Western Oregon University’s Newsletter: October 1, 2024
The campus came alive yesterday as the fall semester kicked off. Students, both new and returning, filled the grounds with excitement. This vibrant energy was heightened by the successful Destination Western orientation program that concluded last week, with nearly 150 participants. This initiative plays a crucial role in welcoming many new students and helping them connect with campus life. As the new term begins, there’s a shared sense of anticipation for the experiences and growth opportunities that lie ahead.
Pictured: Destination Western student participants Ana-Malia Fernandez and Amari Hendrix.
A Message from President Peters
Dear Community:
The air is buzzing with excitement as we kicked off the fall term yesterday. It’s wonderful to see students back on campus, filling it with energy and enthusiasm.
Last week, I had the pleasure of witnessing the excitement of the Destination Western program and meeting students (and their families/friends) as they moved into the residence halls. This marks a new chapter in the lives of our newest Wolves, and I am thrilled to welcome them to our community. And it’s always great to see all the returning wolves too!
Speaking of exciting events, I had a fantastic time last week at the launch of our first WOU beer, Wolf Tracks Ale at Parallel 45 Brewing. It was great to see everyone come together to celebrate this new brew, and I’m proud that a portion of the proceeds will go towards supporting our football program. We are grateful for this partnership with Parallel 45 Brewing. Stop by and give it a try.
Looking ahead, I am filled with anticipation for this academic year. Our new Student Success Center is set to be completed by the end of the year. This state-of-the-art facility will house our student services in one central location, making it easier than ever for our students to access the support they need to thrive.
Let’s embrace this exciting time together. We have so much to look forward to!
We. Are. Wolves!
Pictured: Jesse Peters; president at WOU with students in the Destination Western program.
News
A new brew supporting WOU football program launches at Parallel 45 Brewing
Western Oregon University Foundation in partnership with Parallel 45 Brewing launched a new WOU beer, Wolf Tracks Ale last Friday. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this seasonal fresh hops craft beer will support the WOU football program, helping to foster community spirit and support local student-athletes.
Western Oregon University Board of Trustees welcomes seven new trustees
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.
Four generations of WOU alumni: A legacy of tradition and pride
Alumnus Galen B. Nielsen ‘66 fostered a legacy of education and service at Western that spans four generations of his family. After earning his mathematics degree, Nielsen taught at Western and spent 15 years working with the Saudi Arabian Coast Guard, while his daughters and grandchild followed in his footsteps at the university.
Announcing the 2024-2025 Smith Fine Arts Series
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 this month at Western’s Rice Auditorium. From mariachi to the music of Wes Anderson films–and a little bit of everything in between–the 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.
WOU Foundation releases annual report
The Western Oregon University Foundation released its annual report for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. The report includes total contributions to the Foundation, and recent budgetary year results on Endowment, Scholarships, and Competitive Grants.
Homecoming Events
October 25:
Wolves on the Green Golf Tournament: Create your team name and get ready to play golf during the annual Wolves on the Green. This fundraiser benefits WOU Athletics. Location: Illahe Hills Country Club at 8:30 a.m. Sign up.
Earth & Environmental Sciences Community Lecture, Student Showcase & Alumni Gathering. Natural Sciences Building. 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Alumni Awards & Hall of Fame Induction Dinner. Pacific Room. 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. $20 per person. Email alumni@wou.edu to RSVP. Deadline is 10/18.
Class v. Class Dodgeball Tournament. Intramural Field. 6 p.m.
Homecoming Bonfire. Field by Public Safety. 8:30 p.m.
October 26:
Student Leadership Reunion. Pacific Room 10 a.m. to noon. For all current and past student leaders. Refreshments will be served.
Alumni Saturday Market. Campus parking lot F. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Live music by Tuesday String Band, 20+ vendors, and yard games.
Football Alumni Reunion. McArthur Field South Gate. 11 a.m. WOU v. Texas A&M Kingsville. Free entry to the game, special seating & 1 free drink. New WOU beer by Xicha Brewing.
Softball Slow Pitch Alumni Game. Softball Field. 10 a.m. Email alumni@wou.edu to play.
Rugby Game. Intramural Field. 1 p.m. WOU v. Washington State. 1 free drink token.
Library Open House & Wolfie Costume Exhibit. Hamersly Library Lobby. 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Alumni Volleyball Game. New PE Building. 6 p.m. WOU v. University of Alaska Fairbanks. Free entry to the game and reception for Volleyball alumni to connect.
Register to attend! All events are family-friendly.
Upcoming Events & Notable Dates
October 11: Smith Fine Arts Series: Lucia Micarelli & Leo Amuedo. 7:30 p.m. Rice Auditorium. Get tickets.
October 25 – 26: Homecoming: SEE ABOVE FOR DETAILS. Register to attend events.
October 26: Homecoming Football Game v. Texas A&M Kingsville. 1 p.m.
November 19 – 20: Board of Trustees Meeting. Learn more.
December 6: Holiday Tree Lighting & Making Spirits Bright. More info coming soon.
December 7: Smith Fine Arts Series: Grupo Bella. 7:30 p.m. Rice Auditorium. Get tickets.
More News
Join the Emeritus Society
The Emeritus Society is a group of friends of WOU who enjoy learning new things and exploring the community. Benefits of membership include monthly meetings with interesting topics and engaging presenters, field trips, events, Emeritus Society newsletter, sports, performing arts schedules, and supporting WOU students through scholarships.
Western Oregon University. Where YOU Belong!
Western Oregon University
345 Monmouth Ave. Monmouth OR, 97361
wou.edu
