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MONMOUTH, Ore. – Building upon Western Oregon University’s success in educating bilingual teachers to serve Oregon’s diverse communities, the university has been awarded a $2 million Workforce Ready Grant by the Oregon Legislature, administered by The Higher Education Coordinating Commission to help train more counselors and behavioral and mental health professionals through June 2026.
Similar to the shortages of teachers and medical providers, there is a severe lack of counselors and behavioral health professionals who can work with clients in both Spanish and English. The program will recruit bilingual undergraduate students, provide them with tuition assistance, and offer opportunities to work with Polk or Marion County in an earn-to-learn setting. Students placed with the counties will work part-time, gaining valuable experience and supervised clinical hours while addressing the acute shortage of counselors in the community.
The program will also support students in Chemeketa Community College’s Behavioral Health program, Western’s Master of Science in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling program, and the Occupational Therapy Doctorate program. The community-based organization Interface Network will assist in recruiting students and helping them overcome barriers that affect their ability to earn their degrees, such as lack of childcare, transportation, and technology.
"As a clinician for 25 years working alongside our Latino community members and other service providers, I know firsthand the benefit of working with clients in their preferred language,” said Carlos Texidor Maldonado, Ph.D., assistant professor in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling at Western. “It is thrilling that Oregon, particularly Western Oregon University, is purposefully training more bilingual counselors and behavioral health professionals to meet the increasing needs of our communities."
The program launches in early 2025 and is currently recruiting students. Learn more about the 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.
MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is committed to supporting veterans as they pursue their educational and career goals. Every year, events and activities celebrate and honor veterans during Veterans Week.
This year, Veterans Week is from November 8 through November 16, and the Veterans Resouce Center is hosting a variety of events with support from other campus organizations. Events throughout the week include a Veterans of Foreign Wars uniform showcase in the Hamersly Library, warrior yoga for students and staff, a veterans breakfast, and the annual Ruck N’ Run 5k.
“We dedicate a week each year to our veterans to create a culture of connectedness across the campus community to promote well-being and success,” shared Director of Veterans Resource Center, Logan Doerfler. “This is an opportunity for our veterans to be honored and for campus partners to support them.”
The Ruck N’ Run 5k is open to the public. Register today.
Saturday, November 16 at 11:30 a.m. Parking Lot R, outside of the Health & Wellness Center at Western Oregon University.
Learn more about the Veterans Resource Center.
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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 is the first public university in Oregon to join the Tri-Alpha honor society specifically for first-generation college students. Nearly 50 percent of Western’s student body identifies as first-generation, making this membership another way the university supports and elevates first-generation students.
Membership benefits include a lifetime membership, outward recognition of personal accomplishment and an incentive for continued high scholarships, opportunities to connect with other first-generation scholars from all academic disciplines on campus and create a supportive environment for first-generation students. It also provides opportunities for students to mentor younger first-generation students and receive mentoring from more senior students, along with professionals who were the first in their families to attend college.
Dana Nunez-Silva, First Generation coordinator at Western, shares that the university joined Tri-Alpha so first-generation students’ achievements could be recognized and elevated more intentionally. She adds that Tri-Alpha provides an intentional space for students to support each other and feel empowered and capable of achieving their academic goals. “Tri-Alpha will help many first-generation students overcome impostor syndrome, a feeling that is very common to the first-gen experience.” Nunez-Silva will also be the advisor for the Tri-Alpha chapter at Western and shares that she is honored and excited to recruit students to join the honor society and begin establishing a new tradition at Western.
About Tri-Alpha:
Alpha Alpha Alpha, or Tri-Alpha, was founded on March 24, 2018, at Moravian College (now Moravian University) in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Over 100 members of the Alpha Chapter were initiated that day, including undergraduate students, faculty, staff, alumni, and honorary members. Following the successful induction, the College took steps to incorporate Alpha Alpha Alpha so that chapters could be started on other campuses across the country. Tri-Alpha exists as a not-for-profit (501(c)3) organization, for the purposes of supporting the activities of the honors society.
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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.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE / November 6, 2024
Western Oregon University and Unitus Credit Union celebrate Bilingual Scholarship recipients
University Marketing and Communications
Maureen Brakke, 503-838-9329
Brittany Kima, 503-838-8163
Unitus Credit Union
Autumn Foster, afoster@unitusccu.com
MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University in partnership with Unitus Credit Union, hosted a reception to celebrate seven Unitus Bilingual Teachers scholarship recipients. In 2022, Unitus Community Credit Union made a $75,000, multi-year commitment to Western Oregon University's Bilingual Teacher Scholars Program to further expand its efforts and fund an additional eight-student cohort. This scholarship aims to foster diversity and inclusivity within the teaching profession.
The following students were recognized as this year’s scholars: Miriam Herrera Hernandez, Maria Guadalupe Salazar, Vanessa Quintero, Alessandra Cervantes Ramirez, Keysel Corea-San Ermeterio, Evelyn Estrada, and Areli Santos Gomez.
“We are excited to celebrate the dedication of our bilingual teachers today. This scholarship not only honors their commitment but also invests in the future of our community,” shares Western’s Dean of the College of Education, Mark Girod, Ph.D. “This partnership with Unitus helps us shape a world where every voice is heard and every student can thrive.”
Unitus Community Credit Union President and CEO, Steven Stapp, addressed the scholars, offering them encouragement as they work toward their goals. "We've been talking about believing in yourself a lot today, you have to have your own belief, your own motivation," said Stapp. "I want you to know that you have many of us that are here supporting you as well. We look forward to following your journeys as you move into the classroom in our local communities."
Nicole Davison León, executive director of the Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber and vice chair of the Unitus Community Credit Union board, delivered the keynote address. Davison León draws on her experience as a first-generation Latina to bring a unique set of perspectives to her roles. Her diverse background offers valuable insights that connect and highlight prominent issues affecting often underserved communities.
Two scholars shared their stories and inspiration for pursuing a career in education. Vanessa Quintero reflected on being a scholarship recipient: “It means so much to me to be a bilingual scholar. It helps me continue my education to be a teacher without having to worry about the financial burden.”
Scholar Keysel Corea-San Ermeterio shares: “I’m currently teaching as a bilingual teacher and I am just so thankful to Western and Unitius for supporting my education and my passion. I’m so happy that I am finally in the classroom and educating the future generation.”
Pictured from LTR: Nicole Davison León, Aimee Berg, Maria Guadalupe Salazar, Vanessa Quintero, Keysel Corea-San Ermeterio, Miriam Herrera Hernandez, and Steven Stapp.
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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.
About Unitus Community Credit Union
At Unitus, we’re dedicated to improving lives in the communities we serve. As a member-owned local credit union, we invest in people by doing the right thing. Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations, we provide support for community groups through volunteerism and financial donations. Our 105,000 members count on us to serve them and their communities; our 300+ employees share that passion for service. Learn about the local impact Unitus makes by visiting unitusccu.com.
MONMOUTH, Ore. –First-generation college students play a pivotal role in shaping the future of their communities, bringing unique perspectives and resilience to their educational journeys. Western Oregon University prides itself on being a first-generation friendly place, with 47 percent of its student body identifying as first-generation college students with tailored services and resources designed to meet their specific needs.
Every year, universities nationwide celebrate First-Generation Student Day on November 8. This year, Western is dedicating an entire week of workshops and activities to highlight the experiences of first-generation students and celebrate their contributions to the campus community, from November 4 through November 8. Themes throughout the week include financial literacy, basic needs, mental health awareness, TRIO programs, finding support systems, and career readiness. On November 8 at 9 a.m., keynote speaker Mohammed Soriana-Bilal, an acclaimed poet, music, and video producer, and currently the associate dean and director of the Office for Inclusion, Belonging, and Intergroup Communication at Stanford University, will conclude the week with an impactful presentation.
“Many first-generation college students hold intersectional identities; whether they come from an underrepresented background or one that is well represented–from all backgrounds, no experience is the same. The commonality is sharing the experience of being the first in our families to do something that has not been done before,” said Dana Nunez Silva, first-generation coordinator. “Taking that initiative is courageous and is oftentimes tied to wanting to make our families proud, break generational cycles, and have a better future. That intrinsic motivation is what I believe is a superpower of first-gen students.” Nunez-Silva also emphasizes that with such a large first-gen population at Western, it is everyone’s responsibility to dedicate specialized support to these students and to recognize their achievements and hard work.
To celebrate the upcoming First-Generation College Student Week, first-generation college students at Western share their current college journey and what being a “first-gen” student means to them. Tamiya Mitchell, a psychology major shares that she understands the struggles and hardships students face when coming to college. “Leaving home and exploring a new place is terrifying for many, but being a first-gen student means facing the unknown head-on.” Cheyanne Ortiz, a social and political science major agrees that "Being a first-generation student means learning how to navigate the challenges of pursuing an academic career and discovering who you want to be in the end."
Criminal justice major Kayla Kepa shares that being a first-gen student means having a path to achieve her dreams while showing her siblings and family that it is possible to break the cycle and create a better future. She adds that she chose to attend Western for its great opportunities in work and education and it feels like home. “Coming from Hawai’i, homesickness is real, but I am ready to face the challenge for the sake of my family, my future, and my dreams.”
Mayra Valencia, an education major, is a great example to her family. She shares that being a first-generation Latina student at Western is very significant to her. She wants to do her part in honoring her parents' and ancestors' sacrifices and thanking those who believe in her. “I want to continue challenging myself and hope to inspire my children and future generations. It's not about being another number but representing, serving others, and preparing to become who I was meant to be. Hispanics and Latinos have and will continue to enrich all facets of American society!”
Western’s new Student Success Center, which stands on the site of the Old Education Building, will officially open in January 2025. Designed with a focus on creating an inclusive and supportive environment, this center will be a one-stop shop for students, particularly first-generation college students. From a math tutoring center, a student advising center, a career center, to a Disability Access Services office, the center will serve as a comprehensive support hub. It will house Western’s two college-level federal TRIO SSS programs, which serve first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities. There will also be a dedicated area for first-generation students called the First-Gen Center, which will provide a welcoming space for students to connect and find community.
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Pictured from LTR: from left to right: Raul Sagrero Ganoa, Cecilia Rodriguez, Liz Alvarez Mendoza, Cheyanne Ortiz, Shanti Rosales, Mayra Valencia, Tamiya Mitchell, Carlos Urenda, and Kayla Kepa.
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 and Clackamas Community College have collaborated on a joint early childhood bilingual pathway partnership that actively supports and recruits Clackamas Community College graduates ready to complete their bachelor’s degree in early childhood education at Western.
Clackamas offers an applied associate degree in early childhood education in Spanish, allowing graduates to seamlessly transfer to Western and earn their bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Thanks to this partnership, Western will provide flexible courses to ensure students receive a comprehensive education in early childhood entirely in bilingual settings. The demand for early educators with Spanish expertise has grown in Oregon, making this collaboration essential in meeting those needs.
A Ford Family Foundation grant has been awarded to Western to support efforts in onboarding bilingual early childhood faculty. The grant will facilitate collaborative work and help revise and plan future bilingual coursework. The first courses in this partnership launched at Western this fall.
“We are humbled by the passion and commitment demonstrated at Clackamas Community College and Western to get this program up and running. We salute the ongoing efforts of Clackamas to offer an associate degree in early childhood completely online and in Spanish,” said Cindy Ryan, Ed.D., associate professor in early childhood and chair of the Division of Education and Leadership. “We are honored to support these students as they come to us to complete their bilingual bachelor’s degree in early childhood studies.”
“Access to education changes the lives not only of our students but of their children, their families, and their communities. Providing an opportunity to pursue coursework in their home language of Spanish and obtain a degree can change the trajectory of the lives of our students. At Clackamas, we are so incredibly grateful to be in partnership with Western Oregon University to collaboratively build this bilingual pathway,” said Dawn Hendricks, Ph.D., department chair of Early Childhood Education, Education, and Human Services at Clackamas Community College.
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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. – The Western Oregon University Alumni Awards recognize outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities and professions. The 2024 Alumni Award recipients are Joanne Fuhrman, Christy Perry, William Wiltse, and Brigadier General Jenifer Pardy.
Joanne Fuhrman is the recipient of the 2024 Alumni Community Service Award for her lifelong commitment to social justice and impact on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As co-founder and CEO of Partnerships in Community Living (PCL), she has dedicated over 40 years to advocating for marginalized individuals and played a crucial role in Oregon's transition from institutional care.
Christy Perry, the former superintendent of the Salem-Keizer School District, is the recipient of the 2024 Alumni Community Service Award for her exceptional leadership and commitment to equity in education. Perry's strategic plan for equitable outcomes and her efforts to expand Career and Technical Education programs have advanced student achievement and fostered inclusivity for underserved communities.
William Wiltse is the recipient of the 2024 Alumni Award for Professional Achievement for his pioneering work combating child exploitation through technology and law enforcement collaboration. As the President of the Child Rescue Coalition, Wiltse developed the Child Protection System, a powerful tool used by law enforcement worldwide to detect and prosecute child predators.
Brigadier General Jenifer Pardy is the recipient of the 2024 Alumni Award of Excellence for her outstanding leadership and service in the Oregon National Guard. As the Director of the Joint Staff, Pardy has provided invaluable guidance and oversight for state and federal missions. Her executive experience and recent mobilization efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfires, and civil unrest in Oregon exemplify her commitment to strengthening partnerships and making a positive impact.
“We are incredibly proud of this year’s alumni award recipients. Their achievements serve as a testament to the values and excellence our institution upholds,” said Raeann Salchenberg, director of Alumni Engagement. Each of them has made a profound impact in their respective fields, embodying the spirit of leadership, innovation, and service that defines our alumni community. We are honored to celebrate their success and grateful for the inspiration they provide to our students and fellow alumni.”
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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.