Introduction
Welcome to Western Oregon University, a place of learning, discovery and exploration! Located in the heart of the Willamette Valley in Monmouth, Oregon, Western Oregon University has been providing students with a quality education since 1856. From its humble beginnings as a small teacher-training school, WOU has grown into a comprehensive university that offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. But there’s more to WOU than just academics. Here are some fun facts about Western Oregon University that you may not know.
History of Western Oregon University
Western Oregon University was founded in 1856 as the Oregon State Normal School, the first public institution of higher education in the state of Oregon. The school was established to train teachers for the state’s growing population of children. The name of the school was changed to Western Oregon State College in 1969, and then to Western Oregon University in 1997.
In its early years, the school was located in downtown Monmouth, but in 1929, the school moved to its current location on the edge of town. The campus has grown significantly over the years, and now includes more than 60 buildings, including residence halls, academic buildings, athletic facilities, and more.
Notable Alumni
Western Oregon University has produced a number of notable alumni over the years, including two governors and a US Senator. Former Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski and former Oregon Governor Barbara Roberts are both WOU alumni, as is former US Senator Mark Hatfield. In addition, WOU has produced a number of successful business executives, including former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer and former Intel CEO Paul Otellini.
Campus Life
Western Oregon University is home to a vibrant campus life, with more than 200 student clubs and organizations, including fraternities and sororities, academic clubs, and social clubs. WOU also offers a variety of intramural sports, including basketball, volleyball, and soccer.
The school also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, theatrical performances, and art exhibitions. In addition, WOU has a vibrant student government, which organizes events and activities for students throughout the year.
Student Support Services
Western Oregon University is committed to helping its students succeed both in and out of the classroom. The school offers a variety of student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, health and wellness services, and more.
The school also offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. In addition, WOU has a variety of student housing options, including residence halls, apartments, and more.
Athletics
Western Oregon University is home to a variety of NCAA Division II athletic teams, including men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, and track and field. The school also has a successful football team, which has won two conference championships in the past decade.
The school also offers a variety of intramural sports, including basketball, volleyball, and soccer. In addition, WOU has a vibrant student government, which organizes events and activities for students throughout the year.
Academics
Western Oregon University offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including business, education, engineering, health sciences, and more. The school also offers a variety of online degree programs, allowing students to complete their degree from anywhere in the world.
In addition, the school offers a variety of special programs, such as the Honors Program and the Global Education Program. The Honors Program offers students the opportunity to take specialized classes and complete a research project, while the Global Education Program allows students to study abroad and gain international experience.
Conclusion
Western Oregon University is a great place to get an education and have some fun. From its rich history to its vibrant campus life, WOU has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quality education, a chance to explore the world, or just a fun place to hang out, WOU has it all.