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 Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces the 2025 Outstanding Graduate Undergraduate Awards recipients. The students will be recognized at the commencement ceremony on June 15, and they will have the opportunity to give a short speech. 

Below are the 2024 Outstanding Graduating Undergraduate Award Recipients: 

Jaidah Garcia, from Portland, Ore., is the first in her family to earn a high school diploma. In addition to pursuing a double major in psychology and sociology, she has made significant contributions to Western. Recently, she joined the Tri-Alpha Honor Society, which recognizes first-generation college students, and has participated in various student panels. 

With a proven track record of excellence in academics, campus involvement, and community service, Garcia has distinguished herself in many ways. Alongside her partner, Angeles Reyes Mondragon, she won the Maurice Initiative in 2024. Her exceptional work in the Honors Program includes a senior thesis project that addresses the experiences of Latinos with learning disabilities. This research proposes legislative policies aimed at improving support systems for LatinX students facing educational challenges.

Throughout her time at Western, Garcia has actively volunteered for numerous campus events and community service projects, while taking on various roles both on and off campus.

Alexis Pacheco, from McMinnville, Ore., and a first-generation college student, is majoring in psychology with a minor in communications. After achieving one of the top grades in cognitive psychology, she demonstrated remarkable intellectual and academic promise, leading to an invitation to collaborate with Dr. Rob Winningham on a paper on topics in geriatric rehabilitation. The editor was impressed to learn that Alexis was an undergraduate and praised her contributions to the project.

Throughout her time at Western, Alexis has been recognized with several scholarships for her dedication and hard work. She is a proud member of the Tri-Alpha Honor Society and the Psi Chi Honor Society. In addition to her studies, she has balanced multiple jobs and serves as the youngest Latina on the McMinnville Spanish SDA Executive Board of Directors.

Upon graduation, Alexis aims to enroll in Western’s Doctorate of Occupational Therapy program as part of the state’s new behavioral health initiative. Her ambition is to work with children and adolescents facing trauma, incorporating a multicultural perspective into the mental health field.

Ariel Rolfe, from Juneau, Alaska, is graduating with a Master of Arts in Teaching, with an emphasis on visual art education for secondary schools. She holds an MFA in Museum Exhibition Planning & Design and a bachelor’s degree in painting and drawing. Before her time at Western, Ariel thrived as a versatile “jack of all trades,” taking on various art-related roles. Notably, she served as a museum exhibition designer and fabricator in Alaska and California, collaborating with over 30 museums, heritage centers, libraries, and similar institutions dedicated to fostering community spaces through storytelling.

Ariel’s museum experience is deeply rooted in a respect for the lessons we learn from one another, a perspective she carries into her work as an art educator. She recently completed her clinical practicum at Hood River Valley High School and will return to Alaska to embark on her next adventure as a middle school art teacher this fall.

Cruz Lopez is a proud first-generation college student who earned his Bachelor of Science in Gerontology from Western in 2022. He is currently earning his second bachelor’s degree in nursing at Oregon Health & Science University, located on Western’s campus. As the first in his family to pursue a career in the medical field, Cruz has forged a path grounded in service, resilience, and leadership.

His academic excellence has been recognized with cum laude honors and induction into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society. While at Western, Cruz held multiple student leadership positions, including club sports and intramural supervisor and peer academic coach. At OHSU, he supports others as a peer tutor and class representative.

He is especially proud of his active role on campus and in the community, consistently seeking ways to make a meaningful impact. With plans to enter critical care and emergency medicine, he aims to attend graduate school to specialize in anesthesia, continuing his mission to seek new experiences and opportunities.

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.

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Pictured: Keynote speaker and student athlete, Tony Salinas.

MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University hosted the 39th Annual Wolves Athletic Auction presented by Oregon State Credit Union on Saturday, May 31, 2025. The event drew approximately 300 attendees to the campus of Western Oregon University, as well as dozens more to the online auction held the week prior. Thanks to generous donors, sponsors, bidders, and attendees, Wolves Athletics raised $ 224,775 across all aspects of the event.

“All proceeds from the event support scholarships and help enhance the overall experience for the over 400 student-athletes across Western’s 14 NCAA Division II sports and cheer,” said Randi Lydum, executive Director of Athletics at Western Oregon University. “A special thank you to our keynote speaker, Tony Salinas, our emcee for the evening, Hannah Rispler, and our auctioneer, Jim Taylor, all Western students and alumni.” 

Keynote speaker Tony Salinas shared his inspiring personal journey and talked about the family atmosphere of Wolves Athletics. “As athletes, it is easy to get caught up in stats, percentages, and wins, but that is not the reason I will never forget my senior year. I will remember this final season because of what it represented: resilience, family, and the power of a second chance. I found all that and more at Western.”

The Wolves Athletic Auction was presented by Oregon State Credit Union, back for its 20th year as presenting sponsor. “We were delighted to be back for our 20th year as the sponsor of the auction,” said Jordan Carpenter, Monmouth Branch Manager. “Our commitment to supporting the communities we serve is so important to us, and we deeply value student success. We’re grateful for the opportunity to support and empower our student-athletes.”

Additional auction sponsors include Vines, Tours, and Cruises; Ferguson Wellman; Arena Sports Bar and Grill; Rookies Sports Tap; Eola Hills Winery; Anne Allan Group; “C” Cable Realty; Miller Nash; Andersen Construction; Petals & Vines; Turner Construction; ServPro Team McGinnis; Salem Health; Partnerships in Community Living; the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce; Compass Visual; Xicha Brewing; and Parallel 45 Brewing.

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. –Theresa Hickey, Ph.D., has been selected as the new dean of the College of Education at Western Oregon University, effective June 30, 2025. Previously, Hickey was the associate dean of the College of Social Sciences and Education at California State University, Bakersfield, where she led in the largest of the four colleges with over 5,000 students. Hickey has demonstrated a strong record of leadership in developing innovative programs, enhancing student success, and promoting equity throughout her career in higher education.

“Dr. Hickey’s strong record of leadership, innovative program development, and dedication to enhancing student success and promoting equity make her an exceptional addition to Western,” said Provost Jose Coll. “Her extensive experience speaks volumes about her commitment to fostering a mission-centered college culture, and we are excited to see how her vision will shape the future of our College of Education.” 

Coll also thanks Mark Girod, Ph.D., who has served as the dean of the College of Education for over 13 years. “Our deepest gratitude to Dr. Girod for his dedicated service as the College of Education dean. His commitment and leadership have been invaluable to the university, and his contributions are truly appreciated.”

Hickey has also served as the dean of the College of Education and Counseling at Saint Martin’s University, where she led significant curriculum redesigns, implemented new student retention strategies, and fostered a mission-centered college culture. Hickey’s commitment to education is also reflected in her academic achievements. She holds a Ph.D. in Education with a focus on curriculum and instruction from Seattle Pacific University. She also earned a Master of Arts in English and American Literature from Marquette University and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Business. She also holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Seattle Pacific University with endorsements in secondary mathematics and middle school mathematics.

“I’m excited to be the new College of Education Dean and for the opportunity to serve this wonderful community,” said Hickey. “Regional institutions are vitally important for the role they play in uplifting entire communities. The work is so interconnected with families, livelihoods, and people that every positive move yields substantial impacts. WOU has the superpower to lift and partner with communities, and I’m honored to be able to join in this critical partnership with an amazing group of faculty and staff.”

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.

Pictured LTR: Dawson Officer, Gianni Villanueva, and Director of WOU’s Veterans Resource Center Logan Doerfler 

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University has received a new scholarship from 4 Spirits Distillery and 4 Spirits Foundation. The 4 Spirits Veteran Endowed Scholarship will support combat veteran students. 

4 Spirits Distillery is based in Corvallis, Oregon, and is owned by Western alumnus Dawson Officer ‘06, who was a business major. His wife, Kelly, is also an alumna and was a math major. This scholarship and distillery honors the memory of four brave combat soldiers with whom Officer served in the Oregon National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Brigade: Lt. Erik McCrae, Sgt. Justin Linden, Sgt. Justin Eyerly and Sgt. David Roustum. Tragically, they lost their lives while serving in Baghdad, Iraq, between 2004 and 2005. The distillery stands as a tribute to their sacrifice and dedication.

“The 4 Spirits Veteran Endowed Scholarship represents the long-term mission behind 4 Spirits Distillery, which is to support U.S. combat veterans with reintegration after they return home from services, and to educate our communities to support the needs of service members and veterans,” said Officer. “In honor of and dedication to the memories of these four fallen soldiers, this scholarship will provide financial assistance to help current combat veteran students pursue their education, become involved in their communities, and advance their lives.”

First scholarship recipient Gianni Villanueva expresses gratitude for receiving this scholarship. “Life has always been about storytelling, and I’ve never understood the sense of crafting a story that wasn’t my own. Growing up, just being a student wasn’t that impressive anymore, and I felt pressure to be more, and thought, ‘what better way to do that than to enlist’. I did this for me and my loved ones, and as a first-generation student, I get to break the stereotypical cycles that my family had. My goal is to flip that way of thinking and show them and everyone that had a fixed perception of me that greatness can be achieved if you work hard for it.”

Villanueva adds that if you have a goal, present it to the world, and places such as 4 Spirits Distillery will believe in you. He expresses how proud he is of the opportunity to represent the veteran community at Western Oregon University and looks forward to achieving more. “I am honored to be the first recipient of this scholarship and cannot wait to make the 4 Spirits Distillery family proud, my family, my peers, and especially myself, and one day, those after me.”

The scholarship will provide up to $1,500 in funding to a student and may be awarded for successive years upon completion of the application. The scholarship is also part of Western’s Wolves Rising Campaign, which supports the $10 million scholarship fundraising goal.

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About the Veterans Resource Center at Western Oregon University

The Veterans Resource Center at Western Oregon University supports approximately 145 military-affiliated students, including 75 student veterans, by providing a welcoming environment where they can access benefits guidance, academic support, and a strong sense of community. The VRC connects students with essential services, advocates on their behalf, and offers a dedicated space to study, recharge, and engage with others who share similar experiences, all to help them succeed both in and out of the classroom.

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, Veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. – On Thursday, May 15, over 80 students, staff, faculty, and alumni from Western Oregon University participated in the university’s first Advocacy Day at the State Capitol.

The day featured the Western Oregon Voices Choir, directed by Claire Hudkins, Ph.D., performing Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon and Garfunkel at the opening ceremonies of the Oregon House of Representatives. The choir, consisting of 12 singers and a three-member rhythm section, set an uplifting tone for the day’s advocacy efforts. Throughout the day, Western representatives met with over 50 legislative offices in a bipartisan and bicameral manner, discussing key priorities outlined by the Oregon Council of Presidents. These priorities include ensuring no less than $1.1 billion in the Public University Support Fund, allocating $450 million for the Oregon Opportunity Grant, funding for Strong Start Programming, and protecting funding for Basic Needs Navigators. 

“Investing in public higher education is crucial for the future of our students and our communities,” said President Jesse Peters. “It was truly inspiring to see so many dedicated WOU staff, faculty, students, and alumni come together to advocate for our university and higher education as a whole. Their commitment to ensuring access and support for all students demonstrates the collective belief that education is not just a personal benefit, but a vital investment in the future of Oregon.”

Decades of underinvestment in public higher education have shifted the financial burden onto students and families. Three decades ago, the state funded more than 60 percent of public university operating costs; today, that figure has dropped to less than 30 percent. As a result, Oregon public universities rank 44th in the nation for funding per student, while tuition rates remain the highest in the West. If this trend continues, fewer Oregon students will have access to essential education and skills needed for the state’s most in-demand jobs, making the $1.1 billion PUSF target critical. Public universities serve as economic engines for Oregon, generating over $10 billion in annual impact. They drive employment, support local businesses, and attract significant tourism to communities statewide. Locally, Western is one of the largest employers in Polk County, with a 2020 economic impact study by ECONorthwest showing a direct impact of $108 million in economic output for the region.

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.

Pictured LTR: Carla Macedo, Guthrie Romas, and Aubrey Laine Baker

MONMOUTH, Ore. – The English Department at Western Oregon University is proud to announce the 2025 Peter Sears Poetry Prize winners. This year marks a historic moment for the competition, with a freshman taking the top honor for the first time.

Freshman English major Guthrie Romas received first prize and $200 for his poem, “Spending Time with an Old Man in Bellingham.” 

“For the first time in the contest’s history, a first-year student has won the Peter Sears Poetry Prize,” said Henry Hughes, Ph.D., professor of Writing and Literature. “Guthrie is emerging as a powerful writer, and I look forward to working with him during his time here at Western.”

Carla Macedo, a senior English major with a focus on professional writing, earned second prize for her poem “Parking Garage.” Aubrey Laine Baker, also a senior English major, received third prize for “Snaggletooth.”

Winners will receive cash prizes and perform their winning work at the English session of the Academic Excellence Showcase on May 29, 2025.

Over 50 poems were submitted to the competition. A dedicated committee of English faculty and past recipients meticulously reviewed the submissions, forwarding ten exceptional poems to the final judge. This year’s final judge was Donna Henderson, Ph.D., a renowned poet and artist. 

“I found these poems alive to language, rich in sensory detail, fresh and surprising in their images, and able to hold space for emotional tensions and questions, rather than having to resolve them,” said Henderson. “So bravo and brava to each of the poets represented, and I hope we will see more of their words in the world!”

Learn more about the Peter Sears Poetry Prize

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore.  Western Oregon University announces its 2025 commencement on Saturday, June 14 at 10 a.m. on the MacArthur Field. Over 1,240 students are eligible to walk across the stage and graduate, completing a significant milestone in their lives. Nearly 50 percent of Western students are first-generation, meaning they are the first in their families to graduate with a four-year degree, and over 25 percent of Western students identify as Latiné/Hispanic. Western recently became the first public, four-year university in Oregon to achieve the official Hispanic-Serving Institution designation.

This year, WOU is honored to welcome Teresa Alonso León, a former Oregon State Representative and the first Indigenous Latina immigrant legislator in Oregon, as the speaker for Western’s 2025 Commencement Ceremony. A proud alumna of Western Oregon University, Alonso León earned her bachelor’s degree in social science in 2002 and went on to receive her Master of Public Administration from Portland State University. Her educational journey has paved the way for a distinguished career in public service.

Alonso León’s educational journey started when she was young, as she was the oldest of five and had to quickly learn how to delegate responsibilities. As a first-generation student, Western provided the support she needed to develop critical skills to achieve her career goals. 

“When I talk to students, including first-gen students, I tell them that Western Oregon University is the place that you need to be. It’s a place where you’re going to be able to achieve your goals and help you find the career that you want,” shared Alonso León. 

Before starting her consulting company, Parakata Consulting LLC, Alonso León served as a City Council Member for the City of Woodburn and as an Oregon State Representative from 2017 to 2022, which elevated her passion for serving her community. She continues to advocate for higher education, racial and social justice issues, including healthcare equity. She is currently the team lead for the Oregon Community Table on Postsecondary Education and Training, which is Oregon’s first statewide community advocacy group on higher education. They are focused on systemic transformation of our postsecondary education system through policy change and civic engagement training.

“We are honored to welcome Teresa Alonso León, a distinguished alumna of Western Oregon University and a dedicated advocate for public service, as our commencement speaker for this year. Her journey from a first-generation college student to becoming the first Indigenous and Latina Oregon State Representative exemplifies her spirit of determination and leadership,” said President Jesse Peters. “Her commitment to higher education, community service, and equity resonates deeply with our values at WOU. As she inspires our graduates at commencement, we celebrate her remarkable achievements and the impact she continues to make in advocating for the future of Oregon.”

Get more information about the 2025 Commencement Ceremony.

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.

Pictured: Ken Carano

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Ken Carano, Ph.D., has been selected as the T.H. Gentle Professor of Education for the 2025-2026 academic year at Western Oregon University. A Division of Education and Leadership professor, Carano specializes in social studies education.

During his tenure as the Gentle Professor, Carano will collaborate with teacher partners to integrate Latinè voices into curricula, resources, and educational materials. This initiative will culminate in an electronic book focused on Latinè histories and geographies, providing educators with lesson plans and primary sources free of charge.

The T.H. Gentle Professorship is the only endowed professorship at Western Oregon University, rotating annually through a competitive review and selection process. Established nearly 30 years ago by alumni and leaders in the College of Education, the award recognizes excellence in education.

Carano has been an integral partner with the Center for Geography Education in Oregon and has served as a consultant to the Secretary of State of Oregon for civics education. His previous experience includes volunteering with the Peace Corps in Suriname. “Dr. Carano is a respected leader in social studies education, and this recognition is well-deserved,” says Mark Girod, Dean of the College of Education.

Before joining higher education, Carano taught high school social studies in Sarasota, Florida. His scholarship focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion, both locally and globally. He has authored and co-authored over 50 academic articles and a book on middle school social studies and is set to publish a co-edited, open-source book titled Teaching Black Histories and Geographies through Primary Sources this summer.

Carano’s work emphasizes finding ways to decenter his own privileged voice, prioritizing learning through others’ perspectives rather than merely teaching about them.

“Considering the many amazing colleagues who have preceded me in being named the T.H. Gentle Professor of Education, this is quite an honor. Additionally,  I am grateful to have colleagues supporting me in editing an open-source book of Latinè lesson plans authored by diverse K-12 educators through this endowment.” 

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.

Pictured LTR: Alejandra Campoverdi and Raul Sagrero Gaona

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University hosted the 30th annual César E. Chávez Leadership Conference (CECLC) to full capacity for the first time since 2019 earlier this month.

More than 950 participants came together to attend leadership, cultural, and educational workshops, connecting students with colleges and career representatives, and celebrating the achievements of Oregon’s Latiné community.

“CECLC opens doors for students to see themselves not just in college, but as leaders in higher education and beyond. Surrounded by welcoming communities and powerful presenters, they begin to believe in their own potential and the limitless possibilities ahead,” shared Cristian Mendez Garcia, assistant director of Hispanic-Serving Institution Initiatives. “It’s a privilege to host these incredible students and witness the spark of their future take hold.” 

This year’s keynote speaker was Alejandra Campoverdi, a nationally recognized advocate for educational opportunity and women’s health, a bestselling author, founder, and former White House aide.

“It’s not an overstatement to say that CECLC changes lives. The inspiration and sense of possibility in the room was palpable, and I’m grateful to have been welcomed into such a vibrant community-driven conference,” shared Campoverdi.

For nearly three decades, Latiné students from across Oregon have gathered to honor the legacy of César E. Chávez and to celebrate leadership, culture, and community. What began in 1990 as a small gathering of Hispanic high school students from Portland Public Schools has grown into a powerful movement.

“As a first-generation college student, attending conferences like the CECLC and receiving scholarships like the First Gen Fund have allowed me to grow as an influential leader in my community,” shared Raul Sagrero Gaona, a fourth-year student at Western, majoring in Spanish and Psychology. “Being recognized by the First Gen Fellowship recognizes my journey as the first in my family to attend college, honoring both my achievements and the sacrifices of those who have supported me along the way. These opportunities have inspired me to advocate and bring awareness to the challenges we face daily in our Hispanic communities.”

The CECLC continues to be a vital platform for empowering Latiné youth, fostering leadership skills, and promoting cultural pride. As the conference celebrates its legacy, it also looks forward to inspiring the next generation of leaders in Oregon and beyond.

CECLC 2025 Highlights: https://youtu.be/vGKwfFiKXUo

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.