MONMOUTH, Ore. –The Western Oregon University Foundation released its annual report for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. The report includes total contributions to the Foundation for 2023-2024, and recent budgetary year results on Endowment, Scholarships, and Competitive Grants.

Contributions totaled $5,137,525 for the fiscal year–one of the strongest fundraising years in the Foundation’s history– and include all new outright or committed private gifts and grants made to the WOU Foundation. The Foundation received gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations, and contributions increased almost 78 percent in the 2024 fiscal year from the prior year.

Scholarships and student aid awards surpassed $1 million for the fifth year, with the WOU Foundation investing $1,259,233 back to students with emergency or financial needs, academic merit, athletics participation, and more.

Katie Wojke, vice president of advancement and executive director of the Western Oregon University Foundation shares that growth in areas that positively impact students is made possible due to each and every generous contribution. “Private philanthropy and volunteer service are critical to supporting students during their higher education journey. Thank you to each and every donor and volunteer who is making an impact and lifting up Western and its students.”

The Foundation and University have also seen an increase in the number of volunteers who are giving back to Western in creative ways.

“It has been 37 years since I graduated, and the more time that passes the more I value the education and experience I received. I volunteer at WOU out of a sincere desire to give back to an institution that has given me so much,” says Doug Ladd ‘88, chair of the WOU Alumni Board.

View the 2023-2024 Annual Report.

 

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About The Western Oregon University Foundation

The Western Oregon University Foundation was founded in 1965 and is the fundraising arm of Western Oregon University. A nonprofit corporation, governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees with IRS 501(c)3 status, the WOU Foundation’s scholarship program includes more than 250 donor-funded scholarships. In addition, the foundation manages nearly 300 funds for academic and student programs.

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MONMOUTH, Ore. – Since 1996, Western Oregon University has housed a national public safety training and technical assistance institute, called the Western Community Policing Institute. 

WCPI has been at the forefront of providing innovative training and technical assistance nationwide on issues vital to community safety and wellness. It is a trusted resource for public safety agencies, community organizations, and individuals seeking to enhance their understanding and implementation of public safety initiatives that incorporate effective community policing strategies. 

As part of its commitment to promoting overall community safety and wellness, WCPI’s current focus is supporting Native American public safety agencies offering a wide range of training courses and workshops. These include areas such as community engagement, problem-solving techniques, crime prevention strategies, leadership tools, and effective communication skills. By addressing these critical areas, WCPI empowers law enforcement professionals to develop proactive approaches to foster trust, collaboration, and mutual respect within their communities.

WCPI’s impact extends beyond its local community. Through its partnerships with other public safety agencies, the institute has been able to share its expertise and best practices with law enforcement agencies and community leaders nationwide. This collaborative effort has resulted in the successful implementation of public safety initiatives in regions across the nation, leading to safer and more inclusive communities.

Learn more about Western Community Policing Institute 

 

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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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Photo: Rick Bailey; president at SOU, Kelly Ryan; president at EOU, Sheila Clough; chair of the SOU Board of Trustees, Jesse Peters; president at WOU, Nagi Naganathan; president at OIT.
Photo credit: Wenzao University

KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan — The Presidents of Oregon’s public polytechnic and regional universities (TRUs)–Western Oregon University, Southern Oregon University, Eastern Oregon University, and Oregon Institute of Technology–signed a memorandum of understanding on Aug. 15 with Wenzao University in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

The MOU aims to foster teacher-student exchanges, student mobility programs, joint research initiatives, and Chinese language programs, all with the goal of cultivating international and cross-disciplinary talent.

The delegation was led by Oregon State Representative Paul Evans (District 20) and was made up of key leaders from Oregon’s universities, including Jesse Peters, president of Western Oregon University; Kelly Ryan, president of Eastern Oregon University; Rick Bailey, president of Southern Oregon University; and Nagi Naganathan, president of Oregon Institute of Technology; along with Sheila Clough, chair of the SOU Board of Trustees. 

The signing ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai, Oregon State Representative Paul Evans, former state Representative Brian Clem, and Director of the Kaohsiung Branch of the American Institute in Taiwan Neil H. Gibson, Wen Hongguo, leader of the cultural newsgroup of the Kaohsiung Branch of the American Institute in Taiwan, and additional cultural and educational stakeholders. This partnership marks a new chapter in global academic cooperation as Wenzao University continues to establish itself as a hub of international education.

“Wenzao’s alliance with a well-known higher education institution in the United States has great symbolic significance,” Wenzao University President Zhuang Huiling said.

Huiling added that Wenzao University was founded in 1966 by a group of nuns from the Saint Ursuline religious order in Rome and has always adhered to the spirit of “internationalization” when running the school. Presently, Wenzao University has more than 320 sister schools around the world, where their students have the opportunity to study abroad. At the same time, Wenzao hosts students from 19 countries to integrate multiple cultures into the campus.

This is an important milestone between Wenzao University and the public technical and regional universities in Oregon. It not only strengthens each institution’s connection with the world but also opens up a new era for academic exchanges and development.

The presidents from Oregon’s TRU institutions value the importance of international educational exchanges.

“International educational exchanges are essential for fostering global understanding and collaboration,” the presidents said in a joint statement. “They provide students and faculty invaluable opportunities to learn from diverse perspectives, enriching both their academic and personal growth. We are deeply grateful for the warm hospitality extended during our visit and look forward to nurturing and growing this partnership.”

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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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MONMOUTH, Ore. –The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees recently elected Angela Fasana to serve as the third board chair. 

Fasana has been a Western Oregon University Board of Trustee since July 2022, (her current term ends June 30, 2026) and serves on the Finance and Administration Committee. In her new role, she will also chair the Executive Governance Committee.

Fasana will be replacing Trustee Betty Komp as chair. Komp, a Western alumni, was elected to serve on the Board of Trustees in 2017 after retiring from the Oregon House of Representatives. Komp also served as a teacher and school administrator in the Woodburn Public School District.  In 2018, she was elected as the second Board of Trustees Chair, replacing the first Chair, Jim Bumgartner. Komp was re-elected as chair in June 2020 and 2022.

“I’d like to thank Trustee Betty Komp for her exceptional service as Chair of the Board of Trustees,” said Western Oregon University President Jesse Peters. “Her leadership, dedication, and commitment to our university have made a lasting impact.”

Fasana earned her sociology degree from Portland State University and a Juris Doctorate from Northwestern School of Law at Lewis and Clark College. She is a member of the Tribal Nation of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and has served the tribe in multiple capacities since the mid-90s. Fasana currently serves as the Education Department Manager and served as Court Administrator for the Grand Ronde Tribal Court for 19 years. Previous roles include Tribal Liaison and a Willamina School District board member.

“I am looking forward to working with Angela Fasana as chair of the Board of Trustees,” said Western Oregon University President Jesse Peters. “She understands the power of higher education to shape lives in positive ways. As the first Native American chair of the BOT, her service also marks an important moment for Western Oregon University, and I welcome her partnership as we implement our new strategic plan.”

Growing up in Willamina, where Fasana’s mother worked in the mills and her father worked as a logger, she learned the value of hard work and the importance of higher education. After graduating high school, she attended Western Oregon University and then transferred to Portland State University to be closer to her high school boyfriend, now husband of 30 years.

Fasana shares that she’s always had a special place in her heart for Western and recommends it to students from the tribe. “When approached about serving on the Board, I was hesitant due to other commitments I had made, however when the opportunity presented itself again, I was happy to serve,” adds Fasana. She also shares that her grandmother was a very influential person in her life and was a catalyst for decisions about higher education and all that it can contribute to one’s life. “It means a great deal to me to give back to the university with my service in hopes that it is helping others with their life journeys.”

Fasana is married to Ariah Fasana, a high school coach for 30 years and teacher for 27 years. They have two children, Justin and Cheyanne, a son-in-law, Tyler, and two granddaughters. Fasana’s daughter is an alum of Western’s education graduate program.  

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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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MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University hosted the 17th season of the Oregon Game Project Challenge, a video game development competition for middle and high school students. 

Each fall, OGPC announces a theme for the year’s competition, which is typically held in May. Teams then work together to design a video game based on that theme to present at the main event. Students interact with judges, event attendees, and tech industry professionals during the competition.

This past May, 60 teams (285 students) participated, representing over 30 schools from Oregon and southern Washington. Each team has between 2-7 members and an adult coach. See this year’s winners.

Western has hosted the competition since 2017 and will host it again next year. The date for next year’s event will be announced this fall. “OGPC seeks to inspire students to develop various skills based on their passion for making video games,” shares Andrew Scholer, director of OGPC. “Students write code, create art and music, craft a story, and design gameplay. They learn project management and teamwork as they collaborate over multiple months to deliver a project. And they practice their soft skills as they present their project to judges and other students.”

OGPC was started by a non-profit arm of the Software Association of Oregon (now the Technology Association of Oregon). In 2015 it was spun off as an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit also called Oregon Game Project Challenge. Learn more.

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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: From left to right: These individuals were recognized for 15 years of service: Ashley Schaumburg, Shawn Sellers, Michael Rose, Jenna Otto, Anna Mahony, Michael Freeman, President Peters, Julie Grammer, and Carmen Caceda.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University recently honored staff and faculty at the annual recognition ceremony and reception for their outstanding leadership, tenure achievements, promotions, and Emeritus status. Staff and faculty were also recognized for their involvement in securing grants and for years of service at the university.  Below are the names of the award and promotion recipients. View the grants and years of service recognition list.

Leadership Awards

ASWOU President
Hunter Hall

Faculty Senate President
Dr. Stephen Scheck, Biology

Outgoing Staff Senate President
Adrian Trujillo, Student Success and Advising

Mario & Alma Pastega Staff Excellence
LouAnn Vickers, The President’s Office

Mario & Alma Pastega: Excellence in Scholarship & Creativity
Dr. Patricia Goldsworthy-Bishop, History

Mario & Alma Pastega: Excellence in Teaching
Dr. Brooke Nott, Psychological Sciences

Mario & Alma Pastega: Excellence in Service
Dr. Earlene Camarillo, Politics, Policy, and Administration

Faculty Advisor of the Year
Dr. Kevin Walczyk, Music

Staff Advisor of the Year
Andres Hernandez-Galvan, Student Enrichment Program

Tenure & Promotion

Promoted to Associate Professor & Awarded Tenure
Dr. Shari Hopkins, Education & Leadership

Promoted to Professor
Dr. Dana Schowalter, Communication
Dr. Joshua Schulze, Education & Leadership
Dr. Tad Shannon, Computer Science
Daniel Tankersly, Creative Arts
Dr.  Emily Vala-Haynes, Health & Exercise Science

Awarded Tenure
Chelle Batchelor, Library & Academic Innovation
Dr. Shaun Hansen, Business/Economics

Emeritus Awardees:

Dean Braa, Sociology
Laurie Burton, Mathematics
George Cabrera, Education & Leadership
David Hargreaves, English Studies
Mark Henkels, Politics, Policy & Administration
John Leadley, Business & Economics
Frank Nevius, Communication
Cornelia Paraskevas, English Studies
Adele Schepige, Education & Leadership

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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: Congresswoman Andrea Salinas.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces its 2024 commencement on Saturday, June 15 at 10 a.m. on the MacArthur Field. Over 1,237 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.

A first-generation student herself, Western is proud to announce its commencement speaker, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas. Salinas, the daughter of a Mexican immigrant, is one of the first Latinas to represent Oregon in Congress. After putting herself through college, Salinas pursued public service as a congressional aide and policy advisor, as well as an advocate for labor unions, environmental groups, and reproductive rights organizations. In 2017, she was appointed to the Oregon House of Representatives and served through the end of her term in 2022. In the Oregon House of Representatives, she served as House Majority Whip and was the Chair of the House Health Care Committee.

In Congress, Salinas is proud to serve on the House Agriculture and House Science, Space, and Technology Committees, where she crafts policies that will help level the playing field for Oregon farmers and rural communities and create more good-paying, union jobs. As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Mental Health Caucus, she has prioritized making mental health care and addiction treatment more accessible and affordable.

“We are honored to welcome Congresswoman Salinas as the keynote speaker for this year’s commencement ceremony,” remarked President Jesse Peters. “As both a first-generation American and a first-generation college student herself, she understands the transformative power of education. Her remarks will undoubtedly inspire our graduates, highlighting the possibilities that lie ahead for them. Western Oregon University is the only four-year public university serving her district. We value her advocacy for higher education and the support she has extended to our university.”

“As a first-generation college student myself, I am so grateful for the opportunity to speak at this year’s commencement ceremony,” said Rep. Salinas. “Growing up, my parents taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and community—the very same values that Western instills in each and every one of its students. I know these graduates have the skills they need to succeed, and I look forward to congratulating the Class of 2024 as they take the next big step into the future.”

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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.  Together we succeed.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to highlight the accomplishments of former Oregon State Representative and alum Teresa Alonso Leon ‘02. Alonso Leon received a bachelor’s degree in social science from Western and a Master of Public Administration from Portland State University, leading her to a career in public service.  

Alonso Leon’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 other 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 Leon. 

Before starting her own consulting company, Alonso Leon served as a City Council Member for the City of Woodburn and as an Oregon State Representative from 2017 to 2023, which elevated her passion for serving her community. Today, she continues to advocate for higher education, leadership development, and healthcare equity.

Alonso Leon’s story is a testament to Western’s commitment to supporting students. Her dedication to serving her community and others is truly inspirational.  

Watch Teresa Alonso Leon share her story

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University President Jesse Peters announced the appointment of Venu Nair as the General Counsel for the institution. Nair will begin this role Oct. 23.

“Mr. Nair’s deep experience in higher education and his commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access initiatives make him a great fit. He is familiar with many aspects of higher education and is eager to continue serving students and employees as we further strengthen Western. His approachable personality and collaborative philosophy are assets to our community and to Oregon, and I look forward to having him on campus,” expressed President Peters.

Nair brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Western community. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Alabama, a Master of Business Administration from the George Washington School of Business, and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Texas.

“Western Oregon University aligns perfectly with my value system. Specifically, it is of utmost importance to celebrate and highlight both our similarities and differences, to champion individuals who are breaking educational boundaries, and to provide a learning space that is conducive for every voice to be heard and accepted,” shares Nair.

Prior to joining the team at Western, Nair spent eight years at the University of Texas at San Antonio, where he most recently served as the Interim Chief Legal Officer. His tenure at UTSA allowed him to develop a profound understanding of the legal intricacies within higher education institutions.

The legal team at Western offers extensive in-house legal services, such as employment law, student affairs, grievances and complaints resolution, collective bargaining negotiations, the development and implementation of institutional policies, and the management of legal actions.

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, founded in 1856 in Monmouth, is the state’s oldest public university. Serving about 4,000 students, WOU is a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution with about 70% of the student population being from Oregon. A significant portion of attendees are members of under-represented groups, veterans, or non-traditional students. WOU is Oregon’s campus of choice for those seeking a transformative education in a supportive, student-centered learning community where classes are taught by faculty. Together we succeed.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Multicultural Student Services and Programs (MSSP) hosted its annual Diversity Scholars recognition celebration for the 2023-2024 academic year, dedicated to celebrating students’ academic excellence and commitment to diversity.

The event was emceed by America Salazar, a junior and the Multicultural Coordinator, along with Louie Arce, the assistant director of MSSP. President Jesse Peters and Provost Jose Coll warmly welcomed the gathering, and the audience was treated to a captivating performance by Destiny Cannaday, a 2022 scholar, and fellow student Rosabelle Surla.

The evening’s inspirational keynote address was delivered by Michael Waller, a 2008 alumnus and former scholar, and an inspiring essay written by 2023 scholar Julia Ros, was shared. The presentation of certificates was carried out by Anna Hernandez-Hunter, the director of MSSP.

Hernandez-Hunter expressed deep pride in the accomplished scholars, remarking, “I am immensely proud of our students for their dedication in attaining these scholarships. A significant number of our Diversity Scholars are first-generation college students, embarking on a distinctive journey in higher education, one that promises to leave a lasting, positive impact on both their own lives and their families.”

The event concluded with remarks from Luanne Carrillo-Avalos, the assistant director of MSSP, and Blanca Miranda Aguilar, the program advisor and coordinator of MSSP.

The Diversity Scholars recipients are listed below:

Ahmani Hopoi

Alejandra Ceja Montes

Alondra Martinez 

Andrea Ambrocio Reyes

Andy Ruiz Perez

Arianna Velasco 

Atlas Jimenez-Sprague 

Belen Santiago Hernandez 

Blanca Avila 

Bobby Barnaby Bryce

Brenda Garcia Garibay

Cathlene Hermann

Cheydon Herkshan

Daisia Fulton

Danni Wilson

Daphne Cruzana

Diana Heintz-Rios

Elizabeth Alvarez-Mendoza

Elizabeth Morales-Marquez

Ellyana Suek*

Emma Higashi

Erick Gonzalez-Bejar

Erika Caldera Chairez

Esvin Sanchez Mendez

Ho’ala K. Meyer

JaKari Weeks 

Jason Magana Velasquez

Jesus Guerrero Vazquez

Julia Ros

Karen Yanelis Garcia

Kimberely Machorro

Koffi Kouame 

Maria Guadalupe Mendoza-Ceja

Mateo Maga

Maz Robinson

Monica Cuatra Flores

Nancy Mota Gonzalez 

Nathan Hurtado

Nicolas Landazuri 

Nimsi Arellano

Noah Scott

Noel Alvarez

Olivia Anderson

Osvaldo Ascencio-Mendoza

Perla San Miguel Morales

Quincy Alexandra Bravo Lope

Raul Yahir Perez

Remedan Seman

Sandra Madrigal Nava

Tamerra-Maritza Cervantes Carlos 

Tiffany Nash 

Tobias Regan-Vienop

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, founded in 1856 in Monmouth, is the state’s oldest public university. Serving about 4,000 students, WOU is a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution with about 70% of the student population being from Oregon. A significant portion of attendees are members of under-represented groups, veterans, or non-traditional students. WOU is Oregon’s campus of choice for those seeking a transformative education in a supportive, student-centered learning community where classes are taught by faculty. Together we succeed.