Pictured: Starting from left back row: Ken Pastega, LouAnn Vickers, President Peters, Provost Jose Coll. Starting from left front row: Patricia Goldsworthy-Bishop Ph.D., Brooke Dolenc Nott Ph.D., Earlene Camarillo Ph.D.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to announce the 2024 Mario & Alma Pastega Awards recipients. This is the highest recognition for faculty and staff excellence. A reception was held on May 22, recognizing their accomplishments. 

“This was a really special event and really spoke to the power of community at our university,” shared President Peters. “These awards would not be possible without the support of the Pastega Family. It was amazing that Ken Pastega, Mario and Alma’s son joined us for the celebration.”

Patricia Goldsworthy-Bishop, Ph.D., Professor of History, is the 2024 recipient of the Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Scholarship. This award recognizes significant and enduring scholarly or creative achievement. Earlene Camarillo, Ph.D. Professor of Politics, Policy, and Administration is the 2024 recipient of the Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Service. This award honors a full-time faculty member who demonstrates exceptional service to the university. 

Brooke Nott, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology is the 2024 recipient of the Mario and Alma Pastega Award for Excellence in Teaching. This award honors a full-time faculty member who demonstrates excellence in teaching and relationships with students, both in and out of the classroom.

LouAnn Vickers, senior executive assistant to the President, is the 2024 recipient of the Mario and Alma Pastega Staff Excellence Award. This award honors a classified or administrative staff member who demonstrates exceptional service to the university. 

Learn more about the Marion & Alma Pastega Awards and each award recipient   

###

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.

Pictured: Western’s Mariachi Band performing

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University invited over 150 high school students to join the cultural event, Conexiones. The event’s keynote speaker was Oregon State Representative Nathan Sosa. 

Conexiones offered engaging sessions for students to connect with Western’s community and learn more about their culture. Students participated in campus tours, interactive activities, and more. Presentations were also given by  Western faculty, students, and community partners. 

The Multicultural Student Union also hosted their 32nd annual Nuestra Fiesta Latina, celebrating the Hispanic and Latino/a/e identities. Students attended the event which included vendors, activities, and food. 

###

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. The Western Oregon University Program for Undergraduate Research Experiences (PURE) is proud to announce that its annual Academic Excellence Showcase will occur in person on Thursday, May 30. The showcase allows Western undergraduate students to share their research with university faculty, staff, students, and the general public. 

Students from all disciplines are eligible to present at the event and work with a faculty mentor who helps them prepare their research for public presentation. Much of the research is done under the direct supervision of Western faculty members and represents the very best of collaborative research across a diverse array of disciplines. “We are very excited to show off the best thinking and thinkers that Western Oregon University has to offer,” says Maren Anderson, director of PURE.

The Academic Excellence Showcase takes place all day across the campus of Western Oregon University. The event features student panels, poster presentations, fine arts performances, a presentation of awards, and plenary speakers. It is free for all members of the university community and the general public. Learn more or contact pure@wou.edu for more information.

###

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 credit: Monmouth Has Pride

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University, for the second consecutive year, is a partner sponsor for Monmouth Has Pride, hosted by the City of Monmouth. The sponsorship is part of a LGBTQ2SIA+ Student Success Grant, awarded to Western in partnership with Central School District. 

Monmouth Has Pride is a fun, family-friendly event celebrating the LGBTQ2SIA+ community and includes a parade, live music, activities, vendors, and free food (while supplies last). 

“We chose to include support for the Monmouth Has Pride event into our grant, as it supports our strategy to build safer affirming spaces. This event has seen incredible growth since its inception, and provides an amazing opportunity for community engagement in support and celebration of the LGBTQ2SIA+ community,” shared Dominique Vargas, executive director of diversity, equity, and inclusion. “Any opportunity we can have for the university, the school district, and the greater community to come together to create a more inclusive environment, we want to take it.”

Monmouth Has Pride is free and open to the public. This event takes place on Saturday, June 1, 2024, from 10 am to 2 pm at Main Street Park in Monmouth, Ore.

Learn more about Monmouth Has Pride 

###

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: Natural Science Club students at Death Valley National Park

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Natural Science Club recently visited Death Valley National Park with Bryan Dutton, Ph.D., and Michael LeMaster, Ph.D., both biology professors who hosted the experience.

Students hiked and explored areas such as Badwater Basin, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Ubehebe Crater, and Dantes View and learned about various plant life and native reptiles. 

“This experience helped me feel more welcome at Western because I got to go with a bunch of people in the same biology class as me,” shared Brittany Robles, a current biology student. 

Western students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities and clubs to experience unique excursions and learn more about their areas of interest. These opportunities allow students to learn outside the classroom and build peer relationships.

Watch a short video of the Natural Science Club’s trip to Death Valley National Park 

###

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. – Western Oregon University was awarded funds by the Oregon State Legislature to enhance the state’s capacity to address behavioral and mental health workforce needs along with Eastern Oregon University, Oregon Institute of Technology, Portland State University, and Southern Oregon University.

With a rising number of individuals seeking support for various mental health concerns in the state, the existing healthcare infrastructure struggles to meet the growing demand. This shortage leaves many communities underserved and exacerbates the strain on existing resources, resulting in prolonged wait times for crucial mental health services. Addressing this crisis requires concerted efforts to attract, train, and retain mental health professionals while also expanding access to mental healthcare services in underserved areas. 

To address this growing issue, the regional institutions received a combined total of $4 million from the Oregon State Legislature during the most recent legislative session to build additional pathways for individuals to become mental and behavioral health professionals. Western Oregon University was awarded $666,000 of the $4 million to address Oregon’s behavioral and mental health workforce needs by:

• Awarding stipends and/or fellowships to students seeking mental health degrees and working with community organizations.
• Providing scholarships to reduce or eliminate debt for students pursuing mental health degrees.
• Partnering with community organizations on pathways for behavioral and mental health student interns to work with rural, veteran, or houseless individuals, students, or persons from underserved communities. 
• Developing and delivering micro-credentials, alcohol, and drug counseling certificates, and/or additional innovative academic pathways that materially increase the number of working professionals with mental health training.
• Any other method determined by these institutions to be necessary to enhance the state’s capacity to educate behavioral and mental health practitioners in the manner described above. 

“Oregon is facing a behavioral health crisis that requires investment by the state to develop a robust workforce,” said Provost Jose Coll. “This initial funding initiative is a start to what we hope will be a commitment by Oregon to support those institutions that are training the counselors of the future. We look forward to the next steps which will increase enrollment and support students seeking a behavioral health degree.” 

###

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

Pictured: Earth and Environmental Science students in action on a spring volcanology field trip with Dr. Templeton.

MONMOUTH, Ore. The Western Oregon University Earth and Environmental Science program recently secured a three-year GEOPAths (Pathways into the Geosciences – Earth, Ocean, Polar, and Atmospheric Sciences) grant from the National Science Foundation Division of Research, Innovation, Synergies and Education (RISE) for approximately $420,000. 

This funding aims to bolster undergraduate engagement in the field through a multifaceted approach encompassing course-based training, service learning, and skill development. Spearheaded by Co-Principal Investigators Geology Professors Steve Taylor and Jeff Templeton, the project centers on the vital theme of water in the environment.

At its core, the initiative seeks to establish a robust Geo-STEM learning ecosystem, forging partnerships with governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations, and regional employers. Together, they aim to foster earth science literacy, tackle local environmental challenges, and inspire diverse student populations to pursue careers in geosciences.

Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the project places a strong emphasis on engaging underrepresented groups such as minorities, females, low-income individuals, and first-generation college students. By providing tailored support, including scholarships, the project aims to cultivate learning cohorts, work-based experiences, and mentorship opportunities that empower students and enhance their sense of belonging in the field.

“The GEOPAths NSF award to the Earth and Environmental Science program will provide invaluable resources to support student success in the STEM disciplines at WOU,” said Steve Taylor, Ph.D., professor of geology and chair of the Division of National Sciences and Mathematics.  The majority of grant funds are dedicated to direct student support in the form of scholarships and facilitation of work-based experiences, leading to lifelong careers as geoscience professionals.  We are excited about this opportunity and are really looking forward to getting this project off the ground in the coming months.”  

Ultimately, the initiative not only seeks to diversify the geoscience workforce but address pressing societal issues, particularly in water management. Through innovative approaches to recruitment and retention, it aspires to contribute valuable insights to the broader field of geoscience education while equipping students with the skills and confidence to become future leaders in the profession.

###

About Western’s Earth and Environmental Science Program: The Earth and Environmental Science program at Western Oregon University provides a liberal arts education in geoscience with an emphasis on scientific methods, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary science education. A key objective of the program is to prepare undergraduates for careers as professional geoscientists and educators. The program also promotes the development of an informed citizenry for wise decision-making on issues related to natural resources, environmental quality, and sustainability in Oregon and beyond. Together we succeed.

Written by David Beasley, Ph. D.

MONMOUTH, Ore. Western Oregon University is pleased to announce the 38th Annual Wolves Athletics Auction presented by Oregon State Credit Union will be held on Saturday, June 1. 

The Wolves Athletic Auction is the premiere fundraiser for Wolves Athletics, helping to support the over 440 student-athletes across 14 men’s and women’s NCAA Division II teams and cheer. “The Wolves Athletic Auction is important because it is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Wolves Athletics,” says Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Randi Lydum. “It has become a tradition at the university and in the community, and it brings alumni and friends of Wolves Athletics together to support all of our student-athletes.”

Western senior Women’s Soccer standout Hannah Rispler will once again serve as the master of ceremonies for the evening, and alumna and former Volleyball and Track & Field standout Samantha Moore is the evening’s featured speaker. 

All proceeds from the evening go towards student-athlete scholarships, Wolves team equipment, and team programs. “The impact of the auction is immeasurable and makes a big difference in the lives of all WOU student-athletes,” says senior Women’s Soccer star Hannah Rispler. “The auction not only provides scholarships for student-athletes that make our education possible but proceeds also support other team needs that benefit all student-athletes.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to bid on dozens of high-quality items and experiences at the live and silent auctions. Additional elements of the event include a catered dinner with beer from Parallel 45 and wine from Eola Hills Winery, a curated wine wall, and a raffle.

The auction is presented by Oregon State Credit Union and is sponsored by Petals & Vines; Compass Visual; Eola Hills Winery; Parallel 45 Brewing; Rookies Sports Tap; Arena Sports Bar & Grill; Cornerstone Valley; Vines, Tours, and Cruises; Ferguson Wellman; Miller Nash; Walnut Family Dental, and Tim’s Automotive.

Tickets are still available for the event and can be purchased. Event doors open at 5:00 p.m. at the New PE Building on the campus of Western Oregon University. 

###

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 alum Justin Martin ‘96, a business owner and lobbyist. Martin received his bachelor’s in public policy and administration from Western, which helped him achieve career success.

While at Western, Martin took advantage of internships, leading him to pursue a career in government. These opportunities confirmed that majoring in public policy and administration was the right step for him. Whether it was state, local, or tribal government, he knew he had found his calling.

“I’m proud of the fact that I’ve been able to lobby for my tribe, The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, for the last 28 years,” shared Martin. “My grandfather is a big part of it. He was on the tribal council early in my career. I also own a vintage guitar store and even though that’s music-related and not government-related, I’ve still been able to use what I learned at Western to help me on the business side of it.” 

Martin is currently the owner of Perseverance Strategies, a small government relations firm, and the owner of Guitar Castle, a vintage guitar store located in Salem.

When Martin graduated from Western, he left prepared for his career because of the experience he received during his internships. Martin was a non-traditional student who attended college after being in the workforce and credits Western’s guidance for helping him focus on what he was passionate about. The flexible curriculum allowed him the opportunity to be successful in his current career path.

Learn more about Justin Martin’s success story

###

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

Pictured left to right: student panelist Moises Leal Zepeda, Brenda Rocio Martinez, America Joselyne Salazar Nava, Andy Rincon, and moderator Ricardo Lujan Valerio at the 2024 HSI Summit

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces its latest Hispanic student enrollment figures. As of fall 2023, 25.2 percent of Western’s full-time equivalent undergraduate students and 24.1 percent of all Western students (both graduate and undergraduate) identify as Latino/a/e. Western is the first four-year public Oregon institution to achieve these numbers, bringing it closer to becoming eligible to obtain an official Hispanic Serving Institution designation.

Achieving official designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution requires Western to maintain a minimum enrollment of 25 percent full-time equivalent undergraduate students for three consecutive academic years and maintain the same percentage at the end of the award year immediately preceding the application date to become an official HSI. There are additional criteria that higher education institutions must meet in order to become an HSI, some of which Western has met and some of which are ongoing. Attaining official HSI status will provide Western opportunities to apply for Title V federal grants to expand and enhance academic offerings, program quality, and student services.

“As we look towards becoming an official Hispanic-Serving Institution, we recognize the significance of our role in empowering Latiné students and fostering their academic success,” said President Jesse Peters. “Our commitment to serve all of our students extends beyond the classroom, as we strive to create an inclusive environment that values their unique perspectives, stories, and cultures. Together, we provide a personalized learning community where individuals experience a deep sense of belonging and empowerment.”

Over the last few years, Western’s Latiné student enrollment has been steadily increasing. President Peters shares his excitement about the growing Latiné student enrollment but also understands the continued work ahead. “Western is committed to not only sustaining current Latiné enrollment numbers but also enhancing student engagement, support, and enrollment. This will be achieved through increased participation in community events, additional bilingual campus liaisons, enhanced bilingual resources, expanding the Latiné alumni network, and restructuring key campus areas to facilitate smoother communication and reduce barriers. This is a journey we are all on together.”

Western is also a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, the only national association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions. Faculty and staff members from Western have participated in HACU fellowship programs that aim to foster the development of Hispanic leadership on a variety of levels. On April 26, Western hosted the third annual Hispanic Institution Summit with nearly 300 participants which included state and national partners, universities, and greater community members sharing ideas and best practices throughout the day in plenaries and workshops. Western also recently added the position of Assistant Director of Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives in its Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to support efforts to become a Hispanic-Serving Institution. After a search, Cristian Mendez Garcia was selected for this role and officially started on April 22. 

According to the U.S. Department of Education, as of fall 2021, there were 600 Hispanic Serving Institutions in 28 states, including the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, and 421 emerging Hispanic Serving Institutions as of the latest HACU and Excelencia data released this April.

Sources:

https://www.hacu.net/hacu/HSIs.asp

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.