Written by Maureen Brakke

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University officially joined the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges (COPLAC) this month after a rigorous application process. COPLAC advances the aims of its member institutions and drives awareness of the value of high-quality, public liberal arts education in a student-centered, residential environment. Western is the only public university in Oregon to hold membership currently. 

Established in 1987 and now consisting of 30+ colleges and universities in 28 states and 1 Canadian province, COPLAC represents a distinguished sector in higher education. Some campuses have received designation from state legislatures or public university systems as the state’s public liberal arts college or the public honors college for the liberal arts. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Western Oregon University to COPLAC. It was clear from our site visit interactions with members of the WOU campus community, the materials submitted as part of the application process, as well as your leaders’ engagement with members of the consortium, that WOU’s institutional values and commitment to a 21st-century liberal arts education perfectly align with COPLAC’s,” said COPLAC President Tuajuanda C. Jordan. “We look forward to working in partnership with WOU to enhance the accessible liberal arts educational experience consortial members provide to students across the U.S.”

Executive Director of COPLAC Cole Woodcox agrees with Jordan’s assessment of Western’s commitment to its role as a welcoming, supportive undergraduate-serving institution. Woodcox shares, “We believe WOU will contribute substantially to the COPLAC community and will particularly strengthen the network of public liberal arts institutions in the Western region. We look forward to working with WOU–together we can be better universities with one another.”

“Becoming a member of the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges underscores our commitment to academic excellence and innovation,” said Western Oregon University President Jesse Peters. “This affiliation offers opportunities for collaboration, access to shared resources, and the exchange of best practices. It enhances our ability to prepare students for successful careers and engaged citizenship, reaffirming our dedication to excellence in liberal arts education.”

Prospective membership criteria include university commitment to the mission and values of COPLAC and to collaborative work that supports the public sector of higher education, representing access, affordability, and community engagement while providing students with a holistic and integrative liberal arts and sciences undergraduate experience that prepares students for lifelong learning and civic engagement in a democratic society. See the complete list of criteria.

About COPLAC

COPLAC serves both external and internal constituencies. It communicates to state and federal policymakers the vital importance and benefits of providing students with comprehensive public higher education in the liberal arts and sciences. It collaborates with major national higher education organizations like the Association of American Colleges and Universities to advance the aims of liberal learning in a global society. The COPLAC office is located on the campus of the University of North Carolina Asheville. The staff works actively with member institutions to improve the quality of liberal arts and sciences education on member campuses.

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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 celebrates the winners of the 9th annual Peter Sears Poetry Prize for undergraduate students. 

“It’s become a great literary tradition at Western,” says Henry Hughes Ph.D., who administers the prize.  “It launches young writers, some of whom have gone on to publish their poems in professional magazines and receive national recognition.”

First prize was awarded to  Sophie Borgstahl, a junior in Honors English,  for “Tens Days After Treatment,” second prize to a graduating senior in English, Julian Zeigler, for “4 AM,” and third prize to Lucas Montpart, a junior in Fine Arts,  for “Celebrating My 21st Birthday with My Dead Brothers.” 

The winners read their work at the Academic Excellence Showcase on May 30. The competition received over 50 poems with 10 selected for review by the final judge, Ingrid Wendt, a distinguished poet and educator. 

Professor Wendt said Borgstahl’s winning poem, “with its quiet, understated, deft narrative and perfectly realized tenderness . . . took my breath away.”

This prize honors the memory of Oregon Poet Laureate and friend to Western, Peter Sears (1937-2017). 

Learn more about the Peters Sears Poetry Prize 

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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: These individuals were recognized for 15 years of service: Ashley Schaumburg, Shawn Sellers, Michael Rose, Jenna Otto, Anna Mahony, Michael Freeman, President Peters, Julie Grammer, and Carmen Caceda.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University recently honored staff and faculty at the annual recognition ceremony and reception for their outstanding leadership, tenure achievements, promotions, and Emeritus status. Staff and faculty were also recognized for their involvement in securing grants and for years of service at the university.  Below are the names of the award and promotion recipients. View the grants and years of service recognition list.

Leadership Awards

ASWOU President
Hunter Hall

Faculty Senate President
Dr. Stephen Scheck, Biology

Outgoing Staff Senate President
Adrian Trujillo, Student Success and Advising

Mario & Alma Pastega Staff Excellence
LouAnn Vickers, The President’s Office

Mario & Alma Pastega: Excellence in Scholarship & Creativity
Dr. Patricia Goldsworthy-Bishop, History

Mario & Alma Pastega: Excellence in Teaching
Dr. Brooke Nott, Psychological Sciences

Mario & Alma Pastega: Excellence in Service
Dr. Earlene Camarillo, Politics, Policy, and Administration

Faculty Advisor of the Year
Dr. Kevin Walczyk, Music

Staff Advisor of the Year
Andres Hernandez-Galvan, Student Enrichment Program

Tenure & Promotion

Promoted to Associate Professor & Awarded Tenure
Dr. Shari Hopkins, Education & Leadership

Promoted to Professor
Dr. Dana Schowalter, Communication
Dr. Joshua Schulze, Education & Leadership
Dr. Tad Shannon, Computer Science
Daniel Tankersly, Creative Arts
Dr.  Emily Vala-Haynes, Health & Exercise Science

Awarded Tenure
Chelle Batchelor, Library & Academic Innovation
Dr. Shaun Hansen, Business/Economics

Emeritus Awardees:

Dean Braa, Sociology
Laurie Burton, Mathematics
George Cabrera, Education & Leadership
David Hargreaves, English Studies
Mark Henkels, Politics, Policy & Administration
John Leadley, Business & Economics
Frank Nevius, Communication
Cornelia Paraskevas, English Studies
Adele Schepige, Education & Leadership

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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: Isabella Morrill and Abigail Fisher at the Wolf Awards. Emily Sielen and Ana Clark not pictured.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University announces the student recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Graduate Undergraduate Awards. The students will be recognized at the commencement ceremony on June 15, with the opportunity to give a short speech. 

Below are the 2024 Outstanding Graduating Undergraduate Award Recipients: 

Isabella Morrill, from Warrenton, Ore., completed her Bachelor of Arts in Music with a concentration in Music Composition one term early in Winter 2024. As a distinguished musician and composer, she’s received honors such as winning the 2022 National Band Association’s Merrill/Jones Young Band Composition Contest, where she made history as the first undergraduate composer to win this prestigious award.

Abigail Fisher from Tigard, Ore., is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Education with a concentration in Early Childhood/Elementary Education and a Bachelor of Science in Interpreting Studies Theory with a concentration in American Sign Language.

Emily Sielen, who resides in Bellingham, Wash., is graduating with a Master of Arts in Interpreting Studies. With 15 years of experience as a professional Spanish-English healthcare interpreter, Sielen recognized the need for improvement in how interpreters are trained and supported within the field. Western’s graduate program in interpreting studies, which emphasizes reflective practice through observation, application, analysis, and supervision, was exactly what she was seeking.

Ana Clark, from Clavillo, Aguascalientes, Mexico is the 2024 OHSU Golden Lamp Award recipient. She chose to attend the Oregon Health & Science University School of Nursing because of  its mission and vision, appreciating the commitment to inclusion and the creation of opportunities for underrepresented populations.

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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: Hannah Rispler (left) and Randi Lydum (right)

Photography: Eddie Bruning

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University hosted the 38th Annual Wolves Athletic Auction presented by Oregon State Credit Union on Saturday, June 1, 2024. The event drew nearly 300 attendees to the campus of Western Oregon University, and dozens more to the online auction held the week prior. Thanks to generous donors, sponsors, bidders, and attendees, Wolves Athletics raised $156,106 across all aspects of the event.

All proceeds from the event support student-athlete scholarships, team equipment, and team travel for Western’s over 440 student-athletes across 14 NCAA Division II sports and cheer. “We are so thankful for the continued support of our donors and pleased to add more people to our pack”, said Randi Lydum, executive director of Intercollegiate Athletics. “A special thank you to our keynote speaker, Samantha Moore, and our emcee for the evening, Hannah Rispler, both WOU athletics alums.” Keynote speaker Samantha “Sam” Moore thanked guests and donors “for continuing to believe in and commit to the transformative power of athletic opportunity at Western Oregon University.” 

The Wolves Athletic Auction was presented by Oregon State Credit Union, back for its 19th year as presenting sponsor. “19 years down and our long-standing relationship still finds ways to grow stronger,” said Jordan Carpenter, branch manager. “We are so proud of this partnership with the university and feel honored to be able to assist these student-athletes as they further their education. We look forward to another 19 years serving WOU and the Monmouth-Independence community.”

Additional auction sponsors include Ferguson Wellman, Arena Sports Bar and Grill, Rookies Sports Tap, Eola Hills, Cornerstone Valley, Miller Nash, Andersen Construction, Petals & Vines, Turner Construction, the Corvallis Clinic, Compass Visual, Parallel 45 Brewing, Walnut Family Dental, Tim’s Automotive, and Vines, Tours, and Cruises. 

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About Western Oregon University Foundation

The Western Oregon University Foundation was founded in 1965 and is the fundraising arm of Western Oregon University. A nonprofit corporation, governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees with IRS 501(c)3 status, the WOU Foundation’s scholarship program includes more than 250 donor-funded scholarships. In addition, the foundation manages nearly 300 funds for academic and student programs. As of 2021, the WOU Foundation has approximately $25 million in assets and a permanent endowment of $16 million.

Pictured: Jasper Beck (left) and Henry Hughes Ph.D. (right)

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University student Jasper Beck, an English major, recently won the prestigious College Undergraduate Poetry Competition sponsored by the National Federation of State Poetry Societies.

“We all knew Jasper was a terrific poet, but winning a major national prize provided serious confirmation of his talent.” shared Henry Hughes, Ph.D., Beck’s English professor.

The contest requires students to submit a manuscript of ten poems, and Beck’s collection, titled “Creator & Destroyer,” was selected as the winner from among 31 submissions from 24 schools in 15 states. NFSPS will publish the collection as a chapbook to be launched at their June convention in Roswell, Georgia. The collection is now available for purchase on Amazon. 

“I’ve always viewed poetry as a personal passion, but this award inspires me toward a professional career as a writer.” shared Beck.

Beck will receive a $500 cash prize, free copies of the chapbook, free registration, and a stipend to attend the June conference to read from his collection. 

In the official April 2024 NFSPS newsletter, Lana Austin, one of the judges, stated, “From the first poem, I fell in love with Creator & Destroyer because I could see, smell, taste, touch, and hear the worlds these poems inhabit that are dripping with luscious verisimilitude. Deft technical precision is evident, yet organically incorporated when considering the chapbook’s sonic splendor.'” 

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About Western Oregon University

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

Max Smoot-Brown, one of the ten WOU students to star in Episode 11.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is featured in season 11 of The College Tour, a groundbreaking series from Emmy-nominated producers Alex Boylan, Lisa Hennessy, and Burton Roberts, now streaming on Amazon Prime Video. 

Hosted by The Amazing Race winner Alex Boylan, The College Tour travels the country telling the story of each college and university through the diverse lens of its students, giving the viewer an intimate portrayal of life on campus. Inspiring and motivating, the show serves as a vehicle to help students across the world connect with higher education, enabling them to make informed decisions about their future without having to travel anywhere!

“I am excited that we now have the opportunity to share our unique story with a nationwide audience through this exceptional episode,” expressed President Jesse Peters. “Western holds a special significance, particularly for first-generation and historically underserved students, and for all those seeking a personalized and empowering education.”

Shining a spotlight on the diverse landscape of today’s colleges, The College Tour offers viewers a comprehensive look at campuses across the country, highlighting the many resources and opportunities that are helping students thrive. The College Tour shows how these institutions are setting students up for success.

“Western Oregon University offers students an extraordinary experience, and we’re so excited to share that on The College Tour,” said Alex Boylan. “For students, choosing which college to attend is a monumental decision, and this episode gives prospective students a first-hand look at what makes this school so special.”

Watch The College Tour episode and individual student video segments on Western’s website.

About: 

The College Tour is a groundbreaking TV series that takes the viewer on an intimate journey through campuses across the country, telling each school’s story through the diverse lens of its students. Hosted by The Amazing Race winner Alex Boylan, The College Tour brings equity to college readiness by providing a platform to access comprehensive and meaningful information regarding higher education anytime and anywhere, free of charge. The College Tour is available on Amazon Prime Video and at www.thecollegetour.com.

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About Western Oregon University

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About Western Oregon University

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

Pictured: Western’s Mariachi Band performing

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

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

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

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About Western Oregon University

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

Written by Maureen Brakke

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

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

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

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About Western Oregon University

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