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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About Western Oregon University

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About Western Oregon University

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

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Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University has named Adeya Powell, Ph.D., the new Institutional Research Director, effective August 30, 2024.

Powell holds a doctorate in Research, Evaluation, Measurement, and Statistics from the University of Georgia and is a Southern Regional Educational Scholar. With training and experience in survey and instrument development, program evaluation, and statistical analysis, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her position. 

Powell has over five years of experience in higher education. Three of those years were spent as Assistant Director of Institutional Research at the University of Portland, where she was commended for her assessment of equity gaps and her design and creation of a UP-centered campus climate survey. 

Her dream to lead an IR office at a school whose mission and strategic plan aligned with hers led her to Western. In her new role, she intends to facilitate the university’s transformation into a data-driven decision-making community that supports student success, using a combination of her skills and training, which include statistics, evaluation, research, and survey development.

 

“Powell brings a wealth of experience to this role, with a proven track record in data-driven decision-making and a deep understanding of our university’s mission,” says Provost Jose Coll. “Her leadership in institutional research is exactly what is needed to drive Western forward.” Coll also thanks Michael Baltzley, Ph.D., for his leadership in serving as the Director of Institutional Research. He appreciates the expertise and commitment Baltzley brought to this role for the past several years.”

 

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About Western Oregon University

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

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MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces the undergraduate students that have been named to the Honor Roll and President’s list for their academic honors for spring 2024. 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 students have been named to the Spring 2024 Honor Roll:

Students from Oregon cities

Adair Village
Lanie Happy
Katie Hay
Caleb Ness
Chrystal  Shearer

Albany
Libby Aithwaite
Emma Bales
Zaley Bennett
Alyssa Bevins
Reyna Blaylock-Ortega
Rebecca Briggs
Alexis Chapman
Billy France-Bagwell
Brianna Frazzini
Saige Garland
Jacob Glen
Chloe Goettl
Keisha Gonzalez-Ortiz
Yuliana Heern Rojas
Zane Hix
Faith Howle
Haley James
Kailey Jensen
Allie Johnson
Tiffany Markham
Peighton Markwood
Lauren McCool
Alyssa Mendoza
Greyshia Mercado
SaKoma Mickelsen
Jamie Myrick-Duckett
Julie Narvaez
Emanuel Perez-Hernandez
Raechel Presson
Emily Rushing
Emily Sears
Madison Wang
Ahni Washburn
Charles Williams
Samantha Winkler
Kyler Wolfe
Hailie Wright

Aloha
Jesus Andrade Perez
Jacey Carmean
Michelle Gadbois
Remedan Seman

Amity
Alexander Bliven
Alden Bond
Cody Dyche
Brooke Lopez

Astoria
Bailey Kaul
Isaiah Rodriguez

Aumsville
Breanna Culbertson
Elizabeth Koch
Brittany Lucas
Lillian Roth
Lunafreyja Schafer
Lindsey Yechout

Aurora
Sophie Davenport
Esperanza Martinez Davis
Krysta Nelson

Baker City
Andrew Ferns

Brandon
Holly Hutton
Shannon Smith

Banks
Ian Bodine
Aneli Godinez-Martinez
Madeline Jacobs

Beavercreek
Michael House

Beaverton
Bailey Browning
Rylie Cader
Hector Cazares
Jenna Crouse
Rami Dear
Adriana Garcia
Adelecia Garfias
Riley Groshong
Krista Haas
Sarah Hutchinson
Aidan Ionis
Marta Kribs
MacKenzie Leslie
Anthony Mendez
Zoey Merriman
Shantelle Montero
Nic Ostlund-Arce
Aubree Parga
Senetenari Porotesano
Jasmine Roggenbuck
Kira Shelton
Andrew Simpson
Jadyn Smith
Kyle Thompson
Noely Torres Gutierrez
Christian Tran
Brenda Zamudio

Bend
Jayda Crawford
Tessa Dodge
Alissa Hull
Sophie Matlock
Alex Michaels
Emily Moore
Emily Olson
Carson Perl
Kyana Quintero
Teanna Russell

Blodgett
Ella Mainwaring

Boardman
Isabella Dilley
Natalie Lomeli
Leslie Lopez
April Mendieta

Bonanza
Corey Thompson

Boring
Trevor Jones
Canby
Melissa Goldbeck
Diana Heintz-Rios
Emma Vandecoevering

Carlton
Gretchen Sims

Central Point
Alyssa Kilbane
Jacob Memmott
Chloe Staley
Averi Young

Clackamas
Olivia Doane
Aniela Erbe
Gideon Gallagher
Sammy Maciokas
Rachel Morrison
Denise Ramirez-Sanchez
Nathan Richardson

Clatskanie
Shawn Harrion
Stephen Hartley
Maya Helmen
Grace Tallman

Coburg
Breanna Lindsey

Coos Bay
Sierra Brouse
Brooklyn Culver
Kodee Harwood
Tessa Medina

Coquille
Keira Breitkreutz

Corbett
Rowan Vasen

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

Corvallis
Ty Abernathy
Drew Armour
Abigail Astanin
Leela Ayres
Alexandra Beattie
Grace Bixby
Kanoa Blake
Alexander Buck
Regina Chacon
Kelly Gardner
Grace Hargett
Haley Hass
Samuel Herford
Tabitha Hinkley
Meiping Hong
Ophelia Katsikis
Leomaris Kelley
Kaiya Leamy
Jordan Mata
Grace McAlister
Mateo McCann
Ana McClave
Nathan Mitchell
Brooke Moade
Moksha Mokma
Max Morano
Yannie Reyes-Alvarez
Jerred Shifflett
Hassan Sindi
Toni Viramontes
Andrew Wolf
Cameron Wright

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

Culver
Shanti Rosales
Ian Stevens

Dallas
Logan Beck
Maddie Blanchard
Danielle Bosse
Rachel Boyce
Nikole Ceballos
Katelyn Cooley
Naomi Cruickshank
Drea Dalke
Meagan Dickey
Madeline Doig
Seth Ellingsworth
Kala Geissinger
Kristen Guerra
Luke Hagedorn
Jake Hendrickson
Joshua Hobson
Brieanna Howard
Caleb Ihne
Alyssa Irwin
Hayley Johnson
Caleb Kiner
Morgan Kumnick
Cameron Mance
Braxton McFarland
Nicole McKinney
Justus  Mikkelsen
Ryan Miller
Wesley Mullins
Benjamin Nelson
Brady Parksion
Shane Pelinski
Riley Petersen
Cassy Polen
Shelby Rayburn
Katie Reimer
Angie Rodriguez
Heather Seals
Tommy Segovia
Maverick Smith
Kameron Spicer
Daniel Toma
Cora Watkin

Emily Webb
Amy Beth Whitfield
Damascus
Noah Maestas
Anneliese Stricker

Dayton
Ethan Hedgecock
Caspian Price

Depoe Bay
Josef Kavadas

Dufur
Derek Frakes

Eddyville
Madison Huhn

Elkton
Cooper Peters

Estacada
Travis Jackson
Trinity Murin

Eugene
Lauren Becraft
Ashlyn Bitikofer
Molly Blanchette
Naomi Collins
Russell Farr
Sage Gartley
Diana Gray
Marsted Hall
Briana Kubli
Stephanie Leon-Leon
Daphne Malpass
Augustine Manalansan
Leslie Monjaras
Harper Neubeck
Melvin Niles
Phoebe Notenboom
Grace Savage
Sierra Taylor
Jose Vasquez Maya
Ashley Weaver

Falls City
Brynn Abeling
Amber Houghtaling
Kassidi Thompson

Forest Grove
Audrey Fasching
Persephone Green
Simon Kimberly
Anayeli Manriquez Gonzalez
Ellie Mosier
Alyssa Nguyen
Gabriela Orr
David Rodriguez-Tapia
Kelsie Shirley
Philip Staniunas

Gales Creek
Rylie Voivedich

Gaston
Owen Carney
Jayson Johnson

Gervais
Sarahi Bazan Guerrero
Kellen Betancourt
Jessica Contreras Froylan
Jazmin Gutierrez
Elianeth Pineda
Autumn Tanner

Glide
Victoria Linne

Gold Beach
Ruby Matteson

Grand Junction
Erica Guddat

Grants Pass
Sally Berg
Grant Bohannon
Ethan Burdis
Clark Callahan
Devin Collins
Haley Dougherty
James Duane
Tiara Hauser
Noel Sandeen
Shelby Sheehan
Evangelyn Tobin

Gresham
Brittany Austin
Lexi Blevens
Alex Burton
Jaidah Garcia
Sammy Gates
Taylor Haggard
Catrina Kelly
Bailey Lowry
Ikemba Orisakwe
Emily Schneider

Halsey
Megan James
Allison Keel

Happy Valley
Ujunwa Nwokoma
Jakob Ritter
Maddy Wilson
Jordan Yeager
Carson Yon
Henry Yon

Harrisburg
Jillian Barnhurst
Adrian Esgate

Hebo
Gustavo Camacho-Jr

Hillsboro
Jose Francisco Aguilar Rojas
Christine Anders
Michael Dingle
Jeffrey Falla
Hana Frey
Andrew Gallina
Brittani Geniza
Alison Maldonado
Yahir Ocampo Navarro
Eugenia Perez
Jasmine Pfafman
Claire Rickis
Lourdes Salazar
Areli Santos Gomez
Coen Stapleton
Matthew Taylor
Amanda Vanderhoof
Aidan VanDyke
Manuel Vasquez
Camila Villastrigo
Abigail Wallace

Hood River
Clay Noteboom

Hubbard
Cecilia Rodriguez

Idanha
Daelynn Aerni

Independence
Havalah Altamirano
Patricia Alvarado Azua
Kayla Buffington
Gwyneth Couey
Abby Davis
Emma  Delgado
Anabelen Garcia Estrada
Stephanie Herrera
Angel Larios
Jesus Larios
Norma Manzo Jauregui
Vanya Martinez
Julissa Mateo
Angela Mendoza
Andrea Mendoza
Vickie Ortiz Martinez
Delfino Perez Martinez
Gracee Potter
Rae Pound
Alex Prine
Lexy Ramos
Elle Robischon
Perla San Miguel Morales
Sofie Stonebrink
John Thoma
Daisy Torres Flores
Joshua Wall
Miryam Waterman Cervantes

Jacksonville
Nicholas Karrick
Rosalee Wirfs

Jefferson
Daniel Aguilar
Roselind Alejandre Morales
Leslie Alvarez
Nicole Bruce
Cassie Cheever
Kaylee Ferguson
Alyssa Kreder
Madi LaCrosse
Elizabeth McCall
Mariel Nunez Medina
Stephanie Schwarz
Benjamin Shown
Cristian Toriz Jimenez

Keizer
Sabella Alfaro
Joe Ramiro Alvarado
Jacob Amerino
Saige Baldwin
Cadance Bunch
Fernando Calvillo
Tyler Copeland
Michael Deladurantaye
Cj Denison
Gage DuBois
Kaitlyn Duncanson
Ashlee Ellis
Beyonce Eslava
Joseline Flores
Tristan Goucher
Alivia Hall
Meredith Hegewald
Caitlyn Kiefiuk Yates
Hannah Kuper
Alfred Licona Molina
Layne Ling
Kayla Miller
Kira Nelson
Reda Nguon
Jazmin Orta
Tyler Payne
Kate Ronning
Olena Rumbaugh
Noah Schnell
Jasmine Scott
Lily Snyder
Ellyana Suek
Jordan Vance
Alejandro Villarreal
Sophia Waldon

King City
Alyssa Worthey

Klamath Falls
Dominic Hankins
Stephen Hantzmon
Jadyn Luckman
Ruth Simonsen
Hayden Smith

La Grande
Devin Bell

La Pine
Olivia Flack

Lafayette
Abby Gladwill
Alexis Pacheco
Morgan Poulos

Lake Oswego
Lorna Herrera

Lebanon
Zoya Altuhova
Leticia Barbosa
Caitlyn Bilodeau
Sawyer Brubaker-Bustillos
Joel Carlson
McKenzie Francis
Glenn Holland
Sadie Latimer
Laura Lovell
Madison Romeo
Emma Rose
Daisy Torres Lopez

Lincoln City
Taj Brandes
Kaylon Cobb
Brenda Ortiz Cruz
Hailey Weaver

Lowell
Katie Chapman

Lyons
Kira Pease

Madras
Matthew Frazer
Ian Phillips
Saoirse Phillips
Cassandra Wells
Zephen Wilkinson

McMinnville
Kendra Acker
Mason Akers
Athena Bourne
Alejandra Ceja Montes
Stephanie Diaz
Jadielynn Elkins
Madeline Fluke
Ashley Foss
Aracely Garcia Arenas
Diego Gil
Abri Huerta
Matt Kirsch
Jennifer Lopez-Zavala
Evelyn Mendoza Vargas
Maria Mendoza-Ceja
Noah Miller
Hailey Myers
Juan Ornelas
Marie Palacios
Vanessa Quintero
Anna Reddick
Alexander Roush
Kaydi Stevenson
Maria Tzintzun

Medford
Aiden Cook
Ella Coulman
Elwood Hosking
Charlotte Hreha
Mallory Meilicke
Jaxon Moser
Kyla Potratz
Jesus Villa

Mill City
Lili Lyness Morales

Milwaukie
Cami Ansley
Brandon Bean
Alyssa Danielly
Sly Luckett
Halia Richter
Emily Scheible

Molalla
Alondra Gomez Camacho

Monmouth
Esmeralda Amescua
Jackson Bouchard
Lillian Boyack
Jordan Clark
Paru Dahal
Katie Dufner
Andrew Esch
Kaylee Hatch
Emily Heisinger
Sarah Hoogendam
Berean Jones
Josiah Jones
Alex Lofton
Yesenia Lopez
Emilie Means
Oliver Meyr
Kailey Newbeck
Skyler Neyenhuis
Ellie Osborn
Marcie Pacheco
Easton Pomrankey
JP Powers
Kaitlyn Puffpaff
Zoe Robb
Brynn Rodrigues
Jackson Schoenbachler
Victoria Statsenko
Olga Statsenko
Riley Stearns
Carrie Visuano
Sadie Wendring
Kaitlyn Woodard

Monroe
Trenton Bateman

Mt. Angel
Jacquelyn Mendoza-Cortes

Mt. Hood
Mallory McNerney

Mt. Angel
Owen Bischoff

Myrtle Creek
Aubrey Rainville

Myrtle Point
Seth Hamlin

Newburg
Peyton Carmon
Rilee Carstensen
Angelina Chhay
Elaine Green
Morgin Hubbard
Rebecca Kessler
Anya Kohl
Madeline Lambing
Olivia Ranum
Elizabeth Saager
Avery Sokol Blosser
Scarlett Steenson

Newport
Flor Aparicio- Reyes
Hailee Carmody
James Lackey
Jamie Martinson
Kolby Spink
Jade Weber

North Bend
Brynne Hathorn
Joey Jensen

North Plains
Ethan Bothwell
Courtney Severns

Oak Grove
Lucas Montpart

Oakland
Veronica Sigl
Fontelle Witten

Oakridge
Madaline Maher

Odell
Ayden Phelps

Ontario
Maria Cerezo-Perez

Oregon City
Alexis Belmore
Cameron Collier
Ethan DeVries
Chloe Galambos
Michael Gibson
Kylie Griffin
Derek Heintz
Hanne Hopkins
Maddie Hornback
Lauren Mallen
Lily Meier
Kira Riggen
KatieRose Sarmiento
Shane Tacla
Zach Zumwalt

Otis
Ashley Brosch
Bridgett Marsh

Pacific City
Lionel Brown

Paisley
Cody Dickenson

Pendleton
DeLaney Duchek
Joshua Mendoza
Baylie Panduro-Santana
Anahi Ponce
Elijah Tabellija

Philomath
Chloie Hamsher
Alyson Todd

Pleasant Hill
Samuel Hogervorst

Portland
Jackson Albrecht
Kate Badon
Gretta Baker
Jessa Brame
Sarah Buckenmeyer
Audrey Colburn
Gillian Coplin
Bryce Coverdale
Fab Dormezil
Kaylee DuPont
Briar Durias
Ellie Erdahl
Joselin Factor Najera
Laura Ferry
Vanesa Frutos Rodriguez
Brandon Fuller
Sophia Gaskill
Arianna Gsell
Paulina Gutierrez
Caedon Hawk
Casey Hill
Alexi Howard
Edson Jimenez-Sutton
Jeneba Diane King
Jaidyn Kron
Cody Little-Reece
Caprial Loescher
Nicholas Loftis
Johnny Martinez-Isaac
Olivia May
Matthew McCarthy
Marco Millan
Lili Minato
Jose Carlos Miramontes Somerville
Mackenzie Morrow
Jean Moss
Andrew Nguyen
John Oleson
Katerin Ortiz
Alden Roy
Rowan Saadat
Charlie Scott
Adam Shuey
Miles Smith
Marshay Spencer
Mya India Thomas
Morgan Thorud
Brianna Trickel
Lily Urueta Lothman

Prineville
Brooke Everest
Henry Fonseca
Shayla Stites Jayne

Rainier
Aidan Korff

Redmond
Ariel Aylsworth
Gabriela Jimenez
Jose Rojas Olivares

Riddle
Lomasi Kerr
Tessa Powell

Roseburg
Giovanni Boyle
Taylor Davis
Cybelle MacLean
Sarah Sibley
Sage Villa

Salem
Sierra Ackerman
Sarah Adams
Julian Aguilar-Tomas
Joselo Alarconsoto
Ezra Alexander
Melissa Allen
Mahalia Alvarez
Oscar Alvarez
Yeudiel Alvarez Flores
Orlando Alvarez Flores
Elizabeth Alvarez Mendoza
Daniel Andrawes
Martha Arredondo Pacheco
Osvaldo Ascencio-Mendoza
Karlie Asman
Micayla Austin
Samantha Bailey
India Baker
Aubrey Baker
Ashley Banker
Adrien Beiswenger
Yesli Bejar Reyes
Andrew Bendt
Kyle Blair
Brooke Bolen
Lexy Bolsinger
Jessica Bravo-Hurtado
Kiyah Brown
Caleb Bunch
Aleah Monique Camacho
Annika Campbell
Ariel Cannon
Paola Casco Navas
Josh Chapin
Diana Chavez Hernandez
Will Childress-Cameron
Lucas Clark
Emma Cordero
Keysel Corea-San Emeterio
Peter Crall
Steffany Crapser
Kimberly Cristobal Gutierrez
Brandon Dade
Merik Danielson
Malia Darras
Annaka Davidson
Karina Davila
Melissa De La Lima
Aleta Debolt
Kaylin Dehut
Diego Diaz
Alighieri Diaz
Maycol Diaz Olivarez
Robert Downard
Samuel Dreyer
Abbi Duhart
Jessica Duran
Jocelyn Duran Jacobo
Chloe Eberz
Carlos Espino
Marcos Espinoza Gomez
Marinel Joy Falalimpa
Tatum Farrell
Levi Fast
Logan Fay
Fernando Fernandez
Ashley Flores Guzman
Sabrina Ford
Lucas Fromherz
Mya Fry
Nathan Furgison
Raul Garcia Duran
Brenda Garcia Garibay
Ian Garcia Hernandez
Mirella Garcia Rodriguez
Manuel Garibay
Daisy Garibay Garibay
Jessica Garibay Ochoa
Nancy Gatica Nolasco
Annie Gehm
Paul Ghalili
Anna Gillock
Mallory Gisler
Katelyn Gleason
Erick Gonzalez Bejar
Pedro Govea
Lars Greene
Wesley Gutierrez
Andrew Gwin
Angela Hage
Ethan Halgren
Kaylee Hall
Kurestin Hamaker
Amelia Hamilton
Eddy Hardin Amador Rivera
Hayley Harr
Kaitlyn Harris
Julio Herrera Anzaldo
Paola Herrera Garcia
Nicholas Himler
Alex Hitchen
Abigail Huber
Stacy Jackson
Evan Jackson
NakyaJay
Malin Jenkins
Vi Johnson
Brett Jones
Daley Jones
Silas Kargel
Frank Kern
James Kivett
Trinity Kress
Litzy Ku Beiza
Liv Lardy
Alexis Large-Cooley
Alecia Lemeza
Linda Llanos Garcia
Juliette Lloyd
Sienna Longan
Makikiane Makaichy
Alexis Marroquin Contreras
Sadie Martin
Isaac Mayhugh
Georgia McClorey
Laurie McCoy
Madison McDougal
Gwynndolyn McKinley
Alexandra Mckinzie
Nik Meade
Christopher Means
Miguel Medina Ortiz
Colin Meier
America Moreno-Garcia
Nancy Mota Gonzalez
Kayli Nagel
Kathryn Newswanger
Kaydence Nguyen
Hailey Notman
Jackson Noud
Christian Ochoa-Fernandez
Nate Okada
Alyssa Parr
Alan Parra Navarro
Lizzy Peacock
Jennifer Perez Ramos
Joaquin Pesqueira
Miranda Pfeil
Lua Pierce
Sierra Porter
Justice Presley
Brian Preston
Katie Putnam
Kayla Pylis
Annabella Ramey
Yuri Ramirez
Abenamar Ramirez
Ambar Camila Ramirez Melendez
Jasmin Ramirez Valentin
Guadalupe Ramos Ramirez
Jenean Randall
Christian Raymon
Cade Reeves
Norman Rehm
Micaiah Rishel
Isela Ritter
Olivia Robbins
Jessica Roberts
Cloey Rodriguez
Mackenzie Rolf
Ken Ruddiman
Sonali Salgado
Paty Salinas
Casandra Sanchez Soriano
Teagan Sanders
Makaila Sands
Palwinder Sangha
Belen Santiago Hernandez
Edith Santoyo Gutierrez
Carley Schlag
Claire Schreiner
Alena Schultz
Wyatt Sexton
Rhys Singrin
Morgan Smith
Katie Snyder
Delaina Soboloski
Jennifer Stacy
Skylar Stangeland
Avery Stanley
Isaac Stearns
Lesly Tenorio Marquez
Augustine Terrones
Hailey Thompson
Hannah Thompson
Simon Thompson
Trevor Thomson
Hailey Toornstra
Ayleen Torres Ibarra
Devin Torrez
Stevie Trapero
Joelle Upshur
Daniela Vallejo
Kay Vasquez
Taylor Viegas
Emily Villanueva
Gianni Villanueva
Daniel Wallior
Josh Weiss
Justin Wells
Jasmine Wetter
Megan Whitney
Marina Williams
Seth Williamson
Hunter Winger
Victoria Winkler
Bella Wunderlich
Demetrius Yehnert
Anna Young
Peyton Young
Julian Zeigler
Geneva Zobrist

Sandy
Andrea Asmar
Haylee Lutz
McKenna Rattray
Kelsey Wallace

Scappoose
Grace Negelspach
Lily Polkowski
Abby Schrunk

Scio
Larenda Bennett
Marisa Bradley
Gillian Heskew
Luke Jones
David Silbernagel

Scotts Mills
Sophie Borgstahl

Seaside
Liv Mayhugh
Kyle Miller
Chase Swearingen
Desirae Williams

Shedd
Hannah Robb

Sheridan
Michael Laudahl
Kaysha Nice
Shelbie Reddick

Sherwood
Ella Bintoro
Hailey Blue
Jandika Borden
Aidan Brouddus
Casey Downing
Maddux Gillett
Logan Panter
Abigail Swartz

Shortline
Tyran Johnson

Silverton
James Albrich
Luz Aldrete
Adam Barnett
Lillian Eberle
Sophia Harrison
Anne Hurley
Drew Montgomery
Ammon Saboe
Ashlea Smallwood
Donna Wilson

South Beach
Michelle Cottrell

Springfield
Brayden Allen
Kyle Babcock
Hannah Barr
Cassidy Burns
Tamerra Cervantes Carlos
Paige Gault
Aubrie Hogervorst
Kylie Jones
Wyatt King
Dawson Muggy
Aaron Neiwert
Mandy Reid
Rhylie Sevits
Christian Velasco
Lilly Vogt
Ally Warner

St. Helens
Sarah Bartocci
Nick Beyer
Rachel Freitag
Savannah Manning
Lucia Martin
Graham McCallum
Annabelle Robitz
Margaret Wheeldon

Stayton
Nolan Cramer
Kaelyn Hill
Zachary Holloway
Robin Jackson
Kaley Larsen
Charles Moody
Richard Music
Destiney Tanner

Sublimity
Elias Stuckart
Peyton Stuckart

Sutherlin
Candace Hastings
Ashley Radmer
Kirstyn Thomas
Libby Whited

Sweet Home
Natalia Hartman
Bailee Hartsook
Sky Hilton
Zoe James
Devyn Linder-Adams
Aiden Tyler
Myles Williams

Swisshome
Jordan Simington

Talent
Jordan Kemper

Tangent
Faith DeVyldere
Sarah DeVyldere

The Dalles
Gheraldy Bobadilla-Cruz
Justin Conklin
Vicci Cruz
Diego Elias

Tidewater
Dani Gainer

Tigard
Karina Barron
Adrianna Cardenas
Abbigal Elliott
Abigail Fisher
Shawn Hui
Suzy Kelchner Lee
Molly Livingston
Claire McCann
Corey Parker
Jocelyn Paulus
Jesus Rodriguez Sandoval
Eden Rygh
Esvin Sanchez
Forest Schostalo

Tillamook
Logan McKibbin
Lillian Prince

Toledo
Daryn Heim
Hannah Smith

Troutdale
Hannah Burk
Piper Corbin
Anthony Dickson
Olivia Macdonald
Caiden Madzelan

Tualatin
Jessica Atkins
Wilmer Diaz
Lauren Divine
Karen Gonzalez De Niz
Taylor Rudisill
Kayla Smith
Bianca Stidd

Turner
Abdullatif Al-Abdulrazzaq
Russell Beitzel
Melissa Braun
Molly Martinka
Quintan Meinung
Sarah Phillips

Tygh Valley
Garrett Olson

Vale
Erika Mcbride

Vernonia
Jessica Butcher

Waldport
Abigail Krupar
Oceanna Lambert
Emma Spangrud

Warren
Manda Oliver

Warrenton
Mark Warren

Welches
Malia Vican

West Linn
Alex Bernasconi
Koffi Kouame
Aidyn Reed

White City
Rids Pritikin

Willamina
Andrea Capellino
Kailey Yoder

Wilsonville
Therese Mccabe
Lindy Phillips

Winston
Rachel Johnson
Cora Wanamaker

Woodburn
Miriam Barragan
Esther Bautista
Jaquelyn Contreras
Gabriel Diaz Rivera
Karen Elena Aguilar
Isaak Flores
Erasmo Giron Cortes
Shabryna Herrera
Caleb Lenhardt
Karina Leon
Nyla Medrano
Adan Ortiz Alvarez
Gabriel Pelayo
Alliyah Ramirez
Litzy Vasquez Gutierrez

Yamhill
Kade Klienstuber

Yoncalla
Cameron Benzel
Students from states other than Oregon

Alaska
Kelly Bowen
Melly Burger
Gage Carter
Hailey Colgin
Squeaks Ferguson
Cedric Gatter
Taylor Helem
Clay Johnson
Aidan King
Henry Michener
Kellianna Mikawa
Stephanie Stoltenberg
Daniela Witt

Arkansas
Kyla Aitaro

Arizona
Finley Buman
Olivia Duncan
Caitlin Heldt
Nathan Hurtado
Mykennah Irvin
Jalen Johnson
Morgan Pemberton
Aubree Reese
Juan Suarez Amador
Maliyah Thompson

California
Mason Brown
Paris Burke
Aubrey Coleman
Kris Cook
Skylar Crossland
Cole Dias
Nemo Dieterich
Makaylah Fiedler
Kijjon Foots
Jason Gallant
Elijasah Green
Aidan Hare
Mackenzie Henderson
Jeriah Jackson
Thomas Johnson
Justin Johnson
Chris Jones
Raeanne Jones
Grace Kearney
Jermaine Land
Lindie Larson
Ruth Matavao
Isaias Mireles
Tyler Mohler
Abby Money
Breeon Moreno
Qiant Myers
Ryan Naugle
Sarah Nelson
Mayumi Nomura
Aiden Nykoluk
Laney O’Neil
Crystal Robertson
Viviana Romero
Lauren Rose
Carli Rosenquist
Samantha Sanders
April Sawyer
Ashley Seeler
Kairo Shahin
Sierra Sobota
Logan South
Connor Spellman
Arianna Valenzuela
Dio Watson

Colorado
Erica Guddat
Chase Nelson
Sara Rotar
Oliver Skains
Toby Winkler

Hawaii
Christopher Borer
Lexi Carlos
Aulani Casco-De Leon
Seth Duggan
Ana-Malia Fernandez
Korri-Lyn Fernandez
Kili Helm
Taryn Ho
Bailey Keator
Kayla Kepa
Destiny-celyse Lopez
Ava Makanui
Nicklas Matsumoto
Jacylin Nakamura
Emeli Rubel
Zayla Sismar-Evangelista
Alyna Slayter
Brianna Tadaki
Peyton Todd
Lacey Wakano
Kayla Yamashita
Samantha Yim

Idaho
Penny-Lew Barnett
Hope-Marie Bodak
Solomon Hanselman
Brooklyn Schneidt
Delaney Sheltra
Carolyn Turpen
Austin Wilkes

Illinois
Kayleigh Mcreynolds

Massachusetts
Maeve Taylor

Minnesota
Josie Lavato

Montana
Dylan Chalmers
Molly Gale
Jessica Morgan
Sophia Pierce
Jenna Wagner

Nevada
Andrew Carrillo
Antonio Macias
Jesus Macias
Trey Wilmot
Mackenzie Wilson
Alexis Wright

Ohio
Keith Eldridge
Taylor Litke

Texas
Bobby Barnaby Bryce
Sarah Costilow

Utah
Jodi Noyes

Washington
Lillian Axelson
Abigail Baker
Allison Beavers
Tirzah Bessey
Sophia Blair
Ashlie Bodeau
Josie Cole
Kenzie Collison
Jordyn Conrad
Michelle Cramer
Savannah Crithfield
Sam Darby
Camille Darland
Anthony Delgado
Kendall Doern
Alexander David Driesner
Addie Floyd
Sophie Franklin
Cj Hawker
Makenna Helseth
Evelyn Hooper
Ashley Hulse
Tyran Johnson
Olivia Johnsrud
Elizabeth Lacey
Chester March
Payton Martinson
Jonathan McAtee
Katelyn McGough
JD McShane
Dylan Meader
Amelia Merritt
Kaylee Moore
Paige Murphy
Andre Northrup
Preston Noyes
Emily Olsen
Elizabeth Parker
Kyle Parkman
Katelyn Peterson
Reese Prater
Ali Purdue
Katrina Renault
Maximus Sing
Mimi Swetish
Kady Taylor
Karly Tiedeman
Daron Ulrich
Zach Valdez
Dylan Van Horn
Amrit Virk
Josiah Wattnem
Meili Wolf
Macee Woods
Claire Worthy
Victoria Zimmerman

Wyoming
Ariah Waller

International Students

Ecuador
Andrea Jacho Betun

Guam
Keira Brewster

Kenya
Bryan Muyundo

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

Nepal
Samrid Aryal

Saudi Arabia
Mohammed Alaqlan
Hussain Alhashim
Faisal Dhawahi D Almutairi
Mohammed Alsalem

 

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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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Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University and Chemeketa Community College recently established a streamlined path for students enrolled in Chemeketa’s Bachelor of Applied Science program to further their education and career prospects through access to additional academic resources and graduate coursework at Western.

Starting August 1, 2024, students enrolled in Chemeketa’s Bachelor of Applied Science program with a GPA of 3.25 or higher will be eligible to apply for non-degree undergraduate status at Western. Once admitted, these students will have the unique opportunity to enroll in up to 15 credits of graduate coursework toward Western’s Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership program during their final year as undergraduates.

One of the key advantages of this partnership is the ability for students enrolled in the Bachelor of Applied Science program to apply graduate credits towards the requirements of both their bachelor’s degrees and reserve them for the commencement of their master’s degree studies. This integrated approach maximizes the efficiency of their academic journey and ensures a seamless transition into graduate-level studies.

“This partnership exemplifies our commitment to promoting student success and facilitating academic excellence,” said Amber Deets, director of Graduate Studies. “By providing students with enhanced opportunities for growth and development, we empower them to become future leaders in their respective fields.”

“This work is the result of extensive collaborative efforts between faculty members from both Western Oregon University and Chemeketa Community College. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Chemeketa for their invaluable collaboration and support in bringing this initiative to fruition,” said Western’s Provost Jose Coll. “Together, we eagerly anticipate the positive impact this partnership will have on nurturing the academic aspirations of our students and fostering a vibrant community of lifelong learners.”

“This valuable collaboration gives our students an opportunity for a seamless pathway from a Career and Technical Education degree to a master’s degree,” said Chemeketa Community College’s Chief Workforce Innovation and Community Success Officer Holly Nelson.

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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’s Foundation announces three new board members: Brenda Rocio Martinez, Jordan Carpenter, and Miranda Garrison ‘09.

Brenda Rocio Martinez is a first-generation student from Woodburn and currently serves as the Associated Students of Western Oregon University president. She is majoring in public policy and administration and minoring in communications and business. 

Jordan Carpenter currently serves as the Branch Manager at the Oregon State Credit Union in Monmouth. Carpenter has worked in banking for the last 10 years, starting as a teller, working his way up to Assistant Manager, and then Branch Manager in 2021. 

Miranda Garrison ‘09 started at Arena Sports Bar in Independence as Bar Manager in 2003, and after a lot of hard work, dedication, and partnership, she and her business partner purchased the bar in 2014. Garrison is also the co-owner of Rookies Sports Bar in Monmouth. 

Cori Frauendiener ‘67 was recognized as emeritus trustee, after serving on the WOU Foundation board for the last 18 years. She served two terms as Chair and two terms as Secretary. Frauendiener retired from her role as Director of Education Partnerships at Maps Credit Union in 2019, and through her work and community service was honored as the Oregon Business Person of the Year in 2005.

“We are excited to recognize Cori as trustee emeritus for her decades of unwavering service to Western,” shares Katie Wojke, vice president of Advancement and executive director of the WOU Foundation. “Jordan and Miranda have been volunteering with and supporting Western for a number of years, and we are grateful for their knowledgeable leadership as they join the WOU Foundation board and give back to Western in another capacity. As ASWOU president, Brenda will provide an important student voice to the work of the WOU Foundation and Advancement office.”

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Image of Brenda Rocio Martinez

Image of Jordan Carpenter

Image of Miranda Garrison

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 Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy Ronnie Taylor recently released a music album, That One Black Kid, under the name Dr. PDX.The album is autobiographical and includes music chronicling his decision to become a licensed Occupational Therapist–and how he came to teach the subject to others.

Taylor has been a musician since his teens and this album shares his remarkable journey from high school expulsion to college professor. During his junior year of high school, Taylor was kicked out of school and could not graduate. He eventually became an EMT and subsequently became a paramedic working in Massachusetts and Washington D.C. Later he went back to school at a community college before transferring to George Washington University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. He was then admitted to the Occupational Therapy doctorate program at Pacific University, graduating in 2019. Taylor specializes in hand therapy as an Occupational Therapist and last year, he joined the faculty at Western Oregon University as an assistant professor. He will teach the inaugural cohort of the Occupational Therapy doctorate program this fall.

Taylor says that during the pandemic, he found himself helping his kids with their school work at home during the day, and after failing to teach his daughter long division, he pivoted to teach them how to write songs and create music. After watching the movie Hamilton, his daughter Zadie asked if he could write the best hip-hop album of all time. Taylor replied, “I don’t know if I can do that, but I can write the best album I’ve ever written.” Taylor has published two prior albums Lazarus and Life, Love, Epic under the stage name Laz, and he says that his latest release is his best album to date.

Taylor shares that he wants to leave a legacy of his lived experience for his children and grandchildren, as a record of how his life played out from his perspective through this album. 

“I’m excited to begin teaching students this fall as well as sharing my own story through my new album,” says Taylor. “I want to show students–and others that even if they have a challenging start to life it is possible to reach your dreams and make a good life for yourself and your family.”

Taylor has also made many guest appearances, and performances, and is available as a guest speaker. Find him on X @taylor_ronald.

Learn more about Western’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program.

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About Western Oregon University

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

Pictured from left to right: Pamala Warren-Chase, SMCF Administrative Assistant, Camille Mercier, SMCF Board of Trustees, Katie Wojke, Vice President of Advancement, Western Oregon University, Victoria Ernst, SMCF Board of Trustees, Brenda Tuomi, SCMF Board Chair & CTGR Tribal Council Member, Angela Schlappie, SMCF Program Coordinator

Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University’s Center for Equity and Gender Justice–called Abby’s House–received a $50,000 grant from Spirit Mountain Community Fund to help support individuals experiencing food insecurity, survivors of domestic abuse, and sexual assault.

As the only resource center of its kind in Monmouth, Abby’s House services are paramount to making a positive impact on the lives of those who experience food insecurity and domestic violence. Director of Abby’s House Kristen Perry shares, “Since September 2022, Abby’s House has provided 51,321 pounds of food and 5,780 clothing items and demand for their services has grown exponentially. This grant will ensure that individuals requiring basic needs and survivorship resources continue to receive robust wraparound support and care.” 

“The strength of our local partnerships is something we take pride in,” said Spirit Mountain Community Fund Executive Director Angie Sears. “We’re thankful for the opportunity to collaborate with Western Oregon University Foundation and Abby’s House to provide support for wraparound services available to the WOU campus & local community populations in the form of basic needs, survivor support, and prevention & education.”  

The mission of Abby’s House is to provide the campus and greater community with educational opportunities, resources, and referral services designed to promote equity and non-violence. Basic needs support for the Western campus and the broader Monmouth-area community is also a primary focus of Abby’s House, which houses the Stitch Closet and Monmouth’s only food pantry. Abby’s House embraces 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 to their well-being.

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

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

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

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

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

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About Western Oregon University

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

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University highlights the accomplishments of alum Jenifer Pardy ‘22, a brigadier general in the Oregon National Guard. Pardy received her master’s degree in organizational leadership from Western.

During her time in the military, she has received specific education in military professional education and development. A master’s degree in organizational leadership was the ideal complementary education to her career. 

Pardy is currently the director of the joint staff for the Oregon National Guard. Working in a large organization and getting her graduate degree was the perfect fit to give her the tools and knowledge needed to help move the organization forward.

“In this role, I have the opportunity to represent our organization in the community and to other state partners. We have a state program where we’re partnered with both Bangladesh and Vietnam and we do military-to-military training engagements.” shared Pardy. 

Pardy emphasizes the importance of time management. Pardy worked full-time throughout graduate school and believes that as a leader, it’s important to be a continuous learner. She adds that she’s always leaned into new opportunities, another reason she has been successful in her career. 

Learn more about Jenifer Pardy’s story 

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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.