MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Cannon Gallery of Art proudly presents the exceptional artwork of the Art & Design Department faculty. This biennial exhibition showcases the remarkable talent and creativity of faculty members, offering a diverse range of artistic expressions to the community.

The exhibition opened in November with a reception that was held at the Cannon Gallery located in the historic Campbell Hall. The event was filled with art, refreshments, and music by Mike Fite.

This year’s biennial exhibition includes the works of Mary Harden, Jodie Garrison, Daniel Tankersley, Rebecca McCannell, Jennifer Vaughn, Jen Bracy, Gregory Poulin, Pete Hoffecker Mejia, and Donna Beverly. Additionally, the exhibition proudly introduces the remarkable contributions of Eric Frey and Laura Killip from the Art & Design staff. 

“The last faculty biennial was in 2021, coming immediately off of the pandemic. This exhibit marks a noticeable shift and a coming back together as a department and as a community. The work in this show is bright, colorful, and conceptually engaging,” shared Paula Booth, MFA, Professor of Art and gallery director. “Artists are trying new things, pushing new concepts, and experimenting with materials in new ways – it feels fresh and exciting.”

The exhibition showcases a wide array of media, including painting, printmaking, video, installation, sculpture, collage, and mixed media, and visitors will be captivated by the sheer diversity and creativity of the showcased artworks. The exhibition is open to the public and is available until Dec. 8. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse in the world of art and support the creative endeavors of Western’s talented faculty.

Learn more about the Cannon Gallery of Art at Western Oregon University.

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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.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to host the 56th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, a beloved event that brings joy and unity to campus and the community. This year’s ceremony promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend. The lighting of the magnificent 123-foot sequoia tree will mark the beginning of the holiday season, creating a magical atmosphere that embodies the true spirit of the season.

The event will commence Friday, Dec. 1, at 5:30 p.m. with a cocoa and cider alumni networking event, followed by the festive holiday parade, starting at the Monmouth Library and culminating on Western’s campus, in front of the sequoia tree for the tree lighting at 6 p.m. Students, faculty, staff, community members, and the public are all invited to participate in the celebration.

Western’s President Peters emphasized in a recent OregonLive article that the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is a testament to Western’s commitment to community engagement. It serves as a reminder of the university’s dedication to being a community-focused institution that welcomes and celebrates everyone. The ceremony allows individuals to come together, connect, and celebrate each other in the season’s true spirit.

The celebration will feature a range of activities, including a holiday parade, the lighting of the tree, photo opportunities with Santa, and cookie decorating. These activities have become cherished traditions that create lasting memories for all. 

Schedule of Events:

Friday, December 1st

Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting!

5:30 p.m.: Cocoa and Cider sponsored by Alumni Relations next to the Sequoia tree

Free WOU swag will be given away on a first-come-first-serve basis.

6 p.m.: Holiday Light Parade and WOU’s Annual Tree Lighting

Celebrate the beginning of the holiday season on WOU’s campus with their 55th annual tree lighting and light parade! Enjoy Cocoa and Cider sponsored by Alumni relations next to the Sequoia tree while listening to guest speakers, celebrating essay contest winners, and watching the magnificent Tree lighting.

7:30 – 9 p.m.: Holiday Activities in the Werner University Center

Visit Santa in the Werner University Center! And while you’re there hang out and enjoy more holiday activities including holiday cookie decorating, buy Mexican Hot Chocolate and Pan Dulce from WOU’s own Kappa Delta Chi, and more!

7:30 – 9 p.m.: Walk through the “Julio Marin Aleman that audacity of identity + color” in Cannon Gallery in Campbell Hall

More information about the 56th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony.

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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, clockwise from top left: Beth Priddy, Carl Garon, Hunter Hall, Tyler Plath, Maddux Gillett, Daizy Hernandez Sorian, Shabryn Herrera, Eva Alvarez, Lilli Jacobs, Destiney Tanner

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Associated Students of Western Oregon University (ASWOU), the official student government of Western, continues to make significant strides in enhancing student life and advocating for student interests. As a student-run and student-funded organization, ASWOU is committed to representing the diverse student body at Western.

Leading the ASWOU government as President is Hunter Hall, a native of Portland. Hall brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to serving the student body. Joining Hall are several other dedicated individuals, including Daizy Hernandez Sorian, vice president, Shabryn Herrera, chief of staff, and Destiney Tanner, director of public relations. They are all from Woodburn.

“I’m the first graduate student to be the president and am extremely honored to serve in this role,” said Hall. “We spearheaded the event Paint the Town Red during Homecoming week, where businesses donated funds and sponsored student clubs and organizations by allowing them to decorate various business storefront windows around town.” Hall also expressed his gratitude toward the local businesses and his excitement to continue working with them and campus partners in the future.

Representing various regions of Oregon, the ASWOU government also includes Lilli Jacobs, recording secretary from Coos Bay, Beth Priddy, director of business and finance from Junction City, and Eva Alvarez, director of student organization from Corvallis. Maddux Gillett, from Sherwood, currently serves as the senate president, ensuring the voices of the student body are heard and represented.

Tyler Plath, judicial administrator, brings a unique background, having grown up in California and Salem. Plath’s diverse experiences will contribute to the fair and impartial administration of justice within the ASWOU government.

Carl Garon, originally from Saipan in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, will serve as the director of equity & advocacy. Garon’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and advocating for underrepresented communities will be instrumental in fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment.

In partnership with the university, ASWOU will be hosting TRU Day (Technical and Regional Universities) in May 2024, at Western’s Salem building to advocate for higher education and the hunger-free campus bill. In preparation for the short legislative session, ASWOU is exploring collaboration with the Oregon Student Association (OSA) to rally students at Western and across the state to advocate for higher education. 

The ASWOU government is excited for this academic year, dedicated to serving and representing the interests of Western students. With a diverse group of individuals, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences, the ASWOU government is poised to make a positive impact on campus.

Learn more about the ASWOU government and its initiatives.

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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.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is excited to highlight the successful journey of alumnus Juan Larios ‘01, ‘06, who currently serves as Superintendent for the Woodburn School District.

Larios, who received his undergraduate and graduate degrees in elementary education from Western, was motivated to attend college by his parents, who did not have the opportunity to attend middle school or high school. His personal experience exposed the limits his household faced, fueling his determination to become a change-maker for others. 

“Over the 23 years of my career, I’ve had the opportunity to be an elementary school principal and a high school principal. I am thrilled and honored to have been a part of this community and to continue to serve it,” shared Larios.

As Superintendent, Larios dedicates his time to fostering a supportive community for Woodburn School District students. He believes higher education has the power to transform lives, not only for individual students but also for their families. 

Larios spends significant one-on-one time with students, elevating their voices and sharing their stories. Western invites everyone to learn more about Larios’ inspiring journey and his invaluable experience at the university. His story exemplifies the transformative power of education and the impact one individual can have on an entire community. 

Learn more about Juan Larios’ journey and experience 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.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is thrilled to announce its successful inaugural open house for the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program. The event took place on Nov 4 and attracted approximately 75 attendees, with a significant number expressing strong interest in joining the first 24-25 cohort.

“The first OTD open house was an amazing success. We were ecstatic to see such enthusiasm from future OTD students and community partners,” said Sean Roush, director of the OTD program. “Our team is excited to welcome our first cohort of students next September and develop learning and service opportunities with our local community partners.

Attendees had the chance to interact with students, program faculty, and community partners, allowing them to fully grasp the enriching experience that awaits them at Western.

The application for the 24-25 inaugural cohort is now open. Aspiring occupational therapy professionals are encouraged to apply. Western is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that nurtures the growth and development of its students, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their future careers.

For individuals interested in pursuing an occupational therapy doctorate, Western is pleased to announce the upcoming open house scheduled for Dec 13. This virtual event, conducted over Zoom, will provide another opportunity for prospective students to learn more about the program’s curriculum, engage with faculty members, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the university’s commitment to healthcare education.

 About the OTD program, application, and RSVP for the open house 

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About Western Oregon UniversityWestern 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.

By Maureen Brakke, director of Marketing & Communications

The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) has selected 22 outstanding higher education leaders to participate in its 2023 Academy for New Provosts (ANP), a leadership development program designed for the specific needs of new provosts at state colleges and universities. The program, which is in its fourth year, allows cohort members to connect with their peers as they learn strategies for tackling the distinctive challenges they will face in their role. 

The 2023 Academy for New Provosts met in Washington, D.C., Oct. 24-26 for their first in-person gathering. The group will also participate in monthly virtual learning and networking sessions. ANP is made possible in part by generous support from AASCU strategic partner Ad Astra. 

Western’s new Provost Jose Coll was selected to be part of the latest cohort. Coll was most recently the Dean of the School of Social Work and Interim Dean of the College of Education at Portland State University and has held administrative and faculty positions at Texas State University, University of Southern California, and Saint Leo University. His research interests have been predominantly on worldview development and veteran transition. He is the author and co-editor of numerous publications, including The Counselor’s Primer for Counseling Veterans, The Handbook of Military Social Work, Student Veterans in Higher Education: A Primer for Administrators, and Civilian Lives of U.S. Veterans: Issues and Identities.

“AASCU is proud to once again provide specialized guidance, expertise, and support that helps newly minted provosts succeed,” said Terry Brown, vice president for academic innovation and transformation at AASCU. “The complexities of being a provost cannot be understated, and ANP members leave the program with the tools they need to enhance their leadership skills and grow into this vital role.”

ANP will prepare new provosts to build trust through effective communication; strengthen their psychological and physical resilience; navigate between the president’s vision and the expectations of faculty members; integrate academic planning with budget, facility, and IT planning; manage key relationships for success; and understand principles of exemplary academic leadership, change management, and university finance and budget.

View the 2023-24 ANP cohort.

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The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association of 350 public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to underserved student populations, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions Delivering America’s Promise.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Theatre Department is proud to announce the upcoming production of William Shakespeare’s timeless classic, Much Ado About Nothing. This play is part of the ongoing commitment to provide students with a solid foundation in the performing arts and enrich the cultural landscape of the community.

Each term, students are immersed in productions spanning various styles, from contemporary to classical. One of the lead roles is played by one of the incredibly talented students at Western, Cole Richardson. He is a senior majoring in theatre arts and will assume the role of Don John.

“This show is special because it’s the first mainstage Shakespeare play that we are doing in quite some time. Things changed a bit during the pandemic. But now we’re back and better than ever.” shared Richardson.

The performances will take place at Rice Auditorium on the following dates: Nov 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, and 18, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. There will also be a matinee performance on Nov 12 at 2:30 p.m. Additionally, there will be ASL-interpreted performances on Friday, Nov 10 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov 12, at 2 p.m.

This production promises to be a captivating and memorable experience for all. The show is open to the public to join and support the talented students who have dedicated their time and efforts to make Much Ado About Nothing a success.

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About the upcoming events/tickets for the Western Oregon University Theatre department

About Western Oregon UniversityWestern 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 proudly celebrates First-Generation College Celebration Day, a day that recognizes and celebrates the achievements and aspirations of first-generation college students. As an institution dedicated to fostering student success and support, Western takes this opportunity to showcase its commitment to supporting its 47% first-generation student body.

“First-Generation College Celebration Day is a celebration of resilience, determination, and the power of higher education to change lives,” shares President Jesse Peters. He also adds that he is a first-generation college student, and his journey was one filled with uncertainty and fear, but also a journey of excitement and wonder. 

Peters shares that he wanted to go to college to make his family proud and be a role model for other first-generation college students and that this day helps celebrate the potential every first-generation student has. “I want Western Oregon University to provide all students with the best resources to be successful, and it is particularly important to me that first-generation students feel welcomed and supported. As I always say, it’s good to be FIRST: Focused. Innovative. Resourceful. Successful. Together. We. Are. Wolves.”

The university’s dedication is evident through the wide range of resources and programs specifically designed to ensure student success. The TRIO Student Enrichment Program (TRIO SEP) and the TRIO Teacher Prep Student Support Services (TRIO TPSSS) are programs that provide first-generation students with the tools and guidance needed to excel academically, access essential resources, and achieve their educational and career goals. TRIO SEP and TRIO TPSSS serve as pillars of support, offering personalized academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, financial literacy workshops, and more.

Additionally, the university is currently undertaking a construction project to build a Student Success Center. This center will serve as a comprehensive suite of resources to enhance students’ educational experiences. It will house TRIO programs, academic advising, career services, and additional support services all under one roof and will further simplify access to the assistance first-generation students need to thrive.

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 About TRIO TPSSS, TRIO SEP, and Western’s ongoing support for first-generation students.

About Western Oregon UniversityWestern 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.

Image: Kristen Perry, director of Abby’s House

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University was recently awarded a substantial three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women, totaling $396,766. This grant is poised to catalyze a transformative initiative to enhance awareness and foster essential training on the critical issues of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking among Western students.

The grant will fund projects through Abby’s House, which provides the campus community with educational opportunities, resources, and referral services designed to promote equity and non-violence. The projects are set to invigorate and fortify Western’s Wolves Against Interpersonal Violence Committee (WAIV), which has long championed the cause of addressing these pressing societal issues. The committee’s strategic plan will be reinvigorated, synergizing their multifaceted endeavors, while forging an array of external partnerships to create a coordinated community response team. This initiative will play a pivotal role in expanding prevention education, with a particular emphasis on tailoring programs to meet the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ community.

The grant will also fund a full-time coordinator who will supervise many areas of this project, co-chair the WAIV committee, and oversee prevention for the campus community.

“We are thrilled to seize this incredible opportunity to further our commitment to sexual violence prevention on campus and to appoint a dedicated staff member who will spearhead this project,” exclaimed Kristen Perry, director of Abby’s House and principal investigator for this grant. “We are confident that this endeavor will usher in a new era of possibilities for our campus, allowing us to infuse creativity into our work.” Perry also extends her appreciation to Malissa Larson, dean of students for her unwavering support and Western’s Sponsored Projects Office for their management of the grant process.

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About Abby’s House, Center for Equity & Gender Justice at Western Oregon University

The mission of Abby’s House is to provide the campus community with educational opportunities, resources, and referral services designed to promote equity and non-violence. We embrace a feminist model that empowers all people to actively stand against all forms of violence and oppression while providing safety, support, and space for healing to individuals who experience disruptions in their well-being.

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MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University invites aspiring occupational therapists and  the general public to an open house for the new Doctorate in Occupational Therapy program starting fall of 2024 this Saturday, Nov. 4 from 1-3 p.m. The event will be held at the WOU: Salem building located at 525 Trade Street in Salem, providing attendees the opportunity to explore the home of the new program.

“We are so excited to unveil the first doctoral program at Western, as it will support healthcare access to Salem and the neighboring communities in Oregon,” shared Halley Read, doctoral capstone coordinator. “ The open house is a great chance to meet faculty, explore the WOU: Salem office, and discover how occupational therapy can be both a rewarding and enjoyable career path.”

The following outlines the agenda for the open house:

1. Informal tours and networking
   • Prospective students will have the chance to tour the building and connect with faculty.
2. Presentation of the new doctorate degree
   • Join for a comprehensive presentation on the exciting features and benefits of the newly established doctoral program. Discover how this program can propel your career in the field of occupational therapy to new heights.
3. Q&A session and more networking
   • Engage in a Q&A session to clarify any doubts or inquiries about the program. Network with faculty and staff to gain valuable insights and build connections.

This event will provide a unique opportunity for prospective students, their families, and anyone interested in the occupation therapy field and learn about Western’s commitment to providing innovative learning and research opportunities. This program will truly equip students with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in the field of occupational therapy.

WOU Salem office address:
525 Trade St. SE, Salem, OR 97301

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About the occupational therapy doctoral program

About Western Oregon UniversityWestern 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.

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