LTR: Dr. Breeann Flesch; Western Oregon University, Dr. Brian Hall; Champlain College, and Dr. Roberto Flores; Christopher Newport College

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Graduate Studies & Research interim Dean Breeann Flesch, Ph.D., presented on artificial intelligence to Congress in DC last month during a showcase for the Congressional Artificial Intelligence Caucus. The event brought together experts from academia, government, and the private sector to inform policymakers on the technological, economic, and social impacts of AI. As one of only 14 National Science Foundation awardees invited to present at the event, Flesch and grant cohort partners were recognized as vital contributors to shaping AI policy, education, and workforce development in the country. 

“Generative AI is poised to revolutionize various aspects of our lives, from creative industries to education,” said Breeann Flesch, Ph.D., interim dean of Graduate Studies and Research. “As higher education institutions seek to prepare students for the future, faculty and staff must learn to effectively utilize, teach, and critically evaluate generative AI tools. By understanding the capabilities, limitations, and ethical implications of this technology, educators can ensure that students are equipped to harness its potential responsibly.”

Flesch’s invitation highlights Western Oregon University’s commitment to innovation in education through industry-relevant programs and partnerships. This includes participation in the NSF’s Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIC) program, which enhances the applied research capabilities of Primarily Undergraduate Institutions, ultimately preparing students for a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Through these initiatives, Western engages students with emerging technologies, addressing the needs of a modern workforce while fostering local innovation. Flesch was part of a select group of awardees representing one of only three projects from the NSF’s TIP Directorate. Notably, Western’s cohort, which includes Champlain College and Christopher Newport University, were the sole representatives of the EPIIC program at this significant event.

About the AI Caucus:

The AI Caucus operates in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate, with a bipartisan mission to engage lawmakers, experts, and industry leaders in discussions about the implications of rapid AI innovation. Founded by U.S. Representatives Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA) and Jay Obernolte (R-CA) in the House, and led by Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) in the Senate, the Caucus focuses on developing policies that support AI’s growth while also considering its ethical implications. This dialogue is essential for ensuring that AI development benefits all Americans while maintaining the country’s competitive edge globally.

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About Western Oregon University

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

SAN ANTONIO – The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities is pleased to announce the second cohort of its Enlace Mid-level Leadership Program. Fifty-four participants have been selected to begin the program this fall. Cristian Mendez Garcia, assistant director of Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives from Western Oregon University was selected to participate in this leadership program.

The six-month leadership development program for mid-level college and university professionals is designed to increase the number, variety, and quality of Latino/a talent in leadership positions at Hispanic-Serving Institutions and in higher education overall.

Selectees will participate in programming covering academic and student affairs management, regional institutional accreditation, diversity, equity and inclusion, and higher education advocacy issues. Participants will also interact with a professional search firm.

“Participating in the HACU Leadership Program presents an incredible opportunity to learn from inspiring individuals committed to uplifting underrepresented communities,” said Mendez Garcia. “I eagerly anticipate furthering my growth alongside dedicated professionals who are passionately advancing equity in postsecondary education.”

The sessions will be delivered through a series of online meetings and also in-person sessions that will take place in November 2024 at HACU’s Annual Conference in Aurora, Colorado, and at the National Capitol Forum in Washington, D.C., in April 2025. The program will conclude with a graduation ceremony.

Special thanks to Capital One* and the Mellon Foundation** for their support in providing grant funding for select participants.

See additional participant information.

About HACU

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, founded in 1986, represents more than 500 colleges and universities in the United States, Latin America, Spain, and school districts throughout the U.S. HACU is the only national association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). The Association’s headquarters are in San Antonio, Texas, with regional offices in Washington, D.C., Sacramento, California, and Chicago, Illinois.

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About Western Oregon University

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

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to announce its annual tree planting and celebration of trees event on September 27 at noon. This event is part of Western’s recognition as a Tree Campus Higher Education institution by the Arbor Day Foundation and is open to the public.

Participants will meet on the west side of the Werner University Center to learn about and celebrate the importance of trees in our environment. The event will feature a short walking tour where participants can learn about the diverse tree species on campus, engage in great conversations, and take part in planting a tree.

The event is open to the public. 

Learn more about Tree Campus Higher Education. 

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About Western Oregon University

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

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees recently welcomed seven new trustees after being nominated by Governor Tina Kotek and confirmed by The Oregon State Senate on September 25, 2024. 

The new trustees are as follows:

Jim Vu is an entrepreneur, business owner, and consultant with a strong background in banking and finance. Vu has been involved with the Salem Chamber of Commerce and was recognized as their Distinguished Service award in 2023. He has also served as President of the Salem Main Street Association and is involved with the Chemeketa Small Business Development Center. Vu is filling a vacant position. His term on the board starts October 1, 2024, and ends October 30, 2026.

Juan Larios is the Superintendent of Woodburn Public Schools and serves on the Marion and Polk County Early Learning Hub Board. Larios is a double Western alum, receiving his undergraduate and graduate degrees in elementary education. Larios is filling a vacant position. His term on the board starts October 1, 2024, and ends June 30, 2028.

Kate Schwarzler is a consultant who has worked to support businesses and consulted nonprofits, local governments, and state and federal agencies. Schwarzler was raised in rural Polk County with deep ties to the community. She owns Indy Commons, a coworking space in Independence,  is an Independence City Council member, and is currently running for Mayor of Independence. She is filling a position previously held by Trustee Cec Koontz who had termed off the board. Schwarzler’s term starts October 1, 2024, through June 30, 2026.

Mark Zook, is the President and CEO of MAPS Credit Union. He also runs the MAPS Charitable Foundation and is active in the Salem Chamber of Commerce and with several nonprofits in the Salem area. Zook is also a Western alum, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration. Zook received the 2023 Western Oregon University Alumni Service to Community Award.  He is filling a vacant position and his term begins October 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028. 

Rey Perez is a Senior IS Program Manager in Clinical Engineering at Providence Health & Services. He is also a Western alum, earning a bachelor’s degree in education. He is replacing Trustee Susan Castillo whose term expired on June 30. His term begins October 1, 2024, through June 30, 2026. 

Viviana Romero (She/They) will serve as the undergraduate student voting member on the board and is an honors student majoring in communication. Last year, Romero served as the Incidental Fee Committee Chair, previously as President of the Residential Hall Association, and was a Housing and Dining Advisory Committee member. She is replacing Trustee Danielle Campbell whose term expired June 30. Her term begins October 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.

Hunter Hall will serve as the graduate student voting member on the board. He is currently working towards his master’s degree in teaching. In 2023, Hall graduated from Western with two bachelor’s degrees; in mathematics and interdisciplinary studies with a double minor in communication and writing. He has also served as the Vice President and President of the Associated Students of Western Oregon University. Hall plans to go on to teach middle school math with the aim of becoming a school Principal and Superintendent. This is a newly created position in compliance with SB 273 implemented by the Oregon State Legislature in 2023. His term begins October 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.

“I am delighted to welcome the new members of our Board of Trustees. I extend my sincere gratitude to the current and former board members for their dedicated efforts,” said Angela Fasana, board chair. “I look forward to collaborating with the new trustees as we continue our commitment to making Western Oregon University an exceptional destination for students.”

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 About Western Oregon University

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

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University Foundation in partnership with Parallel 45 Brewing is excited to announce the launch of a new WOU beer, this Friday, September 27 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Parallel 45 Brewing in Independence. 

This event marks the debut of Wolf Tracks Ale, a seasonal fresh hops craft beer that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also supports the WOU football program. A portion of the proceeds from every pint sold will directly benefit Wolves Football, helping to foster community spirit and support local student-athletes. 

A special guest bartender will pour drafts during the event to make the evening even more memorable. Enjoy great company, delicious drinks, and an opportunity to contribute to WOU’s football program. This no-host event is open to the public.

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About Western Oregon University

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

LTR: Darian M. Noll with grandparents Karin and Ronald T. Noll

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University alumnus Galen B. Nielsen ‘66, embarked on a journey of education and service that would span four generations at Western.

In 1965, Nielsen and his wife, Louise, moved to Monmouth, Ore. with their four daughters where he completed his degree in mathematics at Western. He then went on to receive his master’s degree at Oregon State University while teaching at Western and then became the head of the math department at Linn-Benton Community College. In 1973, Nielsen joined the Saudi Arabian Coast Guard and lived and worked in Saudi Arabia with his family for the next 15 years before he retired. 

Nielsen’s two eldest daughters, Carole and Karin, attended Western in 1972. In 1974, Karin joined her parents in Saudi Arabia for a few months and met her husband Ron. They returned to Monmouth in 1977 for her to complete a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, then moved back to work in Saudi Arabia. In 1983, they returned to Monmouth once again, this time for Karin to earn her master’s degree in education.

In 2003, Karin’s daughter Katherine attended Western and graduated with a degree in earth science. She then moved to China and taught biology for 14 years. 

The fourth generation of the family, Katherine’s son Darian, began his educational journey at Western in 2020. “My first day of school was actually in 2003 when my mother dropped me off at daycare on campus as she had a full schedule of classes to attend. Sixteen years later I was able to be a student and play baseball this time. I felt at home being on Western’s campus and I miss it every day,” shared Darian. He adds that it was important for him to attend Western because three prior generations of his family received their education and started their families at Western. “This university has helped shape me and my family into the people we are today. Thank you Western for the hospitality. Go Wolves!”  

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About Western Oregon University

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

Destination Western’s 23-24 cohort

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s 2024 Destination Western Program starts September 11 through September 20.

Destination Western is an all-expenses paid ten-day residential bridge orientation program designed to help new students build the skills needed to succeed in college-level writing and math as well as connect them socially. Students will participate in academic sessions throughout the program in small groups, and in academic activities, workshops, and social events.

“We are thrilled to embark on our fourth year of Destination Western! This year we welcome 160 new wolves committed to hitting the ground running and investing in themselves to be as successful as they can be during their time at WOU. I can’t wait to feel their energy on campus as they learn to call this special place home,” said Megan Habermann-Guthrie, Director of New Student & Family Programs.

There are several benefits to participating in the program. Those taking part in Destination Western live in the residence halls with other participants, have the chance to make friends and create their WOU community, meet faculty and staff dedicated to student success, learn to navigate the campus before the fall term starts, get early access to academic and campus resources, and receive free on-campus housing and meals throughout the experience.

Learn more about Destination Western

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About Western Oregon University

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

Photo by Lucia Micarelli & Leo Amuedo 

MONMOUTH, Ore. –A half-dozen music and dance groups will delight and amaze audiences with their diverse styles and world-class abilities during the 2024-25 Smith Fine Arts Series beginning in October at Western Oregon University’s Rice Auditorium. From mariachi to the music of Wes Anderson films–and a little bit of everything in between–the Smith Series has much to offer during its 47th season.

Series subscriptions and individual performance tickets are available for purchase. Act now to guarantee your seats.

October 11, 2024

Lucia Micarelli & Leo Amuedo

Lucia Micarelli and Leo Amuedo combine to shatter the boundaries of genre and tradition. Micarelli is a violinist, singer, and actress who has performed with Josh Groban, Barbara Streisand, and Jethro Tull. The Grammy-nominated guitarist Amuelo has worked with Stevie Wonder, Chris Botti, and legendary Brazilian singer Ivan Lins. Listen to magic happen as Micarelli and Amuedo create their own sound.

December 7, 2024

Grupo Bella

The Los Angeles-based Grupo Bella elegantly expands the styles of traditional Mexican folk performance. With an ever-evolving sound, the quintet’s interpretations of Mexican Folk are supported by expert musicianship and sheer passion. While their instrumentation is familiarly mariachi, what emerges is an enticing fusion of Mexican Pop, Boleros, Huasteco, and more. Todos son bienvenidos.

January 8, 2024

Emily Branch

Emily Schoen Branch’s choreography blends masterful dancing with subtlety and heart. This contemporary repertory concert features dance works spanning 13 years, original musical compositions, poetry by the renowned poet David Whyte, and a dynamic cast of five magnetic dancers. Through wit, fervor, and tenderness, the performance invites audience members to see themselves in the artists on stage.

March 15, 2025

Marty Isenberg’s Wes Anderson Playlist

Bassist Marty Isenberg and his ensemble of young, extremely talented musicians capture the melancholy, wonder, and precision of filmmaker Wes Anderson. Isenberg has been part of the New York City music scene for more than two decades and played at legendary venues such as Birdland and the Blue Note, as well as on Broadway. He has also toured nationally and internationally, bringing his unique blend of jazz, classical music, theater, and contemporary music to audiences across the world.

April 12, 2025

BEO String Quartet

Founded by two Mexican-American brothers in 2015, the eclectic and highly polished Beo String Quartet is a daring, genre-defying ensemble. BEO plays a standard classical repertoire of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, and Shostakovich, along with contemporary composers including Gabriela Ortiz (Mexico), Missy Mazzoli (USA), and its own Sean Neukom. BEO is a hip, full-immersion group that is compelling, thought-provoking, and musically satisfying.

June 7, 2025

The Revelers

The Grammy-nominated band The Revelers is dedicated to the “holy trinity” of Cajun culture: hot music, all-night dancing, and great food. Their sound encompasses the genre-bending world of Louisiana music, including swamp pop, zydeco, and Americana. Synthesizing these genres with old-school Louisiana music, The Revelers have created a “Louisiana jukebox” that is at once modern and traditional. Have your feet prepared for a lively evening of dancing and toe-tapping with The Revelers.

All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Leonard W. Rice Auditorium at Western Oregon University. Everyone is welcome to come as they are and experience the transformative power of music and dance with the Smith Fine Arts Series. Get more information.

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About Smith Fine Arts Series

The Smith Fine Arts Series was launched by music professor Edgar H. Smith during the 1976-1977 school year. Since then, the series, which was renamed for him after his death in 1979, has provided world-class performances for people of all ages and educational outreach to thousands of mid-Willamette Valley students.

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

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

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

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

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

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

View the 2023-2024 Annual Report.

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About The Western Oregon University Foundation

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Western Community Policing Institute 

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About Western Oregon University

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

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