […]
Ryan Kingsella strives for MICC-WOU cooperation - Ryan Kingsella ’16 started as the executive director of the Monmouth and Independence Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center at the beginning of the year. The Western Oregon University alumnus is ready to build a stronger connection between the two towns and the university. A bond already exists, the 28-year-old early childhood education major said. WOU […]
Out & Proud to be celebrated with three February events - Out & Proud is an annual celebration at WOU that explores the various cultures and ethnic backgrounds within the LGBTQ community. This year, there are two events planned Feb. 8 and a ball set for Feb. 10. Coordinator Katherine Macias-Torres is spearheading the Feb. 8 events, and the sophomore pre-nursing student said she’s excited to […]
“All in the Timing” – a series of wacky events - Director Kent Neely describes All in the Timing simply as a “ridiculous comedy.” The title, which comprises six short plays, doesn’t lean toward social commentary, parody or satire. It’s just pure fun with a heavy focus on wordplay, absurdity and the examination of personal relationships, all set in a comedy club-type atmosphere. “The interactions and […]
Changes seen through Campus Dining - To say Albert Worotikan hit the ground running in his new job as director of campus dining would be a serious understatement. He was sharing his ideas for improvements before he even landed the post. “I was showing them plans for my ideas during my job interview,” he said with a chuckle. “I think that’s […]
Laura Gage: anthropology alumna on the go - Most of what people need to know about 2010 grad Laura Gage’s world view can be found in the title of her YouTube channel: “Laura the Explorer.” She’s a world traveler, and she attributes her adaptability to her time at Western Oregon University. Gage has taken the knowledge gained during courses for her anthropology major […]
Wou in the news: WOU’s record-setting performances land weekly honor - PORTLAND, Ore. – The Western Oregon men’s and women’s track and field teams combined to break two GNAC records and five school records at the University of Washington Invitational over the weekend to claim this week’s Red Lion/GNAC Team of the Week honor. David Ribich broke the WOU and GNAC records in the men’s mile, […]
Western Accessibility Awareness Month returns in February - Western Accessibility Awareness Month hits the ground running with the main event on the first day of the month. The annual awareness event is meant to promote, celebrate, and build awareness about disability and accessibility at WOU through a series of presentations. The primary WAAM event on Feb. 1 will be Dr. Kathleen Bogart’s address […]
WOU in the news: The man behind ‘Oregon, My Oregon’ - John Andrew Buchanan was a teacher, attorney, poet, state representative and municipal judge, but he’s best known as the lyricist behind the state song, “Oregon, My Oregon.” His granddaughter, Carol Lambert, 85, is the proud keeper of his legacy. She’s raising money to erect a two-sided, granite memorial at his grave in Warrenton’s Ocean View […]
Public health alum Eli Cox prescribes an ounce of prevention - Western Oregon University alumni Eli Cox has come full circle. Not so long ago, he was a sophomore struggling to gain a foothold on a career path. With the help of patient and supportive WOU instructors, he finally navigated his way to a degree in a field he’s passionate about: public health. Now, six years […]
WOU in the news: Les Watanabe on Alvin Ailey, Lar Lubovitch, Donald McKayle and his life in dance - At 2 and 7:30 pm on Saturday, January 21, Laura Stilwell, Felice Moskowitz, Terry Brock and Emma Mochnick will dance Les Watanabe’s Love Songs, part of Fertile Ground’s Groovin’ Greenhouse, hosted by Polaris Dance Theatre. I was initially interested in learning more about Watanabe when I heard that Love Songs was being performed by a […]
WOU in the news: Two Tigerwolves, one Tiger–together - MONMOUTH — Two Timberwolves. Add in a Tiger. Put them together on the same team. Heck, put them all on the court at the same time. What do you get? A renewed rivalry? Nope, you get those rivals working together, having fun and providing a spark. And the Western Oregon University women’s basketball team is […]
Civil Rights Film Series kicks off tonight - It’s winter term at Western Oregon University, and that means the opportunity to learn more about civil rights and the clash of class and race is again upon us. Starting today, the Civil Rights Film Series gets under way on its term-long run, starting with Citizen King, an overview of the life of Dr. Martin […]
MLK Jr. Celebration Annual Dinner headlines week of commemoration events - Each year, the days following the observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday are full of events designed to honor the civil rights leader’s vision. For the 2017 celebration at Western Oregon University, there are five activities planned for students, faculty, staff and the community that aim to do just that. The main event […]
WOU in the news: Chargers wide receiver Williams finalist for NFL award - When it comes to NFL bargains, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone who provides more bang for the buck than San Diego Chargers wide receiver Tyrell Williams. The second-year pro from Western Oregon University is a finalist for the 10th annual VIZIO Top Value Performer trophy, an award given to the the NFL player […]
WOU scholarship program adjusted to support reservists denied G.I. Bill - Last month, WOU President Rex Fuller learned that 36 Oregon members of the Marine Corps Reserves had been denied G.I Bill education benefits during a six-month deployment to Honduras. Despite their time spent renovating a hospital, building a school and completing other aid projects, the reservists learned when they arrived home that they had not […]
WOU in the news: Chamber director ready to jump in - MONMOUTH/INDEPENDENCE — Ryan Kingsella has a passion for helping his community in positive ways. “There’s no cooler feeling than knowing that I’ve really helped a business succeed,” he said. Kingsella, 28, started his job as director of the Monmouth Independence Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center on Sunday, though the work didn’t really start until […]
WOU in the news: Kingsella hopes to help people communicate - MONMOUTH — It’s not very large — it fits in the driver’s side visor — and could make a difference in how smoothly a routine traffic stop could be for someone who is hard of hearing or deaf. Allison Kingsella, 21, is the driving force behind visor cards to bridge the communication gap between police […]
Best toy drive in campus history - Each holiday season, Western Oregon University’s community comes together to collect toys and gifts for local foster youth of all ages. We’re excited to announce that this year the community collected the most toys in the drive’s history. Local staff from the Department of Human Services rely on support from our community to help provide […]
Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Barbara Dearing to retire - Barbara Dearing will retire June 30, 2017, as its executive director of intercollegiate athletics at Western Oregon University. “I have been blessed to have been involved with WOU Athletics,” Dearing said. “It’s been an honor to work alongside the coaching and athletics administrative staff whose focus has been about the student-athlete experience, and how that experience […]
WOU in the news: Latt named associate director of special programs - The Sherwood School District is pleased to announce the hiring of Eryn Latt as associate director of special programs. Latt comes to Sherwood from the Greater Albany Public School District, where she served in various roles since 2008. Among them, are serving as a special education teacher at North Albany Middle School (2008-2012) and West […]
WOU in the news: University students face food insecurity - Imagine having to decide between paying for a course textbook or your next meal. Situations like that are becoming more common for students in higher education. “I had a student come in … who hadn’t seen vegetables for three years,” said Grecia Garcia, who helps oversee the Chemeketa Community College pantry. “We want students to focus on their studies, […]
Letter from President Fuller - Dear Campus Community: The national discussion following the election has raised many concerns among our most vulnerable groups of students. We gathered on November 11 to remind our students of the support that our university has for all students and to remind ourselves that we have nurtured a caring, inclusive community at Western. Now, more […]
WOU in the news: An Anchorage police officer tries a new approach to tackle neighborhood crime concerns - As a crime prevention student at an Oregon college, Robin Nave researched local crime concerns with a door-to-door survey. Nearly two decades later, Nave, now a 12-year veteran of the Anchorage Police Department, is bringing back her college research technique to help Anchorage residents feel safer. Earlier this year, Nave created a crime survey for […]
WOU in the news: Clackamas Community College, Western Oregon University partner in dual enrollment agreement - Clackamas Community College and Western Oregon University signed a dual enrollment agreement Nov. 14 that creates a supportive pathway for students between the two schools. “We are excited to work with Western Oregon University in creating another opportunity for Clackamas Community College students who want to complete their bachelor’s degree,” CCC President Joanne Truesdell said. […]
WOU in the news: Science teachers net prestigious awards - Science teachers Terry Evers and Toni Hanson have quite a bit in common. Both have spent their entire careers in the Newberg School District, at Ewing Young elementary and Mountain View middle school, respectively, and split their time between the classroom and serving as instructional facilitators. Each is also known for designing hands-on learning activities […]
WOU in the news: Western invites community input - MONMOUTH — When Rex Fuller was first hired as Western Oregon University’s president in April 2015, he anticipated having conversations with the campus community and residents of the surrounding area. This year, those conversations took a more formal approach. In April 2016, a committee of 25 people representing a cross-section of campus started working in […]
WOU in the news: After more than 50 years, Jeanne Bridges still devoted to Cummings Elementary School - KEIZER — Jeanne Bridges likes to keep things the same. “In my whole life, I’m that way, I like things to be just the way they are,” Bridges said. So it should be no surprise that she has stayed at Cummings Elementary School for more than 50 years. “I never wanted to go anywhere else,” […]
WOU in the news: Western Oregon no longer requires SAT, ACT scores - Students applying for admission to Western Oregon University will no longer be required to submit an ACT or SAT test score. This change goes into effect for fall 2017 applicants with a cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher and who have successfully passed the required college prep high school courses, according to a Western Oregon […]
Free concerts to enjoy through the term - If you are finding it hard to relax as the end of the term approaches and need an evening of escape, no worries WOU’s Music Department understands. Here are the free upcoming concerts from now until the end of the term to help you unwind. Nov. 14 – 7:30 p.m. – Smith Music Hall 121 […]
International Education Week - November 14 marks the beginning of this years International Education Week (IEW), an annual event that focuses on the advantages of global involvement in education. Beginning with a joint initiative between the U.S. Department of State as well as the U.S. Department of Education, IEW promotes programs and organizations that include study abroad as well as […]
Fall theatre production: “Machinal” by Sophie Treadwell - On November 10, the WOU Theatre Department will be putting on Machinal, a play written by Sophie Treadwell and directed by theater professor Michael Phillips. This play seems like a hollowing echo of the struggle of women through the decades to be more than just a household necessity and instead their own person. The story of Machinal is […]
WOU in the news: Smart comes to Western Oregon - MONMOUTH — Oregon’s largest volunteer-based literacy program, SMART (Start Making A Reader Today) announced it will open a program at The Child Development Center at TRI on the campus of Western Oregon University. SMART delivers one-on-one reading support for TRI’s preschool students, who also will receive up to 14 new books to take home and […]
The Cannon Gallery of Art highlights students from the Pacific Northwest - The Cannon Gallery of Art is opening its second exhibition of the year on Wednesday. The exhibition is called New Ventures: Student Design Exhibition and was originally created for the 2014 Portland AIGA Design Educators Conference. This will be the second showing of these pieces that were compiled from students all over Oregon and parts […]
Voter registration drive surpasses goal - The voting process is one that takes place predominately on a local level. It is a chance for everyone’s voice to be heard, and their opinions to be brought forward. In recent years the effort has reached even further to include college students by the masses. It involves getting students registered in advance, keeping them […]
Everything you need to know about voting in the election - There is less than one week before the 2016 general election and whether you like the politics of the season or not, it’s important to know the logistics of voting and who is involved. Polk county ballot drop-offs With vote-by-mail in Oregon, we are fortunate to not have to wait in lines to return our votes, […]
WOU enrolls its most diverse class of new students - Western Oregon University welcomes the fall 2016 entering class of freshmen and transfer students – its most culturally diverse in the 160-year history of the Oregon’s oldest public university. WOU President Rex Fuller said, “Western Oregon University’s strengths are many, and are all focused around our mission of educating each student in a manner that prepares […]
WOU in the news: Visiting professor helps music teachers combat student anxiety - Musicians and music teachers learned about combating performance anxiety on Saturday during a workshop with Dr. Diane Baxter. Baxter is a Professor of Music at Western Oregon University and has performed all over the world. The free public workshop in Hermiston was made possible by the Oregon Music Teachers Associations and Oregon Community Foundation. Baxter […]
Speaker to talk about Native American and tribal policy issues - Tonight is the next in a series of talks about Native American and tribal policy issues. These talks are part of the political science (PS 425) “Native American Politics and Policy” course, but all are invited (both students and the local community) as the speakers will address broader issues. The class looks at Native American history, […]
WOU in the news: Former JDHS QB racks up 445 yards, 4 TDs for Western Oregon - No matter the situation, Western Oregon University quarterback Phillip Fenumiai of Juneau goes all out on the football field. His effort isn’t dictated by the scoreboard. So when the Wolves trailed Humboldt State by three touchdowns in the second half he just kept playing. In the end, Fenumiai didn’t get the win. But he gained […]
WOU in the news: DII football – meet the Wes Welker of Western Oregon – Paul Revis - Even now, two-plus years into a career that sets records and defies convention, Paul Revis feels the doubts. He lines up against defenders who he knows dismiss the numbers and question the scouting report, because they see a guy just shy of 5-9 and who weighs 165 pounds only with rocks in his pockets. But […]
WOU hosts Humboldt on Homecoming, Senior Day - The 2016 WOU homecoming football game takes place Saturday, Oct. 22 at 12:37 p.m. Details on how to watch, game preview, and more are below. Game No. 8 VS Western Oregon (3-4, 2-3 GNAC) vs. Humboldt State (3-4, 1-4 GNAC) Oct. 22, 2016 • McArthur Field (2,500) – Monmouth, Ore. / 12:37 p.m. PT […]
WOU in the news: Indy Latino liaison reaches out - INDEPENDENCE — For three years, the city of Independence has had a community liaison focused on improving connections between government and Latino residents. Community liaisons were filled by interns, until now. The outreach was so successful, the city hired a full-time community liaison, Erubiel Valladares. “My job is to figure out how the community interacts with […]
Homecoming 2016 Preview - Homecoming week is a great time to celebrate what it means to be a Wolf, for students and alumni alike. Here is a run down of what you can find around campus the week of October 17! Student Schedule: Monday October 17 Fifth Annual Fundie Run – Starts at 5: 30pm the Stadium and ends at the […]
Cannon Gallery kicks off fall exhibitions with local artist - This week the Cannon Gallery of Art in Campbell hall will be opening its first exhibition of the year titled “Whomever Brought Me Here is Going to Have to Take me Home.” This exhibition is full of paintings from Tim Timmerman who has been an artist starting from a very young age. Timmerman continued his art […]
WOU Athletics celebrates the life of Hall of Fame track coach Don Spinas - Don Spinas, the long-time head track and field coach at Western Oregon University, passed away Thursday, Sept. 22 at the age of 83. Spinas is one of the most decorated coaches in the history of WOU track and field. During his tenure at Western Oregon (then Oregon College of Education and Western Oregon State […]
WOU in the news: Gut wrenching images: Rick Bartow’s ‘Things You Know But Cannot Explain’ exhibition - Rick Bartow walked onto his spirit journey on April 2, 2016 due to congestive heart disease. He had suffered two strokes, the last in August 2013. According to the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts, this life-changing event affected his work and we see it in the collection as “exciting examples of Bartow’s production since […]
WOU in the news: Tyrell Williams looks to go on attack mode - A football floated toward Tyrell Williams in the back-right corner of the end zone Sunday, the type of ball made for a man of his measure. The 6-foot-4 Chargers wide receiver had a good 4 inches on Ron Parker in coverage. Not only that but Parker’s back was to the ball, the Chiefs safety not tracking its […]
WOU in the news: Multi-Story Buildings Going Up Using cross-laminated timber - CLT Promises New Construction Boom in the Future, Pilot Programs Under Development in Oregon Multi-Story Buildings Going Up in Oregon Using cross-laminated timber (CLT). The use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) in multi-story buildings is no longer just something people are talking about. In Oregon, two new buildings that feature CLT are almost complete, and construction […]
WOU in the news: Education Center Ready For Debut - The Richard Woodcock Education Center is bustling with activity, but not from students — not yet. It’s faculty and staff who are moving into the new building for Western Oregon University’s Department of Education. Dean of Education Mark Girod is excited to have a base of operations for the 800 education majors on campus, as […]
Fall sports tickets now on sale - Season ticket packages and single-game tickets for the 2016 Western Oregon Athletics fall season are now available for purchase online or at the WOU Ticket Office. Various ticket packages are available for football, volleyball and women’s soccer. For more information on purchasing tickets, click here. Women’s soccer opens the season at home on Thursday, […]
Women’s Basketball named to WBCA Academic Top 25 - The Western Oregon women’s basketball team was honored Tuesday by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) after the announcement of the 2015-16 Academic Top-25 Team Honor Roll. With a team grade point average of 3.566, the Wolves ranked 21st in NCAA Division II and topped all Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) women’s hoops teams. […]
WOU receives grant to conduct important research on experiences among Oregon’s “Deaf community”: Researchers seek participants for their research - Western Oregon University (WOU) assistant professor Dr. Denise Thew Hacket, in collaboration with WOU’s Regional Resource Center on Deafness, received a $200,000 grant from the State of Oregon’s Department of Human Services. The funding allows for research targeting Oregon’s Deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing loss communities. It will provide information regarding how well the […]
WOU in the news: Prestige program engages seniors - With age comes the freedom of retirement, the joy of grandchildren and the wisdom gained from lifelong experiences. But, it can also come with the reality of memory loss, diminished strength and the inherent risk of injuries from accidents and falls. To help today’s seniors improve their overall well-being, Prestige Care has launched a new […]
WOU in the news: New teachers get hands-on geography lesson - Two teaching graduates from OSU-Cascades returned from their trip to Spain and Portugal last week where they studied physical and human geography with the Center for Geography Education in Oregon at Portland State University. Heidi Wilson and Amanda Mattei received their Oregon preliminary teaching licenses from Oregon State University this summer and participated in the […]
WOU honored most dedicated donors at annual President’s Club Dinner - On July 8, 2016, Western Oregon University’s most dedicated financial supporters were honored at the annual President’s Club Dinner. The event was held at Illahe Hills Country Club and featured toasts by Paul Kyllo, WOU Foundation Board chair, recent alumna Dominique Figueroa, President Rex Fuller, and Jim Baumgartner, chair of WOU’s Board of Trustees. Music […]
WOU in the news: WOU Breaks Ground On Health Center - MONMOUTH — Western Oregon University will soon have a new facility for the Student Health and Counseling Center, scheduled for opening in spring 2017. Campus officials held a groundbreaking ceremony Friday, which included a blessing from tribal elder Bob Tom. The center will be built with increased student tuition fees, but associated student body president […]
WOU in the news: Globe Trotter - Published by: Polk County Itemizer-Observer Written by: Lukas Eggen MONMOUTH — Las Vegas has long been a city where people go to bet big with the hope of hitting the jackpot. It seems fitting that the city would serve as the setting where former Western Oregon men’s basketball player Devon Alexander will go all-in as he […]
WOU in the news: Western Oregon University’s unique role - On a hot Willamette Valley morning last month, in the middle of the black robes and snapping cameras of graduation season, more than 800 brand new alumni collected bachelor’s degrees at Western Oregon University in Monmouth. It wasn’t the largest class among the state universities, and nobody occupied the stage in protest, but the occasion […]
Wolves football game vs. HSU to be aired on ASN - The Western Oregon football team’s Homecoming and Senior Day game against Humboldt State (Oct. 22) has been picked up for a national television broadcast on the American Sports Network as part of the 2016 Division II Football Showcase, the NCAA announced Thursday. The WOU-HSU game will kick off at 12:30 p.m. at McArthur Field […]
Summer Heatwave Concert Series - Staying around Monmouth this summer with nothing to do? Don’t worry, Western Oregon University is having a Summer Heatwave Concert Series. This open to all ages concert series is sponsored by Student Leadership and Activities. It starts this week and runs every Wednesday until the end of July. The concerts run from noon until the party […]
WOU’s 159th Commencement - Congratulations to the class of 2016! Today marks the 159th Commencement for Western Oregon University. Check out some of these interesting stats about our graduating class and stories about many of them. The graduating class of 2016 totals 1,323 individuals that have earned a total of 1,333 degrees. 900 are attending commencement today. 83 percent of […]
Mario & Alma Pastega Award in Staff Excellence: Sharyne Ryals - An unexpected incident led Sharyne Ryals, this year’s Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Staff Excellence recipient, to Western Oregon University. Ryals had always worked in the private sector, and her previous job was at a silicon wafer manufacturer. This industry became an unstable environment to work in, and closed like many other businesses in […]
Maria & Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching: Cheryl Beaver - Dr. Cheryl Beaver has found a way to balance her academic interests at Western Oregon University: mathematics and education. This year’s Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching recipient, she has flourished as a math educator. She and her husband, Dr. Scott Beaver, joined WOU in 2005. Prior to becoming a collegiate educator, […]
Mario & Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship: Darryl Thomas - Darryl Thomas’ interest in dance began with the hope of meeting girls, but quickly grew into a deep adoration for the poetry and beauty of human movement. Thomas, this year’s Mario and Alma Pastega Excellence in Scholarship and Creativity Award recipient, has had an eventful and productive career in dance. It all began in Detroit […]
Julia McCullough Smith Award: Han Vu Gia Nguyen - The year before she came to Western as a freshman, Han Vu Gia Nguyen had moved to the United States from Vietnam with her parents. Now, just five years later, this year’s Julia McCulloch Smith award recipient for outstanding senior female is fluent in a new language, achieved significant academic and extracurricular success, and is […]
Delmer Dewey Award: John Goldsmith - Some students find comfort in classes, some in sports, some in extracurricular activities, while others are happiest with a mix of involvement during their college career. John Goldsmith, this year’s Delmer Dewey award recipient for outstanding senior male, took advantage of as many academic and leadership opportunities as his time and interest afforded. On the […]
Golden Lamp Award: Kayla Corwin - There is no traditional route to Commencement, as Kayla Corwin learned. This Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) graduating student has been an undergraduate for nine years. “I had a long road getting here,” she said. Science has always been a strength of Corwin’s. In high school she took an anatomy class and while her […]
Alumni Award of Excellence: Dennis Tichenor - Dennis Tichenor has dedicated his life to serving others. This year’s recipient of the Alumni Award of Excellence, Tichenor has made a lasting impression on the lives of countless children and young adults. He learned that lesson from his parents, who told him, “If you’re going to do anything, give some things back.” He found […]
Grad profile: Sarah Duhart - Fully set on going to another college, Sarah Duhart changed her mind last second after being offered a position at the WOU’s Writing Center straight out of high school. She says that she hasn’t regretted her decision one bit because it gave her opportunities she would not have had otherwise. Because of the support provided […]
Grad profile: Ashley Baxter - Ashley Baxter Hillsboro, Ore. Community health education major Undergraduate Ashley Baxter is a graduating community health major. Baxter chose WOU because she heard it was affordable and when she toured the campus, she fell in love with the beauty. “I just knew I’d be happier here at this type of university.” Baxter enjoyed the amount of […]
Grad profile: Matt Turner - Matt Turner Prince George, British Columbia Applied exercise science major Undergraduate Matt Turner is a graduating applied exercise science major. He chose WOU because his academic advisor from Chemeketa Community College suggested it for what he was doing, which at the time was pre-physical therapy. His advisor said that WOU was a great school with smaller […]
Grad profile: Mashael Alansari - Mashael Alansari Saudi Arabia Master’s in Education Graduate Mashael Alansari is a graduating masters student getting her master’s in education. She chose WOU because her close friend studied here before her and talked about classes that were interesting. Her friend then encouraged Alansari to apply. She looked at the program and liked the description of […]
Grad Profile: Dominik Heidemeyer - Many move great distances to attend school, but not many in this year’s graduating class traveled as far as Dominik Heidemeyer. Heidemeyer is originally from a small town called Hülm that is on the outskirts of Goch, Germany. He came to Western because it was close to where he ended up living with his wife […]
Grad profile: Kaylee Church - Name: Kaylee Church Age: 21 Major/Minor: Mathematics/psychology Hometown: Damascus, Ore. Favorite campus event: New Student Week/Wind Down Wednesday Best study spot: Study room in Math building Advice to incoming freshman: “Don’t doubt yourself, go with what you like in your activities and studies.” Affordability is what put WOU on Church’s radar when she began searching for colleges. Out-of-state tuition deterred her from […]
Grad profile: Conner Williams - Name: Conner Williams Age: 22 Major/minor: Humanities/economics Hometown: Molalla, Ore. Favorite campus event: New Student Week Best study spot: Terry House Advice to incoming freshman: “Get involved a little earlier. As a freshman, you can easily get caught up in the mindset of having a college experience as it’s shown in movies, but there’s much more to your time in college.” For […]
Grad profile: Shay Guyton - Name: Shay Guyton Age: 21 Major/Minor: Community health education/psychology Hometown: Hillsboro, Ore. Favorite campus event: New Student Week Best study spot: Floor of residence halls, or study rooms in Hamersly Library Advice to incoming freshman: “Keep doing the things you love. Don’t let other people tell you not to do them. I was hesitant to join things as a freshman, but […]
Grad profile: Bella Borja - College is