Author: johnsonmw

Pictured starting from left: Halley Read, Ph.D., OTR/L, Katie O’Day President, OTAO

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Halley Read Ph.D., OTR/L, doctoral capstone coordinator for the Occupational Therapy Doctorate program, was recently the recipient of the Occupational Therapy Association of Oregon (OTAO) President’s Award.

This award is presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to the occupational therapy profession through their formal roles within the association or through other efforts. Read’s recognition stems from her exceptional advocacy and legislative policy support work, as well as her direct collaboration with and mentorship of OTAO’s current president.

Read also served as an ambassador for the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), playing a pivotal role in promoting OT in Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers. Additionally, she served as the Oregon Representative for AOTA’s Representative Assembly, effectively addressing the concerns and interests of OT professionals at both the state and federal levels. These combined efforts have been instrumental in advocating for OT professionals.

“It’s important for people to know that the OTD program isn’t just a new program to Western. It’s a team filled with remarkable people who are ready to support future OTD students and their profession,” says Read. “We value using our OT clinical training to create better access and pathways for our students and not limiting it to just clinical experience, but also the role of OT professionals in legislative change to shape the future of the profession.” 

Learn more about the new OTD program starting this fall.

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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.

Photo of Breeann Flesch, Ph.D.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces the appointment of Breeann Flesch Ph.D., as interim dean of Graduate Studies and Research. Flesch assumed the role on Jan. 1, 2024.

Flesch joined Western in 2011 and brings diverse experience to her new role. She received her doctorate in applied mathematics from the University of Colorado-Denver. She has served in a variety of leadership roles during her tenure, including mathematics department head, computer science division chair, and general education task force co-chair. 

“I am enthusiastic about continuing my service in this capacity. I look forward to fostering the dynamic research community on our campus, dedicated to addressing challenges and providing insights for the Oregon community and beyond,” shared Flesch. “Additionally, I am excited about guiding and supporting students in graduate programs as they pursue further education and career advancement.”

In 2018, she co-established and currently co-organizes the student organization FEM in STEM, along with the interim Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Kristin Latham-Scott, Ph.D., and Leanne Merrill, Ph.D., associate professor of mathematics. This group works to connect and support female, non-binary, and other underserved and allied students in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields. Their focus is on education, support, and community connection to tangible STEM role models who have a variety of careers and career paths.

“Dr. Flesch brings an invaluable skill set to the graduate program and our research office. Her extensive experience and visionary approach are poised to elevate both areas significantly,” said Provost Jose Coll. “With a clear vision in place, she’ll not only enhance our graduate programs but also fortify our research endeavors, ensuring our students receive exceptional support and unlock new avenues for academic excellence.”

The Western community looks forward to the continued contribution of Flesch as she leads the graduate studies and research program, guiding both faculty and students toward excellence in education and research.

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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.

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Since 1856, Western Oregon University has been committed to the region, to serving the people of Oregon, and to the core values of student success. As an innovative public liberal arts institution historically serving first-generation college students from all four corners of the state, Western is announcing the implementation of a strength-based grade approach that recognizes, embraces, and focuses on student competencies and achievements.

Beginning this fall term, the institutional academic grading regulation will reflect a grade range of A through D; the letter grades of D- and F will be replaced with No Credit (NC) for undergraduate students. The grade of NC will be used in instances where the student does not meet the course learning objectives. The difference is that the grade of NC will not negatively impact student GPAs. 

Provost Jose Coll explains that the new grade annotation will not lower standards but is instead a way to focus on student learning outcomes and increase retention and graduation rates. “GPAs will now be a true reflection of student success and course mastery; failures will no longer mask the demonstrated abilities of our students when they pass courses,” he says. Coll also adds that this practice has been in place for decades at other higher education institutions such as Brown University while others such as Prescott College, New College, Hampshire College, and Evergreen College to name a few have opted for narrative transcripts that highlight the student’s performance in a given field of study.

The NC grade will also empower faculty and advising staff to proactively help students potentially transition to another degree or major, enabling them to explore and discover academic areas that interest them. Exploration and change of major, have historically been made more difficult by significantly lowered GPAs resulting from weighted grades of F. Coll shares that lower GPAs create barriers to registration, financial aid, and transferring. “Now, students at Western will have a new incentive to remain in classes longer, rather than dropping them out of fear of getting an F.”

This change is also intended to alleviate the pressure of learning, foster academic exploration, reduce grade anxiety, and shift focus to the student’s academic possibilities, and strengths. This is key since many students who struggle in a course in their first year of college and receive an F grade are discouraged from remaining engaged; their GPAs slip away, which in many instances results in students leaving college with debt and no degree. For example, a Western student earning an F during their first two quarters is 60 percent less likely to be retained. 

Conversely, students who earn NC in courses designated as Satisfactory/No Credit have a retention rate of 83 percent. The problem is especially acute in certain fields, and in particular with first-generation college students or students entering college from low-income families or traditionally underserved communities, a phenomenon that has contributed to national student debt being held by one-third of the population without a degree or 40 million Americans.

“We believe in the growth, learning, and potential of all Western Oregon University students, and this grading standard lets everyone know that we plan to walk with them every step of the way,” said President Jesse Peters.

Read the FAQ page

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’s Smith Fine Arts Series is proud to present the Rainbow Dance Theatre’s “Maria de Buenos Aires” on January 19, 2024. This interactive performance will mesmerize the audience with its display of dancing lights.

The dance company is local to Polk County and offers world-class choreography and technology. Darryl Thomas, professor of Theatre/Dance at Western, is the artistic director. The show will feature three extraordinary performances and include wearable electronic costumes, props, and puppets. These performances aim to ignite excitement and curiosity about the technological components of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) learning and push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of dance.

The dance company will host two educational outreach performances for local K-8 students on January 18. Nearly 1,000  students will attend. These events allow the company to educate students on STEM technology through dance.

“Rainbow Dance Theatre is such an incredible group of performers and educators. I had the privilege of being one of the only people physically in the audience for their last outreach event in 2022,” shared Andi Moring, director of the Smith Fine Arts Series. “Not only will there be students in the room this year, but they will fill every seat in the auditorium. I am thrilled!”

Western’s Smith Fine Art Series is committed to bringing exceptional art experiences to the community. The support for similar outreach events is greatly appreciated and ensures the continuation of these enriching programs. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary performance by the Rainbow Dance Theatre. Join the performance on January 19 at 7:30 pm for an unforgettable evening of dance and technology.

For those interested in donating to the Smith Fine Arts Series.

To purchase tickets for the Rainbow Dance Theatre January show.

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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. As of 2023, the WOU Foundation has approximately $26 million in assets and a permanent endowment of $22 million.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces the undergraduate students that have been named to the Honor Roll and President’s List for their academic honors for fall 2023. In recognition of academic achievement, the university makes public at the close of each term an honor roll of undergraduate students who earn 12 or more credits that are not of a pass/no pass nature and who earn a grade point average of 3.50 or higher.

The following Western students have been named to the Fall 2023 Honor Roll List:

Students from Oregon cities

Adair Village
Caleb Ness
Lanie Happy
Katie Hay

Albany
Libby Aithwaite
Carson Austin
Kaden Baker
Emma Bales
Zaley Bennett
Sean Boettiger
Rebecca Briggs
Yasmin Castaneda Benavides
Alexis Chapman
Bianca Compton-Castilla
David Echevarria
Bobbie Esplin
Saige Garland
Jacob Glen
Yuliana Heern Rojas
Zane Hix
Jenna Holcomb
Faith Howle
Amy Huskey
Monét Jackson
Haley James
Taylor Jones
Mari Lemus-Sanchez
Peighton Markwood
Lauren McCool
Tayten McKamey
Alyssa Mendoza
Greyshia Mercado
Hayden Mickelberry
Jamie Myrick-Duckett
Julie Narvaez
Gretchen Olufson
Logan Parker
Raechel Presson
Madison Rice
Emily Sears
Emily Shanafelt
Kari Shaw
Jace Soehl
Joseph Stevenson
Ahni Washburn
Charles Williams
Samantha Winkler
Kyler Wolfe
Hailie Wright
Kelsie Younce

Aloha
Jacey Carmean
Michelle Gadbois
Daniel Ortega

Amity
Alexander Bliven
Aiden Brown
Jeremiah Distler

Astoria
Bailey Kaul
Michael Kee
Nicole Shoop

Aumsville
Moises Leal Zepeda
Brittany Lucas
Jacob Persons
Ben Roth
Lillian Roth
Lunafreyja Schafer
Lindsey Yechout

Aurora
Sophie Davenport
Krysta Nelson

Baker City
Andrew Ferns

Bandon
Holly Hutton

Banks
Ian Bodine
Aneli Godinez-Martinez
Sydney Maller

Beaverton
Michaela Brown
Rebecca Brown
Bailey Browning
Meredith Butler
Rylie Cader
Jenna Crouse
Noemi Evangelista
Mervi Foster
Adriana Garcia
Riley Groshong
Krista Haas
Justin Hughes
Aidan Ionis
Marta Kribs
MacKenzie Leslie
Marie Mazzotta
Magdalena Medrano Escobedo
Anthony Mendez
Zoey Merriman
Shantelle Montero
Nic Ostlund-Arce
Tom Overlund
Aubree Parga
Senetenari Porotesano
Karla Ramos
Angeles Reyes Mondragon
Quinn Ridder
Julia Ros
Kira Shelton
Jadyn Smith
Kota Swaney
Noely Torres Gutierrez
Layla William
Brenda Zamudio

Bend
Jayda Crawford
Tessa Dodge
Alexander Grignon
Alissa Hull
Sophie Matlock
Emily Olson
Carson Perl
America Salazar
Titus Schulz
Sarah Stewart
Caitlin Wheeler

Blachly
Jasper Beck

Blodgett
Ella Mainwaring

Boardman
Jessica Amaya
Natalie Lomeli
Leslie Lopez
Halie Orcutt

Bonanza
Sophie Thompson

Brookings
Allison Graves

Camas Valley
Max Brown

Canby
Mia Carroll
Maddax Clark
Diana Heintz-Rios

Cannon Beach
Emma Brown

Canyonville
Greg Reedy

Carlton
Gretchen Sims

Central Point
Alyssa Kilbane
Jacob Memmott
Chloe Staley
Abby Zolkoske

Clackamas
Olivia Doane
Rachel Morrison
Denise Ramirez-Sanchez
Nathan Richardson

Clatskanie
Stephen Hartley
Maya Helmen
Grace Tallman

Coburg
Breanna Lindsey

Coos Bay
Sierra Brouse
Kodee Harwood
Shayonna Tripp

Coquille
Lily Ortis
Keira Breitkreutz

Corbett
Rowan Vasen

Cornelius
Yamil Gaona-Miranda
Erika Gonzalez-Moreno
Vanessa Martinez-Hernandez
Molly Powell
Nora Robison
Andrea Sayago-Rauda

Corvallis
Laura Alvarado-Trejo
Drew Armour
Tate Ashley
Leela Ayres
Alexandra Beattie
Grace Bixby
Kanoa Blake
Willow Bothwell
Regina Chacon
Sydney Conklin
Elizabeth Doty
Taylor Fitzgerald
Thea Fuerstenau
Kelly Gardner
Grace Hargett
Ryan Harmes
Haley Hass
Samuel Herford
Meiping Hong
Leomaris Kelley
Kaiya Leamy
Grace McAlister
Nathan Mitchell
Moksha Mokma
Max Morano
Maxwell Patel
Yannie Reyes-Alvarez
Kylee Salinas
Toni Viramontes
Andrew Wolf
Cameron Wright

Cottage Grove
Gracie Arnold
Hailey Cook
Gabriel Cortes
Nicole Derrick
Char Hawks
Piper Youngmayr

Culver
Shanti Rosales

Dallas
Logan Beck
Maddie Blanchard
Braden Bollman
Danielle Bosse
Katelyn Cooley
Naomi Cruickshank
Drea Dalke
Amity Deters
Lukas Dyer
Seth Ellingsworth
Measia Fenn
Kala Geissinger
Jamie Glendinning
Luke Hagedorn
Daria Harris
Jake Hendrickson
Brieanna Howard
Caleb Ihne
Saarah Johnson
Antonette Jurewicz
Morgan Kumnick
Ashlie Lee
Cameron Mance
Braxton McFarland
Nicole McKinney
Justus Mikkelsen
Wesley Mullins
Benjamin Nelson
Cassy Parker
Brady Parksion
Shane Pelinski
Riley Petersen
Shelby Rayburn
Katie Reimer
Angie Rodriguez
Daniel Ryden
Tommy Segovia
Maverick Smith
Kameron Spicer
Courtney Stalmann
Lily Toma
Dawn Waddell
Danielle Wagner
Cora Watkin
Emily Webb
Amy Beth Whitfield

Damascus
Noah Maestas
Katie Stoner
Anneliese Stricker

Dayton
Ethan Hedgecock
Catie Jacks
Caspian Price

Depoe Bay
Josef Kavadas

Dufur
Derek Frakes

Eddyville
Madison Huhn

Estacada
Travis Jackson
Trinity Murin

Eugene
Ashlyn Bitikofer
Blu Blakely
Molly Blanchette
Naomi Collins
Russell Farr
Grace Gartley
Diana Gray
Skyler Hanson
Briana Kubli
Stephanie Leon-Leon
Daphne Malpass
Augustine Manalansan
Emma McDaniel
Leslie Monjaras
Melvin Niles
Phoebe Notenboom
Shannon Pickering
Grace Savage
Sierra Taylor
Jose Vasquez Maya
Ashley Weaver

Fairview
Sydney Keller
Noe San Luis

Falls City
Brynn Abeling
Sophie Davis
Amber Houghtaling
Kassidi Thompson

Forest Grove
Jessie Bristow
Persephone Green
Simon Kimberly
Ellie Mosier
Alyssa Nguyen
Gabriela Orr
Kat Rieger
Alan Rincon Gaona
Kelsie Shirley
Philip Staniunas
Alison Vaandering

Gales Creek
Rylie Voivedich

Gaston
Jayson Johnson

Gervais
Sarahi Bazan Guerrero
Kellen Betancourt
Jessica Contreras Froylan
Patrick Iannotti
Anessa McCarroll
Elianeth Pineda
Daisy Ponce
John Sanchez
Autumn Tanner
Celi Vasquez

Glide
Victoria Linne

Gold Beach
Gabrielle Clifford

Grants Pass
Devin Collins
James Duane
Tiara Hauser
Rayme McCallan
Evangelyn Tobin

Gresham
Brittany Austin
Autumn Beck
Jaidah Garcia
Sammy Gates
Kennedy Grandi-Smith
Catrina Kelly
Ikemba Orisakwe
Benjamin Rulla
Grace Sayles
Emily Schneider
Sophia Wilson

Halsey
Megan James
Allison Keel

Happy Valley
Derek House
Carson Yon

Harrisburg
Jillian Barnhurst
Adrian Esgate

Hebo
Gustavo Camacho-Jr

Heppner
Daralynn Teeman

Hermiston
Crystal Chairez
Grace Lind

Hillsboro
Jose Francisco Aguilar Rojas
Christine Anders
Mariam Anderson-Taha
Jeffrey Falla
Andrew Gallina
Brittani Geniza
Justyn Herzog
Maria Madrigal
Alison Maldonado
Curran Mitzel
Yahir Ocampo Navarro
Eugenia Perez
Jasmine Pfafman
Lourdes Salazar
Areli Santos Gomez
Ruslan Skorokhod
Coen Stapleton
Alia Takashima
Carlos Urenda
Amanda Vanderhoof
Manuel Vasquez Vasquez
Camila Villastrigo
Abigail Wallace
Samantha Watters

Hood River
Clay Noteboom

Hubbard
Isabelle Jones
Cecilia Rodriguez

Idanha
Daelynn Aerni

Independence
Lynzey Arp
Blanca Avila
Annabella Bakarich
Ashley Baker
Evie Branske
Stacie Carter
Regina Castro
Gwyneth Couey
Abby Davis
Anabelen Garcia Estrada
Stephanie Herrera
Angel Larios
Jesus Larios
Norma Manzo Jauregui
Vanya Martinez
Julissa Mateo
Angela Mendoza
Kassidy Noon
Chris Ortega Robles
Alejandro Ortiz Villanueva
Grace Petersen
Gracee Potter
Fabian Prado
Alexis Ramos
Elle Robischon
Gisselle Rodriguez
Lizbeth Rosales Paredes
Perla San Miguel Morales
Nic Smith
Sofie Stonebrink
John Thoma
Joshua Wall
Miryam Waterman Cervantes

Irrigon
Jimena Villarreal

Jacksonville
Nicholas Karrick

Jefferson
Daniel Aguilar
Roselind Alejandre Morales
Noel Alvarez
Alyssa Kreder
Madi LaCrosse
Elizabeth McCall
Mariel Nunez Medina
Stephanie Schwarz
Benjamin Shown

John Day
Kaylee Wright

Joseph
Sophia Espinoza

Junction City
Kaley Siewert
Natalie Willoughby

Keizer
Joe Ramiro Alvarado
Andrew Baxter
Cadance Bunch
Fernando Calvillo
Christian Conway
Tyler Copeland
Eric Davids
Michael Deladurantaye
Cj Denison
Julie Dieker
Gage DuBois
Kaitlyn Duncanson
Beyonce Eslava
Tori Fryman
Tristan Goucher
Evgeny Gubin
Alivia Hall
Meredith Hegewald
Shrishti Jadhav
Caitlyn Kiefiuk Yates
Hannah Kuper
Alfred Licona Molina
Kaleb Lindon
Layne Ling
Kayla Miller
Kira Nelson
Reda Nguon
Alissa Olson
Tyler Payne
Yesenia Romero
Kate Ronning
Olena Rumbaugh
Megan Rygh
Noah Schnell
Jasmine Scott
Alexey Sharabarin
Joseph Staples
Ellyana Suek
Jordan Vance
Alejandro Villarreal
Sophia Waldon

King City
Alyssa Worthey

Klamath Falls
Nichole Cantrell
Macy Clemens
Sarah Ferns
Dominic Hankins
Stephen Hantzmon
Kristel Lane
Jadyn Luckman
Max Robinson
Hayden Smith

La Grande
Megan Pinkerton

La Pine
Olivia Flack

Lafayette
Alexis Pacheco
Morgan Poulos

Lake Owego
Lorna Herrera

Lakeview
Gregory Havely

Lebanon
Zoya Altuhova
Leticia Barbosa
Jesse Bass
Caitlyn Bilodeau
Sawyer Brubaker
Joel Carlson
Alessandra Cervantes Ramirez
Maya Gallegos-Wright
Sadie Latimer
Laura Lovell
Laurel McGuigan
Stephanie McKenzie
Madison Romeo
Emma Rose
Sorin Santos

Lincoln City
Taj Brandes
Kaylon Cobb
Brenda Ortiz Cruz
Hailey Weaver
Ean Wood

Lowell
Katie Chapman

Lyons
Kira Pease

Madras
Matthew Frazer
Ian Phillips
Saoirse Phillips
Cassandra Wells
Zephen Wilkinson

Manning
Allison Meeuwsen

McMinnville
Kendra Acker
Arian Aguilar
Pal Aranda Tule
Athena Bourne
Shelby Butler
Alejandra Ceja Montes
Kynz Cross
Jadielynn Elkins
Mariana Flores Lomeli
Madeline Fluke
Diego Gil
Abri Huerta
Jazmine Jones
Matt Kirsch
Jennifer Lopez-Zavala
Dalia Magana
Evelyn Mendoza Vargas
Maria Mendoza-Ceja
Noah Miller
Sara Minero
Juan Ornelas
Marie Palacios
Lauren Pannell
Vanessa Quintero
Anna Reddick
Ren Rodgers
Wyatt Schultz
Kaydi Stevenson
Maria Tzintzun
Emma Vanderveen

Medford
Aiden Cook
Dylan Espinosa
Chloe Hedgepeth
Charlotte Hreha
Elwood Hosking
Mallory Meilicke
Jaxon Moser
Kyla Potratz
Chelby Smalley
Jesus Villa

Mill City
Lili Lyness Morales

Milwaukie
Cami Ansley
Brandon Bean
Alyssa Danielly
Halia Richter
Emily Scheible
Danny Summers-Collver

Monmouth
Esmeralda Amescua
Isaac Bordadora
Jackson Bouchard
Paru Dahal
Emma Diehm
Katie Dufner
Brayden Farmer
Kaylee Hatch
Emily Heisinger
Berean Jones
Ellister Katz
Adam Logan
Melissa McDonald
Emilie Means
Franco Melgar Martich
Jane Montgomery
Skyler Neyenhuis
Marcie Pacheco
Joshua Peters
Brianna Plumb
Easton Pomrankey
Kaitlyn Puffpaff
Zoe Robb
Brynn Rodrigues
Jackson Schoenbachler
Justina Shepard
Lilly Sims
Victoria Statsenko
Riley Stearns
Martin Trujillo
Crystal Tungate
Carrie Visuano
Mary Way
Kaitlyn Woodard

Monroe
Trenton Bateman

Mt. Hood
Isela Barbosa-lachino
Molly Routson

Mt. Angel
Owen Bischoff

Mulino
Alexander Rogers

Myrtle Creek
Brooke Abel
Aubrey Rainville

Neotsu
Jayden King

Newberg
Peyton Carmon
Rilee Carstensen
Angelina Chhay
Kristal Gaona
Morgin Hubbard
Rebecca Kessler
Anya Kohl
Madeline Lambing
Elizabeth Saager
Scarlett Steenson

Newport
N Davis
Madison Hargett
James Lackey
Jamie Martinson
Jade Weber

North Bend
Brynne Hathorn
Chelsea Hendrickson

North Plains
Ethan Bothwell
Aidan Hazzard
Courtney Severns

Noti
Miriam Garland

Oak Grove
Lucas Montpart

Oakland
Veronica Sigl
Wyatt Smith
Fontelle Witten

Odell
Ayden Phelps

Ontario
Maria Cerezo-Perez
Maria Cuevas

Oregon City
Cameron Collier
Ethan DeVries
Jessie Eschweiler
Chloe Galambos
Michael Gibson
Derek Heintz
Hanne Hopkins
Maddie Hornback
Isabelle Lewis
Lauren Mallen
Kira Riggen
Bennett Roque
KatieRose Sarmiento
Shane Tacla
Zach Zumwalt
Evan Zwijsen

Otis
Ashley Brosch
Bridgett Marsh

Pacific City
Lionel Brown

Paisley
Cody Dickenson

Pendleton
Daniel Adams
DeLaney Duchek
Nicole Lee
Joshua Mendoza
Baylie Panduro-Santana
Elijah Tabellija

Philomath
Chloie Hamsher
Jayna Hoffman
Ellie Morales-Marquez
Alyson Todd

Phoenix
Daila Marroquin Salazar

Pleasant Hill
Samuel Hogervorst

Portland
Jackson Albrecht
Miranda Aubry
Kate Badon
Jessa Brame
Gillian Coplin
Maddie Coudriet
Bryce Coverdale
Kilyn Dawkins
Kaylee DuPont
Briar Durias
Ellie Erdahl
Catherine Eschman
Joselin Factor Najera
Laura Ferry
Peter Gillooly
Arianna Gsell
Desmond Jenkins
Edson Jimenez-Sutton
Cody Little-Reece
Caprial Loescher
Olivia May
Briana McNeel
Lili Minato
Jose Carlos Miramontes-Zaragoza
Jean Moss
Andrew Nguyen
John Oleson
Katerin Ortiz
Sophia Peterson
Jacob Pollock
Toby Regan-Vienop
Lize Rendon
Rowan Saadat
Ciclali Santos Alvarado
Chloe Smith
Sean Sullivan
Ashley Taylor
Morgan Thorud
Ashley Tramutolo
Valerie Vazquez
Olivia Wright

Prairie City
KaitLynne Ashley

Prineville
Henry Fonseca
Abbi Owens
Maxwell Stites Jayne

Rainier
Aidan Korff
David Placido
Kati Zuber

Redmond
Ariel Aylsworth
Gabriela Jimenez
Jose Rojas Olivares

Riddle
Lomasi Kerr
Tessa Powell

Rogue River
Morgan Tiffin

Roseburg
Giovanni Boyle
Tyson Bustamante
Taylor Davis
Myah Heuberger
Cybelle MacLean
Jessica Sanchez
Sydney Schafer
Sage Villa
Quinlan Wedge

Saint Helens
Nick Beyer
Rachel Freitag
Hannah Jensen
Savannah Manning
Lucia Martin
Graham McCallum
Annabelle Robitz
Margaret Wheeldon

Saint Paul
Taylor Faber

Salem
Sierra Ackerman
Ezra Alexander
Kobe Allen
Melissa Allen
Mahalia Alvarez
Oscar Alvarez
Yannis Alvarez Flores
Yeudiel Alvarez Flores
Orlando Alvarez Flores
Adam Ames
Daniel Andrawes
Martha Arredondo Pacheco
Osvaldo Ascencio-Mendoza
Karlie Asman
Samantha Bailey
India Baker
Aubrey Baker
Kiara Ballard
Ashley Banker
Adrien Beiswenger
Madison Beiswenger
Yesli Bejar Reyes
Andrew Bendt
Joel Bennett
Kyle Blair
Brooke Bolen
Marquis Bowles
Caleb Bunch
Erin Burke
Annika Campbell
Jennifer Canady
Ariel Cannon
Johnny Carrillo
Adler Ceboll
Elie Chase
Chawni Childress-Cameron
Will Childress-Cameron
Tommy Chira
Lucas Clark
John Cochrane
Keysel Corea-San Emeterio
Nichele Coria
Aylin Covarrubias
Peter Crall
Elyse Crane
Eduardo Cristobal
Kimberly Cristobal Gutierrez
Madisen Daniels
Merik Danielson
Malia Darras
Rylan Davidson
Annaka Davidson
Karina Davila
Melissa De La Lima
Aleta Debolt
Kaylin Dehut
Maycol Diaz Olivarez
Lesli Diaz-Diaz
Robert Downard
Abbi Duhart
Jessica Duran
Jocelyn Duran Jacobo
Chloe Eberz
Bailey Epperson
Marcos Espinoza Gomez
Marinel Joy Falalimpa
Tatum Farrell
Levi Fast
Connor Fast
Logan Fay
Micah Flores
Ashley Flores Guzman
Sabrina Ford
Lucas Fromherz
Nathan Furgison
Gabriel Garcia
Raul Garcia Duran
Ian Garcia Hernandez
Manuel Garibay
Daisy Garibay Garibay
Ruben Garibay Mendez
Nancy Gatica Nolasco
Annie Gehm
Ingrid Georgedes
Paul Ghalili
Mallory Gisler
Katelyn Gleason
Luke Goldman
Erick Gonzalez Diaz
Sydney Goodpasture
Heather Green
Lars Greene
Wesley Gutierrez
Andrew Gwin
Sydney Hage
Angela Hage
Ethan Halgren
Kaylee Hall
Serena Hall
Amelia Hamilton
Kyle Hansen
Ryan Hanson
Eddy Hardin Amador Rivera
Kaitlyn Harris
Alicia Hernandez-Godoy
Paola Herrera Garcia
Miriam Herrera Hernandez
Alex Hitchen
Michael Holley
Abigail Huber
Stacy Jackson
Evan Jackson
Nakya Jay
Carmen Jimenez Penuelas
Eli Johnson
Vi Johnson
Daley Jones
Brett Jones
Silas Kargel
Frank Kern
James Kivett
Trinity Kress
Litzy Ku Beiza
Andres Labate
Victoria Lance-Gonzalez
Liv Lardy
Alexis Large-Cooley
Alecia Lemeza
Fallon Litscher
Linda Llanos Garcia
Juliette Lloyd
Sienna Longan
Keith Lovejoy
Regan Luoma
Mayra Maciel
Yaneli Manzanarez Calleja
Sadie Martin
Kiara Martinelli
Amalia Martinez
Isaac Mayhugh
Megan McKinney
Alexandra Mckinzie
Christopher Means
Ashley Mendez
Eli Mignano
Wendy Montes
America Moreno-Garcia
Nancy Mota Gonzalez
Kayli Nagel
Mustafa Namik
Kaydence Nguyen
Hailey Notman
Natalie Nyquest
Christian Ochoa-Fernandez
Nate Okada
Jason Onggara
Audrey Parks
Alyssa Parr
Alan Parra Navarro
Lizzy Peacock
Jaden Perez
Joaquin Pesqueira
Miranda Pfeil
Lua Pierce
Natasha Polly
Sierra Porter
Brian Preston
Katie Putnam
Kayla Pylis
Annabella Ramey
Abenamar Ramirez
Ambar Camila Ramirez Melendez
Guadalupe Ramos Ramirez
Jenean Randall
Emma Range
Christian Raymon
Cade Reeves
Norman Rehm
Jailene Reyes
Micaiah Rishel
Olivia Robbins
Jessica Roberts
Kenya Rodriguez
Cloey Rodriguez
Mackenzie Rolf
Stephan Rozov
Ken Ruddiman
Alia Russell
Maria Salazar
Sonali Salgado
Yuriko Sanchez Rodriguez
Casandra Sanchez Soriano
Teagan Sanders
Makaila Sands
Palwinder Sangha
Carley Schlag
Claire Schreiner
Alena Schultz
Alexandria Sims
Katie Snyder
Delaina Soboloski
Tanner Sorensen
Kate Sornson
Anai Soto
Skylar Stangeland
Avery Stanley
Isaac Stearns
Zahvia Stokes
Jaime Tenorio
Augustine Terrones
Hailey Thompson
Hannah Thompson
Simon Thompson
Ayleen Torres Ibarra
Devin Torrez
Stevie Trapero
Jeniffer Valle
Lyle Van Soolen
Kay Vasquez
Atalin Venegas
Gianni Villanueva
Valeriia Voiteshonok
Daniel Wallior
Justin Wells
Jasmine Wetter
Marina Williams
Seth Williamson
Hunter Winger
Victoria Winkler
James Wollenweber
Bella Wunderlich
Demetrius Yehnert
Ethan Yoshinaga
Anna Young
Peyton Young
Julian Zeigler

Sandy
Haylee Lutz
Morgan Maul
McKenna Rattray
Kelsey Wallace

Scappoose
Stephen Hanson
Abby Schrunk

Scio
Larenda Bennett
Marisa Bradley
Gillian Heskew
Luke Jones
David Silbernagel

Scotts Mills
Sophie Borgstahl

Seaside
Logan Gandy
Liv Mayhugh
Kyle Miller
Chase Swearingen
Desirae Williams

Shedd
Hannah Robb

Sheridan
Timothy Flynn
Michael Laudahl
Kaysha Nice
Shelbie Reddick
David Wyss

Sherwood
Brittany Arendt
Ella Bintoro
Hailey Blue
Jandika Borden
Casey Downing
Maddux Gillett
Logan Panter
Caitlin Quirk
Ella Semingson
Ethan Staubach
Abigail Swartz
Vanessa Van Winkle
Makayla Wright

Siletz
Nicole Dickason

Silverton
Luz Aldrete
Adam Barnett
Lillian Eberle
Sophia Harrison
Anne Hurley
Allyson Leboeuf
Drew Montgomery
Kerry Platt
Annika Rogers
Ammon Saboe
Ashlea Smallwood

South Beach
Michelle Cottrell

Springfield
Brayden Allen
Kyle Babcock
Hannah Barr
Cassidy Burns
Tamerra Cervantes Carlos
Tessa Douangaphaivong
Paige Gault
Reece Germen
Wyatt King
Seth Miller
Aaron Neiwert
Emma Peterson
Mandy Reid
Rhylie Sevits
Aubrie Stone
Christian Velasco
Lilly Vogt
Ally Warner

Stayton
Nolan Cramer
Kaelyn Hill
Robin Jackson
Kaley Larsen
Charles Moody
Richard Music
Aidan Quigley

Sublimity
Ray Lowe
McKinzie McBride
Elias Stuckart
Peyton Stuckart

Sutherlin
Candace Hastings
Ashley Radmer
Jessica Salgado
Kirstyn Thomas
Libby Whited

Sweet Home
Bailee Hartsook
Natalia Hartman
Sky Hilton
Dorian Kirrigan
Aiden Tyler

Swisshome
Jordan Simington

Talent
Jordan Kemper

Tangent
Faith DeVyldere
Sarah DeVyldere

Terrebonne
Chase Anspach

The Dalles
Mirella Barrera-Betancourt
Leslie Blakely
Gheraldy Bobadilla-Cruz
Justin Conklin

Tidewater
Dani Gainer

Tigard
Mauro Alvarez
Logan Barr
Isis Bober
Blake Brown
Adrianna Cardenas
Abbigale Elliott
Caroline Escher
Abigail Fisher
Forest Harrington
Suzy Kelchner Lee
Molly Livingston
Claire McCann
Lindsey Notos
Jocelyn Paulus
Jesus Rodriguez Sandoval
Eden Rygh

Tillamook
Tania Esquivel
Isabel Hurliman
Logan McKibbin
Lillian Prince

Toledo
Hannah Smith

Troutdale
Hannah Burk
Anthony Dickson
Kaitlyn Kruse
Olivia Macdonald
Caiden Madzelan
Jay Tindall
Daisy Vasquez

Tualatin
Brayleen Blanchard
Wilmer Diaz
Lauren Divine
Karen Gonzalez De Niz
Lumen Haider
Russell Meyer
Mariam Rivera Serrano
Taylor Rudisill
Kayla Smith
Atlas Sprague
Bianca Stidd
Bella Valdes

Turner
Latif Al-Abdulrazzaq
Molly Martinka
Sarah Phillips

Tygh Valley
Garrett Olson

Umatilla
Jose Alaniz-Benitez

Vale
Erika Mcbride

Vernonia
Jessica Butcher

Waldport
Oceanna Lambert
Latysha Ransom

Wamic
Abby Birman

Warren
Manda Oliver
Sophi Hering

Warrenton
Saysha Breitmeyer
Emily Carpenter
Tyler Lane
Isabella Morrill
Dylan Rush
Mark Warren

Welches
Malia Vican

West Linn
Alex Bernasconi
Lilian DeMarco
Kaiden Randall
Sarah Sedgewick
Hudson Staats
Chase Johnson
Koffi Kouame
Anton Mendoza
Aidyn Reed
Kyla Wheeler

Willamina
Andrea Capellino
Kailey Yoder

Wilsonville
Kayla Bolnick
Alyssa Imamura

Winston
Cora Wanamaker
Rachel Johnson

Woodburn
Miriam Barragan
Esther Bautista
Diana Bonifacio Herrera
Nicole Caporal
Monica Cuatra
Daycy Elena Aguilar
Karen Elena Aguilar
Isaak Flores
Erasmo Giron Cortes
Dennis Giron Morales
Jesus Guerrero
Shabryna Herrera
Caleb Lenhardt
Karina Leon
Yesenia Lopez
Adan Ortiz Alvarez
Gabriel Pelayo
Alliyah Ramirez
Nataly Rodriguez
Litzy Vasquez Gutierrez

Yachats
D.J. Pruneda

Yamhill
Kade Klienstuber

Students from states other than Oregon

Alaska
Kelly Bowen
Melly Burger
Clair Byrer
Gage Carter
Hailey Colgin
Lucas Devon
Angelina Doggett
Cedric Gatter
Clay Johnson
Aidan King
Henry Michener
Kellianna Mikawa
William Murphree
Stephanie Stoltenberg
Daniela Witt

Arkansas
Kyla Aitaro

Arizona
Finley Buman
Olivia Duncan
Caitlin Heldt
Nathan Hurtado
Mykennah Irvin
Edgar Landeros
Morgan Pemberton
Aubree Reese
Keeton Sanchez
Emma Shumway
Juan Suarez Amador
Maliyah Thompson

California
Violet Babbitt
Zach Balducci
Jennie Batchelder
Bryce Bond
Molly Brayton
Mac Brown
Aubrey Coleman
Kris Cook
Skylar Crossland
Nemo Dieterich
Makaylah Fiedler
Jason Gallant
Elijasah Green
Aidan Hare
Kyle Hiltbrand
Gabriel Hoselton
Katelin Jensen
Matthew Jernigan
Justin Johnson
Thomas Johnson
Taya Johnson
Raeanne Jones
Chris Jones
Grace Kearney
Elijah King
Jermaine Land
Lindie Larson
Giavanna Ledesma
Kaylee Leong
Bella Maclellan
Madison Malveaux
Ruth Matavao
Josh Mckey
Isaias Mireles
Tyler Mohler
Abby Money
Qiant Myers
Ryan Naugle
Sarah Nelson
Mayumi Nomura
Laney O’Neil
Natalie Perez
Claire Phillips
Ethan Price
Tyler Renfro
Crystal Robertson
Viviana Romero
Lauren Rose
Carli Rosenquist
Emily Rosson
Samantha Sanders
April Sawyer
Britain Schneider
Kairo Shahin
Sierra Sobota
Connor Spellman
Marcus Vazquez
Emily Wardlow
Dio Watson
Haley Wittick

Colorado
Anthony Cortese
Chloe Eberl
Erica Guddat
Ella Haupt
Chase Nelson
Sara Rotar
Oliver Skains
Toby Winkler

Georgia
Lacey Lewis

Hawaii
Kailee Badua
Kainalu Cabebe
Aulani Casco-De Leon
Raileigh DeMotta
Seth Duggan
Jenna Dumas
Tehya Engoring
Korri-Lyn Fernandez
Kai Fukunaga
Dahlia Harvey
Kili Helm
Emma Higashi
Taryn Ho
LJ Imo
Kaylee Ito-Decierdo
Bailey Keator
Kayla Kepa
Destiny-celyse Lopez
Kirstee Luis
Ava Makanui
Nicklas Matsumoto
Hoala Meyer
Kala’i Pagente
Emeli Rubel
Titongi Taomia
Peyton Todd
Lacey Wakano
Anika Wiley
Kayla Yamashita
Samantha Yim

Idaho
Hope-Marie Bodak
Solomon Hanselman
Brooklyn Schneidt
Carolyn Turpen
Austin Wilkes

Illinois
Kayleigh Mcreynolds

Kansas
Tate Miner

Massachusetts
Maeve Taylor

Minnesota
Josie Lavato
Lexus Walk

Missouri
Ryan Hankins

Northern Mariana Islands
Coloma Castro
Marione Corpus
Daphne Cruzana
Chisa Kobayashi
Micah Larioza
Rosabelle Surla
Justin Weaver

Montana
Dylan Chalmers
Molly Gale
Grace Gedlaman
Jessica Morgan
Sophia Pierce
Randy Stultz
Jenna Wagner

North Dakota
Alison Seidel

Nevada
Andrew Carrillo
Marlon Harrison II
Jesus Macias
Antonio Macias
Kailiana Ramos
Megan Roberson
Trey Wilmot
Mackenzie Wilson
Alexis Wright

Palau
Fireyaro Terry

Texas
Hailey Austin
Bobby Barnaby Bryce
Madelyn Garcia
Lorena Huerta

Utah
Jodi Noyes

Washington
Josie Ackerman
Lillian Axelson
Abigail Baker
Tirzah Bessey
Sophia Blair
Jaclyn Borseth
Josie Cole
Kenzie Collison
Jordyn Conrad
Baxter Cox
Michelle Cramer
Savannah Crithfield
Mary Daly
Sam Darby
Camille Darland
Anthony Delgado
Julia Delgado
Alexander David Driesner
Mary Dycus
Donovan Faucher
Addie Floyd
Devin Fry
Charles Gillmore
Aidan Graham
Jake Hampson
Alexandra Harman
Bailey Harmon
Tayler Hart
Makenna Helseth
Jonathan Hofford
Ashley Hulse
Ally Jankelson
Jesus Jeronimo Gotoo
Jessica Johnson
Tyran Johnson
Olivia Johnsrud
Elizabeth Lacey
Chester March
Sydney Martin
Payton Martinson
Jonathan McAtee
Katelyn McGough
JD McShane
Dylan Meader
Amelia Merritt
Haley Moore
Kaylee Moore
Owen Murdock
Paige Murphy
Andre Northrup
Preston Noyes
Emily Olsen
Elizabeth Parker
Kyle Parkman
Alex Peck
Kiana Pel
Katelyn Peterson
Reese Prater
Ali Purdue
Katrina Renault
Alexis Sadler
Emma Smith
Chelsea Smith
Alysia Snyder
Samantha Stinson
Mimi Swetish
Kady Taylor
Savannah Taylor
Karly Tiedeman
Daron Ulrich
Jakeb Vallance
Dylan Van Horn
Darien Walton
Carly Wampach
Josiah Wattnem
Nicholas Weber
Lauryn Wilson
Macee Woods
Claire Worthy

Wyoming
Anneke Engel
Ariah Waller

International Students

Japan
Ririko Miyamoto
Chisato Sako

Nepal
Samrid Aryal
Mijash Ghimire

Saudi Arabia
Faisal Dhawahi D Almutairi

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About Western Oregon UniversityWestern 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.

Image of Emily Swart ’20

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to highlight the achievements of alumni, Emily Swart ‘20. She majored in interdisciplinary studies, leading her to embark on a fulfilling career as the donor relations manager at Marion Polk Food Share. Through her dedication and passion, Swart has made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals facing food insecurity.

At Marion Polk Food Share, Swart’s role involves securing funds to distribute one million pounds of food monthly. This incredible feat is made possible through the hard work of volunteers who sort donations from retailers, food drives, and local farmers. The warehouse supports food pantries and collaborates with local programs such as Church in the Park, Boys & Girls Club, and Western’s food pantry.

Swart’s journey to success was not a linear path. She found guidance and support at Western after high school where she majored in interdisciplinary studies which allowed her to explore her interests and nurture her curiosity. Swart credits the university for providing the direction she needed to fine-tune her skills, which paved the way for her career.

“If you come to Western with an open mind and you lean on your professors and the staff, they’re going to help you dig even deeper into what you’re interested in and passionate about. What makes Western special is they take students like me and launch them into jobs like this.” shared Swart. 

Swart’s success story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the invaluable support provided by Western. Her dedication to helping others and making a difference in her community is truly inspiring. Western takes pride in its alumni and their contributions to society.

Learn more about alumni Emily Swart’s success story

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About 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. As of 2023, the WOU Foundation has approximately $26 million in assets and a permanent endowment of $22 million.

Pictured left to right: Jaxon Hutchinson, Meriby Salgado Ydrac, and Arlette Tapia

Written by Maureen Brakke, Director of Marketing and Communications

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to showcase the achievements of three outstanding students who participated in recent study abroad and internship programs. Students Jaxon Hutchinson, Meriby Salgado Ydrac, and Arlette Tapia Lopez,  demonstrated their dedication to academic excellence and global engagement. 

Hutchinson, a linguistics enthusiast, studied in Germany during the 2022-23 academic year where he presented his linguistics research at a prestigious conference in Hamburg. Building on his success, Hutchinson is now preparing to pursue a master’s degree in linguistics in Germany.

Ydrac participated in the National Student Exchange program in Puerto Rico during the fall of 2022. This experience provided her with a unique perspective on Puerto Rican culture and allowed her to develop a deeper understanding of global diversity. Inspired by her time abroad, she now works in the study abroad office as a study abroad advisor, where she continues to support and guide fellow students in their pursuit of international experiences.

Lopez made a significant impact as a Movement Building Youth Fellow at Capaces in Woodburn this past summer. She contributed to the organization’s mission of empowering the Latine community through her dedication and hard work. She is applying to law school, where she hopes to advocate for underrepresented communities and promote social justice. 

Western is committed to providing students with transformative educational experiences that prepare them for success in an interconnected world. Their achievements exemplify the university’s dedication to fostering global citizenship and academic excellence. 

Learn more about study abroad and internship opportunities.

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About Western Oregon UniversityWestern 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.

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Professor of Theatre and Dance, Leslie Watanabe, has received several prestigious awards for his film Bonsai released this year. It was showcased at various film festivals this year.

Bonsai is a captivating film that intertwines the technical creation of a beautiful bonsai tree with the life story of the filmmaker’s mother. The film’s unique concept and execution have resonated with audiences and critics, leading to its success.

“My mother shared with me that my father made her life a Bonsai. This phrase haunted me for years. When I finally made Bonsai, it was done from my mother’s viewpoint. I gathered all her letters and began the heart-rending process of writing the script,” shared Watanabe. “Now that it’s done and has received recognition throughout the world, I can finally say to her, ‘Rest in peace, Mom the world knows your story.’”

In 2023, Bonsai received numerous awards and recognition:

1.  Best Experimental Film, Best Art House Short Film, Best Cinematography, and Dance Film – 8 Halfilm Awards, Rome 

2.  Best Experimental Film – Frida Film Festival, Paris 

3.  Best Experimental Film – Florence Film Awards, Florence 

4.  Best Experimental Film – International Gold Awards

5.  Gold Award: Best Screenplay – Paris Film Awards 

6.  Best Screenplay – New York Movie Awards

7.  Best Editing – Florence Film Awards, Florence

Looking ahead to 2024, Bonsai has been nominated for awards and will be featured at several  festivals:

1.  Best Screen Play – Winter Leopard International Film Festival, Stockholm 

2.  Best Dance Video – Art Giraffe International Film Festival, Nice 

3.  Best Short Film – Red Fox International Film Festival 

4.  Best Short Film and Best Sound Design – Portuguese Lemur International Film Festival, Lisbon 

5.  Best Original Screenplay –  Liber Films International Film Festival, Greece 

Watanabe’s Bonsai is a testament to the power of storytelling and the art of filmmaking. Its success in the form of awards and recognition speaks volumes to the film’s quality and the talent behind its creation.

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About Western Oregon UniversityWestern 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.

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University, in partnership with  Unitus Credit Union, hosted a reception last month to celebrate eight Unitus Bilingual Teachers Scholars scholarship recipients. This scholarship aims to foster diversity and inclusivity within the teaching profession.

The following Western students were recipients of the Bilingual Teachers scholarship: Miriam Herrera Hernandez, Maria Guadalupe Salazar, Keysel Corea-San Emeterio, Evelyn Estrada, Diana Valdovinos Cabrera, Alessandra Cervantes Ramirez, Areli Santos Gomez, and Vanessa Quintero.

“Unitus is proud to partner with Western on the Bilingual Teacher Scholars Program for this critical community need,” said Steve Stapp, Unitus president/CEO. “It’s our honor to help prepare the next wave of teachers in Oregon through scholarship support so new students will have bilingual teachers who understand their needs, connect with them on a cultural level, and can meet them where they’re at.”

The gathering included staff from Western Oregon University and alumnus Gustavo Balderas, Ph.D. ‘90, superintendent of Beaverton School District, who delivered the keynote address. Balderas, known for his dedication to education and his visionary leadership, provided inspiration and encouragement to the scholarship recipients. 

The recipients shared their stories and their inspiration for pursuing a career in education.  “I want to be a teacher who will support students like me. I do not want any child to feel as if they are alone and I want my students to know that I can relate to them,” shared Vanessa Quintero, scholarship recipient and a junior at Western. She adds that not only does she want to support students but also their families and believes that creating strong connections will help everyone learn and grow together.

Another scholarship recipient Maria Guadalupe Salazar shares that this scholarship will allow her to complete her education so she can help children feel a sense of belonging. “I don’t want kids to feel out of place or fall behind because they don’t speak English. I want to be that change and be there for the students who need me.” 

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About Western Oregon UniversityWestern 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.

Pictured from left: Ricardo Pelegrin Taboada, Ph.D., Mary Pettenger, Ph.D.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to announce a new major in Ethnic Studies, starting fall 2024-25. This major aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to navigate and address contemporary equity and justice.

The Ethnic Studies program incorporates courses from 20 different disciplines, offering students a well-rounded education. It encompasses five concentrations: Chicano/Latino and Latin American studies, African American and African studies, global ethnicities studies, Indigenous studies, and intersectionality studies. By exploring these concentrations, students will gain a deeper understanding of the experiences and contributions of these ethnic groups. 

Two new courses will be offered in Ethnic Studies. Students can enroll in Introduction to Ethnic Studies 201 for the upcoming winter term and Introduction to Cultural Studies 202 for the upcoming spring term. These courses will provide comprehensive insights into diverse cultural landscapes and social dynamics that shape our world. 

“We are thrilled to introduce the new Ethnic Studies major at Western,” said Ricardo Pelegrin Taboada, Ph.D., professor of History. “This program will empower students to become agents of social change and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society.” 

This program is also a gateway to a wide range of professions. Students interested in law, criminal justice, social activism, public health, public education, and other social services will find this major particularly relevant. The program’s focus on critical thinking, culture, history, and current societal issues will prepare students to be culturally competent practitioners ready to serve diverse populations. 

For students who wish to supplement their studies in another field, Western currently offers a minor in Ethnic Studies. This minor adds breadth to their education and demonstrates cultural competency, a highly sought-after skill by employers in today’s diverse workforce. 

For more information about the Ethnic Studies minor at Western.

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About Western Oregon UniversityWestern 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.