WOU Magazine Spring 2011
From the president
Dear alumni and friends of WOU,
In this issue of the WOU Magazine, you will once again see evidence of Western Oregon University’s remarkable momentum – from the opening of the Health and Wellness Center this spring, to prestigious award recognitions and achievements of our students, faculty, and staff. This momentum has brought significant activity to an already busy spring season.
As I reflect on the past several years at WOU, I am astonished by how much our university has grown, the incredible accomplishments our students have earned, and the important work being done by our faculty and staff. I truly love this institution and am proud of what it has become. And of how it continues to thrive.
If you’ve been to campus recently, you’ve likely noticed that the landscape has changed, especially if it’s been a while. Although Western Oregon University may look different and a bit bigger than it used to, we’re still a university with the same values and traditions that we’ve all embraced.
The 2010-11 academic year has been monumental for our university. We opened Ackerman Hall last fall, the new sustainable residence hall that was designed and constructed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) platinum certification. March also saw the opening of the Health and Wellness Center, a facility that has earned superb feedback from campus and the community. Students, faculty and staff can be seen at all hours of the day using the workout facilities, classrooms, rock climbing wall or the remodeled Wolverton Memorial Pool.
This fall we will welcome former President of Mexico Vicente Fox. His visit takes place during our annual homecoming celebration in October. Specific details on that event will come this summer during our annual Honor Roll of Donors issue. In light of all the changes and successes WOU has enjoyed this past year, we’d like to consider one more change as well – the naming of our university magazine. I’d like to encourage you, as part of our alumni family, to consider sending in a submission to the naming contest for this magazine (see the inside back cover for details). I look forward to learning of the winning submission.
With pride,
John P. Minahan President, Western Oregon University