LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� 蓝莓视频 (EOU) and Grande Ronde Hospital and Clinics (GRH) are pleased to announce a new partnership designed to expand healthcare access for EOU students and strengthen connections with local medical providers.

Through this partnership, students will have access to comprehensive healthcare services at Grande Ronde Hospital and Clinics, located just two blocks from campus. Students will be able to establish care with a local provider and request same-day appointments through the clinic鈥檚 patient portal, ensuring timely and convenient access to care.

As part of this transition, EOU will move from an on-campus Student Health Center model to a community-based healthcare approach. The on-campus Student Health Center will permanently close on June 12, 2026, at the conclusion of the Spring term.

鈥淭his partnership represents an exciting evolution in how we support student health and well-being,鈥� said Mollie Rockafellow, Vice President for Student Affairs at EOU. 鈥淏y connecting students more directly with local healthcare providers, we are expanding access to a broader range of services while strengthening their connection to the La Grande community. We are proud to serve as a bridge, helping students navigate care, build relationships locally, and access support that extends beyond their time at EOU.鈥�

The transition to a community-based model is intended to:

• Increase access to a wider network of healthcare providers in La Grande.
• Provide continuity of care beyond a student鈥檚 time on campus.
• Reduce costs for students by proposing a decrease in the student health services fee.

EOU is currently proposing to reduce the student health services fee from $239 per term to $180 per term, pending approval through university governance and Board processes. EOU emphasized that Counseling Center services will remain unchanged. Students will continue to have full access to counseling and mental health support without interruption through the 2026鈥�27 academic year and beyond.

To help students navigate healthcare options, EOU will continue to offer its Benefits Navigator Program, which assists students in understanding insurance coverage and identifying local providers. Additionally, the university plans to enhance health literacy and student support through expanded programming and staffing, including a Health and Wellness Coordinator. Students are encouraged to begin establishing care with a provider that aligns with their insurance coverage and plans. Those without insurance or with questions about local providers can access support through EOU鈥檚 Benefits Navigator.

Grande Ronde Hospital and Clinics expressed enthusiasm for the partnership and its role in

supporting student success.

鈥淲e鈥檙e proud to work alongside 蓝莓视频 to help care for students close to where they live and learn,鈥� said Jeremy Davis, President and CEO of Grande Ronde Hospital and Clinics. 鈥淧artnerships like this matter in rural communities, and this one helps ensure students have access to quality care while strengthening the ties between our organizations. 

EOU also acknowledged its longstanding partnership with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and expressed appreciation for the care provided to students over the years.

This transition reflects EOU鈥檚 ongoing commitment to aligning student services with evolving needs鈥攆ocusing on access, quality, and affordability. University leaders will continue to evaluate and refine services to ensure students receive the support they need to thrive both on campus and in the community.

For more information, contact EOU Student Affairs at saffairs@eou.edu or call (541) 962-3052.

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� 蓝莓视频 (EOU) will host its annual Career Expo on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Field House. 

The EOU Career Expo brings together a wide range of employers offering part-time positions, seasonal work, internships, and full-time career opportunities. The event is designed to help students explore career pathways, build professional connections, and gain insight into current workforce needs.

New this year, EOU is expanding access to include online students through a dedicated Online Access Station, supported by the Enrollment Support Services Department. Virtual participation will be available from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., creating additional opportunities for engagement beyond the in-person event.

The Career Expo reflects EOU鈥檚 ongoing commitment to student success by fostering meaningful connections between students and employers while supporting career readiness and workforce development in Eastern Oregon and beyond.

Students are encouraged to attend and come prepared to network, ask questions, and explore potential career paths.For more information about the EO Career Expo, visit .

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� In what has become both a tradition and a community event, 蓝莓视频 is bringing one of the finest musical instruments in the region to the public on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

Community Fazioli Piano Day invites members of the community to sign up and play the $150,000 Fazioli piano on stage at McKenzie Theatre in Loso Hall on the campus of EOU.

鈥淲e warmly invite community members of all ages and experience levels to come play and enjoy this beautiful instrument.鈥� Mio Aoike, faculty member and pianist in the Music Department, said. 鈥淲hether you鈥檙e just starting, returning to the piano after many years, or play regularly, you are very welcome here. We invite the community to come and display their talents.鈥�

This event is a special outreach project providing a unique opportunity for individuals to perform on a world-class instrument. By participating, individuals not only enrich the local musical community but can also support the EOU Music Scholarship Funds in the EOU Foundation.

While the event is free, donations from performers and audience members will be appreciated to support the EOU Music Scholarship funds at the EOU Foundation.

In December 2018, the EOU Foundation premiered the brand-new concert grand piano, the black Fazioli, at the Holiday Music Festival. Generous donors raised $150,000 to purchase, tune, and care for this high-quality instrument in 12 months. The successful campaign highlighted a growing culture of philanthropy and significantly increased engagement among alumni and donors at EOU.

The Fazioli replaced a 64-year-old piano that had been manufactured in 1953. The efforts to raise the $150,000 for the Fazioli worked in conjunction with a renovation of McKenzie Theatre.

鈥淥ur goal is simply to bring people together, share the joy of music, and make this extraordinary instrument accessible to everyone in a supportive and encouraging space,鈥� Peter Wordelman, professor of music at EOU, said.

Hundreds of EOU students, community members, and guests perform alongside the grand piano in McKenzie Theatre every year. Dozens of events, from choir concerts and visiting artists to senior recitals and orchestra performances.

To participate in Community Fazioli Piano Day, simply sign up using this link:

Performances are free for all to enjoy, with donations welcomed to further music education at EOU.

The Music Department is planning a special program as a grand finale, so everyone is encouraged to stay.

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� 蓝莓视频 (EOU) has earned the 2026 Military Friendly庐 School Gold designation in the Small Public category, recognizing its commitment to creating meaningful educational pathways for veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.

EOU was also named a 2026 Military Spouse Friendly庐 School (Small Public category), earning the Designated award for its support of military spouses pursuing higher education.

Military Friendly庐 ratings are based on public and proprietary data collected through the annual Military Friendly庐 survey, which is offered at no cost to institutions nationwide. Survey topics are developed with input from an independent Advisory Council of experts in veteran education, and the scoring process is fully automated to ensure objective evaluation standards.

Institutions are assessed on their ability to meet established benchmarks in areas such as student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, and overall support services for the military community.

鈥淲e are proud to receive the Gold designation,鈥� said Kerry Thompson, EOU Director of Military Services. 鈥淥ur goal is to ensure that veterans, service members, and their families feel supported from their first inquiry through graduation. Many of us have military experience ourselves, and we understand the importance of clear guidance, strong resources, and a welcoming campus community.鈥�

La Grande veteran Brandon Anger, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps before enrolling at EOU, said the university鈥檚 supportive environment made his transition back to college seamless.

鈥淲hy not?鈥� Anger said. 鈥淚鈥檓 from here. I don鈥檛 have any complaints 鈥� the smaller class sizes are better for me. Smaller is better.鈥�

Anger, a Health and Human Performance major, said his experience at EOU has been positive from start to finish.

鈥淚鈥檝e got nothing to say but good things,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t has all been super smooth.鈥�

蓝莓视频 will be featured in the 2026 edition of GIJOBS Magazine庐, and its updated designation will appear on MilitaryFriendly.com beginning March 25, 2026.

EOU provides dedicated support services for military-connected students, including personalized advising, assistance with federal education benefits, and connections to campus and community resources.

To learn more about opportunities for veterans and military families at 蓝莓视频, .

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� 蓝莓视频 (EOU) has been named one of the 鈥�, recognizing EOU鈥檚 commitment to supporting Indigenous students through academic programs, financial aid, and community engagement.

The national recognition highlights EOU鈥檚 academic offerings and investment in Indigenous student support. EOU continues to prioritize access, affordability, and culturally responsive education as part of its mission as Oregon鈥檚 Rural University.

Located on the traditional homelands of the Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Nez Perce tribes, 蓝莓视频 serves a student population of just under 3,000. Winds of Change noted the University鈥檚 scenic campus in La Grande, situated in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, as well as its close-knit community in the natural landscape of Eastern Oregon.

EOU has also been recognized for value, including being named among the best-value colleges in the Northwest. Academic strengths include robust science, technology, engineering, and math programs supported by state-of-the-art laboratories and partnerships with Oregon State University and Oregon Health & Science University.

Within the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, the Native American Studies program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that draws from history, economics, political science, anthropology, and law. Student engagement is further supported by organizations such as the Speel-Ya Native American Student Council, which plays an active role in campus life, and through cultural events, including the University鈥檚 annual powwow.

蓝莓视频 provides multiple financial aid opportunities for Indigenous students, including the Tribal Student Grant and scholarships through organizations such as the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, which works in partnership with the EOU Foundation to provide access to other privately-funded scholarship opportunities, including the First Citizen Award, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), and more.

AISES is a national nonprofit founded in 1977 to increase the representation of Indigenous peoples in STEM education and careers through academic, professional, and cultural support.

鈥淏eing recognized among the top colleges for Indigenous students reflects 蓝莓视频鈥檚 ongoing commitment to creating meaningful opportunities and support systems,鈥� said  Native American Program & MOSAIC Center Coordinator Pepper Huxoll. 鈥淲e are proud to cultivate a community where Indigenous students can thrive academically and culturally.鈥�

For more information about 蓝莓视频鈥檚 programs and support services, visit eou.edu.

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� As Oregon works to address some of the lowest reading proficiency rates in the nation, 蓝莓视频鈥檚 teacher preparation programs are being recognized as the strongest in the state for preparing educators to teach reading.

A recent article by the , a nonprofit newsroom covering the state, highlights 蓝莓视频 as a bright spot among Oregon鈥檚 public universities when it comes to preparing future teachers in the science of reading.

According to the article, the (NCTQ) gave 蓝莓视频鈥檚 undergraduate teacher preparation program an 鈥淎鈥� for reading foundations in its most recent review of Oregon programs. EOU was the only public university in the state to receive the top grade.

The article, part of a series 鈥�,鈥� examines the state鈥檚 ongoing literacy challenges. Currently, only about 40% of Oregon third graders read at grade level, according to state assessments cited in the report.

National experts have long emphasized the importance of teaching reading through research-based methods often referred to as the science of reading, which includes instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.

The Oregon Journalism Project reports that EOU鈥檚 strong performance reflects years of work to align its education curriculum with those evidence-based practices.

The article highlights the contributions of Ronda Fritz, Ed.D., professor of education at 蓝莓视频, whose efforts helped reshape the university鈥檚 reading instruction courses to align with research-supported methods.

鈥淚 am proud of our literacy team’s efforts to shift our programs to evidence-based practices for teaching reading and writing,鈥� said Fritz. 鈥淲e have worked hard over the last few years to ensure that our teacher candidates gain the knowledge and skills they need to be successful. It’s nice for that work to be recognized.鈥�

Fritz began examining reading instruction more closely after attending a training through the International Dyslexia Association that introduced her to the science of reading. After earning her doctorate and joining the EOU faculty, she redesigned the university鈥檚 reading curriculum to prepare future teachers.

Today, 蓝莓视频鈥檚 teacher preparation programs emphasize evidence-based literacy instruction alongside extensive classroom experience.

EOU鈥檚 College of Education prepares teachers who serve schools across Oregon, particularly in rural communities where access to well-trained educators is critical. The university offers both undergraduate and graduate pathways designed to prepare educators for classrooms throughout the state.

The Oregon Journalism Project article notes that while many teacher preparation programs nationwide have worked to align with the science of reading, progress has varied across institutions. In an analysis of Oregon programs, 蓝莓视频 emerged as a leading example of how universities can strengthen teacher preparation in literacy instruction.

The full article was produced by the Oregon Journalism Project, a nonprofit newsroom covering the state of Oregon.

An 蓝莓视频 teacher candidate works with an elementary student during a hands-on classroom activity, helping the student complete a puzzle at Imbler Charter School. (Michael K. Dakota/ 蓝莓视频)

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� 蓝莓视频 (EOU) is expanding opportunities for student achievement through its TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program and is encouraging eligible students to apply.

Funded by a recent $1.09 million, five-year federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education, TRIO Student Support Services provides individualized academic advising, tutoring, mentoring, and financial aid guidance to help students persist and graduate.

The program serves first-generation college students, students from low-income families, and students with disabilities. At EOU, where many students come from rural communities and are the first in their families to attend college, TRIO helps students stay enrolled, overcome academic challenges, and reach graduation.

鈥淚 believe in access, and this program provides access to students who might not otherwise receive this level of support,鈥� said Sam McCumber, student retention & advising coordinator. 鈥淭RIO serves students who are economically disadvantaged, first-generation, or students with disabilities. We have that population here, and we are committed to helping them succeed.鈥�

Through structured check-ins, academic planning, and personalized support, TRIO helps students navigate the complexities of higher education. Participants meet regularly with advisors, receive tutoring, and connect with peer mentors who help them stay on track academically and financially.

Quirah Elechuus, a junior from Palau and a first-generation college student, said the program provides consistent guidance and accountability.

鈥淚t helps with tutoring, peer mentoring, and financial aid,鈥� Elechuus said. 鈥淲e have three appointments each term, and they鈥檝e been very helpful. It鈥檚 free resources for you to succeed. All they want is for you to succeed.鈥�

Adam Smith, a junior from Pendleton, participated in TRIO while attending community college and credits the program with helping him successfully transfer to EOU.

鈥淚t really helped me in community college,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淭hey helped me figure out where to transfer and what steps to take. It鈥檚 always a good idea to have somebody helping any way they can.鈥�

University leaders say the renewed federal funding will strengthen these proven strategies and expand support for more students over the next five years. The renewed funding will allow EOU to serve more students and deepen the one-on-one support that has already helped participants persist and graduate.

TRIO Student Support Services is part of the Federal TRIO Programs, which are designed to identify and support individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. While institutions receive and administer the grants, eligible students must apply and be accepted into the program at their institution.

EOU officials encourage students who believe they may qualify to apply.

鈥淪tudents do not have to navigate college alone,鈥� McCumber said. 鈥淚f you think you might be eligible, reach out and apply. TRIO is here to support your goals from your first term through graduation.鈥�

To learn more about eligibility requirements or to submit an application, visit or email trio@eou.edu.

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� Puppies, piglets, Bernese mountain dogs, and baby goats are just part of the lineup when 蓝莓视频鈥檚 annual Stress Less event returns Wednesday, March 11, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the EOU Fieldhouse.

Held each winter term near midterm exams, Stress Less is the largest student-led event on campus and is designed to give students a break during one of the busiest times of the academic year. The event connects students with campus and community resources while promoting healthy ways to manage stress.

鈥淢idterms can be overwhelming,鈥� Megan Poler, a student organizer, said. 鈥淪tress Less gives students a chance to pause, recharge, and reconnect with their campus community. It鈥檚 a reminder that support and resources are always available.鈥�

The free event will feature live music, food, games, meditations, rock climbing, and door prizes donated by local businesses. Animal therapy, including puppies, piglets, and miniature horses, will provide students with an opportunity to unwind in a fun and interactive setting.

Campus departments and community partners will also be on hand to share information about resources available to students, including tutoring, counseling services and outdoor recreation opportunities. The event highlights EOU鈥檚 commitment to fostering an inviting and supportive campus culture that promotes student well-being and success.

Local businesses and campus partners, including Domino鈥檚, Genuine Foods, The Local, The Press Room, and Pepsi have donated food and beverages, which will be available free to students throughout the event.Stress Less is another way EOU supports the whole student, academically, socially, and emotionally. For more information, contact Megan Poler, EOU Community Health Intern | (208)596-7740 |  mpoler@eou.edu.

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� 蓝莓视频鈥檚 Bennie Moses-Mesubed, Associate Vice President for Strategic Equity Initiatives,  has been named a recipient of the 2026 Outstanding First-Year Student Advocates Award, presented by the National Resource Center for The First-Year Experience and Students in Transition in collaboration with Penguin Random House Publishing.

The National Resource Center is dedicated to setting the standard of excellence for supporting student transitions and facilitating educational success for diverse student populations. Each year, presidents of American higher education institutions are invited to nominate one educator who demonstrates exceptional commitment to advancing first-year student success through high-impact practices.

Moses-Mesubed serves as Associate Vice President for Strategic Equity Initiatives and the TRiO Project Director at 蓝莓视频. TRIO is a set of federal outreach and student services programs designed to support low-income, first-generation, and disabled students in higher education. In this role, she provides leadership and strategic vision to develop and coordinate campus initiatives that advance equity and belonging, working across campus units to foster collaboration and alignment across units toward a shared, campus-wide approach. She also oversees the MOSAIC Center & HUB, International and Native American programs, Study Abroad, and the Benefits Navigator, while supporting efforts that strengthen intercultural competency, inclusion, and improve the enrollment, retention, and completion for underserved student populations.

During her tenure at EOU, Moses-Mesubed helped establish what is now known as the MOSAIC Center and launched several transformative programs, including the Celebrate, Educate, & Appreciate Diversity Conference, the Mountie Allies program, and Kickstart Orientation, now known as Summer Bridge. The Summer Bridge program was recognized as a national model for student success by the National Humanities Alliance.

Her scholarship and leadership extend beyond campus. Moses-Mesubed has presented at the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE), the 44th Annual First-Year Experience Conference, and the Conference on Community Writing. She also co-authored legislation expanding in-state tuition eligibility for students from the Compact of Free Association (COFA) nations and special immigrant visa holders.

Currently a doctoral candidate at Oregon State University, Moses-Mesubed鈥檚 research examines how cultural mismatch and systemic barriers impact persistence for Compact of Free Association (COFA) students, and the mechanisms utilized by students to persist and progress; using those findings to inform high-impact practices, highlighting the shared barriers COFA, first-generation, and rural students often experience.All 2026 award recipients will be recognized on the Center鈥檚 website, social media channels, and in the spring issue of Insights for College Transitions.

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� Teach Rural Oregon is pleased to announce that it has received an Oregon Rural Classroom Stipends grant from . The $17,000 grant will be used to provide classroom setup and support grants to rural undergraduate and graduate student educators. These student educators are either currently placed in a rural school for their field experience or student teaching, or they accept a position in a rural Oregon school district after receiving their certification. Funds will allow educators to set up their classrooms, purchase essential materials and supplies, and invest in their schools.

Thanks to this grant, 66 new educators will each receive a one-time $250 award to support their work.

Foundry10 is an education research organization with a philanthropic focus on expanding idea about learning and creating direct value for youth. This project also aligns with foundry10鈥檚 Geographically Isolated Youth anchor, which focuses on investing in professional development opportunities for rural educators. Foundry10’s Geographically Isolated Youth anchor supports rural schools, school districts, and community-based organizations with educational tools and resources across the following categories: STEM education, digital skills and technology access, as well as professional development and educator resources.

蓝莓视频 was founded in 1929 as a teacher鈥檚 college and today serves as a center for education, culture, and scholarship in rural areas of Oregon. 蓝莓视频 serves more than 2,800 students across 30 academic programs. EOU鈥檚 Teach Rural Oregon program (TRO) aims to recruit diverse student teachers (including first-generation) to complete their student teaching in rural and isolated rural districts across Oregon.

The Teach Rural Oregon program at 蓝莓视频 is consistent with best practice recommendations for funding rural schools. It operates using an asset mindset, seeing the opportunity and value of rural schools and rural educators, while also addressing gaps in resources for rural educators.

Teach Rural Oregon is thankful for this opportunity to assist rural educators with classroom supplies and is deeply appreciative to foundry10 for this support of our mission at a time when rural schools are struggling to financially provide teachers with quality curricular support.

LAGRANDE, Ore. – When Hannah Brown steps onto the stage in Loso Hall this March, she won鈥檛 just be performing Shakespeare. She鈥檒l be singing it.

鈥淚t鈥檚 very different,鈥� said Brown, a senior at 蓝莓视频. 鈥淣ick took all of those Shakespeare words and put them into songs. The words are Shakespeare, but the music is all originally Nick.鈥�

The music belongs to Nicholas Vece, 鈥�24, who returned to campus to premiere Thou Hast Thy Will, a 14-piece song cycle built from Shakespeare鈥檚 sonnets and monologues. The Winter 2026 production runs March 12鈥�14 at 7 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on March 15 in the Schwarz Theatre.

For Vece, the idea began during rehearsal several years ago when he was still a student.

鈥淚 was working on a monologue, and the director stopped me and said, 鈥楽hakespeare鈥檚 just music. It has rhythm. It has flow,鈥欌�� Vece said. 鈥淭hat stuck with me. If it鈥檚 already music, then it could be music if I wrote it that way.鈥�

Over the next two years, including his final year at EOU and after graduation, Vece began composing. The result blends jazz, folk and musical theater styles, all grounded in Shakespeare鈥檚 original language.

The production is intentionally lean. It requires no elaborate set and no costly performance rights. It features four student vocalists, a piano, percussion and bass. For a rural university where creativity often meets practicality, it is high-impact art built with intention.

Junior Jakob Graffunder said the concept drew him in immediately.

鈥淭aking the sonnets and putting them into music, it鈥檚 such a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience,鈥� Graffunder said. 鈥淚 knew I wanted to be part of it.鈥�

Brown said rehearsals have pushed the cast.

鈥淥h yes, lots of Shakespeare to memorize,鈥� she said, laughing. 鈥淏ut we鈥檝e had so much fun performing it.鈥�

For Vece, returning to campus as a director feels different than being a student.

鈥淲hen you鈥檙e at a place like EOU, you don鈥檛 just stay in one lane,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 worked in the costume shop. I was a teaching assistant for acting and stage combat. I studied jazz theory and music production. You learn how everything fits together.鈥�

That hands-on experience shaped the way he built this production. He writes the music, directs the cast and collaborates closely with student performers. A fellow alum, Hannah Johnson, 鈥�24, serves as music director, and an alum bassist will return to perform with the ensemble, creating a production that bridges graduating classes.

鈥淭hese are students who remind me of myself a few years ago,鈥� Vece said. 鈥淚f I can create a space for them to perform something original, that matters to me.鈥�

After graduating in 2024, Vece remained in La Grande. He now works in pediatric behavioral health, running an integrated primary care program that teaches adolescents skills to manage anxiety and depression. He is awaiting word on admission to a Ph.D. program, with the goal of becoming a university psychology professor.

Even as he looks toward five more years of study, he says theater will remain part of his life.

鈥淚 never wanted to make it a job,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 wanted to keep that fire alive.鈥漌ith Thou Hast Thy Will, that fire returns to the Schwarz Theatre stage, carried by student voices and shaped by an alum who once stood where they stand now. For Eastern Oregon audiences, it is both a new production and a reminder of what can grow when graduates come back to build something.

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� The 蓝莓视频 Board of Trustees met February 18鈥�19, 2026, advancing governance improvements, reviewing state funding issues, and reinforcing EOU鈥檚 role as Oregon鈥檚 Rural University. 

Central themes of the meeting were access and advocacy. Trustees discussed digital accessibility compliance and faculty innovation to support student success, and learned from students who met with legislators during the Public University Student Lobby Day on Feb. 12 in support of funding to improve access to higher education. 

President Kelly Ryan and Vice President for University Advancement Tim Seydel provided state and federal legislative updates and reviewed the Higher Education Coordinating Commission鈥檚 Spending & Efficiency Report. Trustees expressed concern about Oregon鈥檚 low national ranking in per capita higher education funding and emphasized the need for sustained, systemic investment to better serve students and rural communities.

The board approved the FY27鈥�29 Capital Planning Request, including four projects to be forwarded for ranking and state bonding support in the 2027 legislative session. Governance updates were reviewed and accepted, reducing the size of two standing committees and revising the Governance Committee Charter to streamline meetings and improve board effectiveness.

Trustees also highlighted the importance of personal advocacy, encouraging members to share their commitment to public higher education and to communicate about the complexities of state funding resources and challenges with the state鈥檚 Student Success and Completion Model. 

Access and advocacy are also key components of the EOU Foundation鈥檚 upcoming comprehensive campaign. The Board received an update on the campaign feasibility study, which is scheduled to be completed in March. 

Meeting materials and recordings are available through the EOU governance webpage.For more information about public comment, see sections 8 and 9 of.  EOU Board of Trustees Regular and Committee meetings are accessible to persons with disabilities.  If special accommodations are required, please contact (541) 962-3006 or board@eou.edu at least 72 hours in advance.

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� The Eastern Oregon Regional High School Art Exhibition featuring over 250 works by students from 15 regional high schools opened Friday, February 20. Awards were presented by Nightingale Gallery Director Cory Peeke. The EOU Art Department and Nightingale Gallery would like to congratulate the following award winners from this year鈥檚 exhibition and recognize the hardworking educators who make it all possible.聽聽

Awards were presented for exemplary work by students in grades 9-12. All Best of Show winners received an award certificate, a $50 Dick Blick Art Supply gift card, and a sketchbook from the EOU Art Department, as well as an EOU tote bag and other EOU swag, compliments of the Offices of Admissions and University Advancement. Honorable Mention recipients received a certificate of award.

Best of Show 12^th Grade:

Ezra Storlie (Enterprise High) for their oil painting 鈥淔uture, Present, Past鈥� 

Best of Show 11^th Grade:    

Maximus Eckstein (Elgin High) for their ceramic sculpture鈥淪hell of Great Detail鈥�

Best of Show 10^th Grade:    

Brielle McCrae (Powder Valley High) for their inkjet print 鈥淏lack and White Light鈥�

Best of Show 9th Grade:

Allah Wallace (Joseph Charter School) for their graphite drawing 鈥淪tudent Portrait鈥�

Honorable Mentions:

Burns

Lyra Lu, 11^th grade, for their watercolor 鈥淶oey鈥� 

Grant Union

Lilly Paddock, 11^th grade, for their drawing 鈥淐rab Apple Shade鈥�

La Grande

Rydar McIlmoil, 11^th grade, for their ceramic pot 鈥淭he Piece鈥�

McLoughlin

Katelynn Martinez, 12^th grade, for their mixed media work 鈥淧iecing Together the Past鈥�

Kyla Thorpe, 9^th grade, for their drawing 鈥淩edmont鈥�

Pendleton

Ella La Mere, 12^th grade, for their mixed media sculpture 鈥淭he Socking鈥�

Isaia Norris, 11^th grade, for their Inkjet Print 鈥淯ntitled鈥�

Zarina Park, 12^th grade, for their painting 鈥淲ho Ate My Leftovers鈥�

Powder Valley

Aiden Flores, 11^th grade, for their inkjet print 鈥淎lexis鈥�

Ella Herrera, 9^th grade, for their inkjet print 鈥淕race鈥�  

Union

Faith Albers, 10^th grade, for their painting 鈥淣onchalant鈥�

Liberty Albers, 12^th grade, for their painting 鈥淛oy鈥�

Tyler Leathers, 10^th grade, for their painting 鈥淎shla鈥�

Four regional art centers presented special awards to young artists from their service areas. Art Center East presented an 鈥淓xcellence in the Arts-Union County鈥� award to Lauren Leathers 12th grader from Union High for their ceramic sculpture 鈥淚ntrusive Thoughts,鈥� an 鈥淓xcellence in the Arts-Grant County鈥� award to Calia Paddock 10th grader from Grant Union High for their drawing 鈥淧omegranate,鈥� and an 鈥淓xcellence in the Arts-Harney County鈥� award to Lyra Lu 11th grader from Burns High for their painting 鈥淐hubby Cat.鈥� Each award comes with an ACE art kit. Baker County鈥檚 Crossroads Carnegie Art Center awarded a $50 award. Their 鈥淥utstanding Baker High School Student Award鈥� went to 10th grader Daelylah Dalton for their ceramic sculpture 鈥淕rax.鈥� Pendleton Center for the Arts presented a $100 鈥淧CA Award of Distinction鈥� to Pendleton High School 12th grader Zarina Park for their acrylic painting 鈥淚ntersection of NW 6th and Garden.鈥� The Josephy Center for Arts and Culture presented the 鈥淲allowa County High School Best of Show Award鈥� in the form of a $100 Dick Blick gift card to Abigail Dundas of Joseph for their Ink and watercolor drawing 鈥淣o More.鈥�

Art Center East鈥檚 award was selected by Jennifer Durr, ACE Gallery Director, and presented by Rikki Jo Hickey, ACE Youth Learning Coordinator. Crossroads Carnegie Art Center鈥檚 award winner was selected by Cory Peeke on behalf of Crossroads Executive Director Ginger Savage and presented by Crossroads Education Coordinator Melody Chaves. The Pendleton Center for the Arts award was selected by PCA Executive Director Roberta Lavadour. The Josephy Center award was selected by EOU Art faculty, and both the PCA and Josephy awards were presented by Cory Peeke.

You can view the winning artists鈥� works on the Nightingale鈥檚 account.

鈥淥n behalf of the EOU Art Department and the Nightingale Gallery, I would like to congratulate the winners and all the students with work on view,鈥� said Cory Peeke, Nightingale Gallery Director, 鈥渁nd I would also like to congratulate the art teachers who go above and beyond to make this event the success it is each year.鈥� The following is a list of those teachers:

Baker City High School-Koedi Birmingham

Burns High School-Emily Kokesh

Cove High School-Eric Gustavson

Crane Union High School-Connie Robbins

Echo High School-Rick Thew

Elgin High School-Amanda Welch

Enterprise High School-Dianne Pfel

Grant Union High School- JJ Collier
Joseph Charter School- Jennifer Hawkins
La Grande High School-Rich McIlmoil

McLoughlin High School (Milton-Freewater)-Marianne Smith

Monument High School- Erica Cade 

Pendleton High School- Abby Prevot

Powder Valley High School- Jessie Street
Union High School-Jaime Gustavson

The 2026 Eastern Oregon Regional High School Exhibition runs through March 13. The Nightingale Gallery is located in Loso Hall on the campus of 蓝莓视频 in La Grande, OR.聽 Gallery hours are Monday-Friday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.聽聽

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� 蓝莓视频 will take nearly thirty students, faculty, staff, and Trustees to the Oregon State Capitol in Salem to participate in 2026 University Day, joining the state鈥檚 seven public universities for a day of advocacy in support of higher education.

Students participating in University Day represent both EOU鈥檚 La Grande campus and its online student population from communities across Oregon, reflecting the university鈥檚 statewide footprint and commitment to access for rural and place-bound learners.

University Day provides EOU students with a hands-on opportunity to engage directly in the legislative process, meet with elected officials, connect with higher education advocates, and network with fellow students from across Oregon. Participants will attend meetings, learn about current policy issues affecting public universities, and experience firsthand how advocacy shapes higher education at the state level.

鈥淭his is a meaningful extension of EOU鈥檚 commitment to civic engagement,鈥� said Tim Seydel, Vice President for University Advancement. 鈥淏y bringing students from across Oregon into the Capitol and giving them direct access to lawmakers, we are helping them understand how public policy impacts higher education and empowering them to be informed, engaged citizens. These experiences reinforce EOU鈥檚 role as a steward of leadership and advocacy for rural Oregon and the state as a whole.鈥�

Presidents from all seven public universities will also be present at the Capitol, spending the day alongside students to advocate collectively for Oregon鈥檚 higher education institutions and the importance of continued state investment in access, affordability, and student success.

As part of the day鈥檚 activities, EOU students will meet with Representative Bobby Levy and Senator Todd Nash in a regional-focused meeting to connect directly with eastern Oregon legislators, ask questions about current legislation, learn about the career paths that led them into public service, and discuss issues impacting rural communities and higher education.

鈥淔or EOU, being visible and present alongside our peer institutions matters,鈥� said Diego Vergara Zuber, President of the Associated Students of 蓝莓视频. 鈥淯niversity Day shows that EOU students鈥攚hether they are studying on campus or online all over the state鈥攁re part of the statewide higher education conversation. It鈥檚 an opportunity to share our perspectives, advocate for our communities, and ensure rural student voices are heard at the Capitol.鈥�

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� 蓝莓视频 will host a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program information session for prospective candidates interested in a 10-month, accelerated path to the classroom.

The session will be hosted by Kristin Johnson, MAT pre-admissions advisor, and Christina Thew, MAT program coordinator. Attendees will learn about the MAT program schedule, prerequisites, cost, and outcomes, with time for questions. 

鈥淭he session will help prospective candidates decide whether the cohort-based MAT is the right fit,鈥� Johnson said. 鈥淲e will outline admission steps, time commitment, costs and how the program prepares graduates for licensure and teaching positions in Oregon schools.鈥�

蓝莓视频鈥檚 College of Education offers a full-time, accelerated MAT program that combines real classroom experience with the coursework needed to prepare for teaching. Students move through the program as part of a cohort over four consecutive terms, starting in summer and finishing the following spring. Hybrid classes make it possible for candidates to complete student teaching placements across Oregon while staying on track with the program.

MAT information session details

Date: Feb. 4, 2026

Time: Noon to 1 p.m.

Location: Zabel Hall 224, 蓝莓视频

Hosted by: Kristin Johnson and Christina Thew

鈥淧articipants will leave with a clear plan for next steps, what to expect week to week, and how the 10-month MAT is designed to move candidates from preparation to the classroom.鈥�

The MAT program prepares candidates to teach in public or private schools at either the elementary or secondary level. Because the program is cohort-based, candidates begin together and progress through the full program as a group. 

Prospective candidates can learn more at .

La Grande, Ore. 鈥揟he Nightingale Gallery of 蓝莓视频 presents our annual “Eastern Oregon Regional High School Exhibition.”  The exhibition runs from Feb. 20 to March 13. There will be an opening reception for the exhibition on Friday, Feb. 20, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the gallery. Awards will be presented at 5:30 p.m. that evening.

The “Eastern Oregon Regional High School Exhibition鈥� provides a unique experience for young artists. This is the first opportunity most of them have to not only exhibit their work but to exhibit alongside their eastern Oregon peers. 

鈥淏ringing high school art into the University’s Nightingale Gallery is such an enriching event,鈥� says Jaime Gustavson, Art Teacher at Union High School. 鈥淯nion students look forward to the exhibition every year.鈥�  

The exhibit also allows the community to engage with the creative work of students from high schools throughout our region.  Students working in a variety of media in grades nine through twelve will have up to two works on view. Schools with students scheduled to participate include Baker City, Burns, Crane Union, Echo, Elgin, Enterprise, Grant Union, La Grande, McLoughlin, Monument, Pendleton, Powder Valley, and Union.  

The EOU Art Program faculty will jury the exhibit and award a number of honors. Award certificates, gift cards, sketchbooks, and a variety of EOU swag will be presented to the Best of Show winners in grades nine through twelve.  Honorable mentions will also receive certificates. 

Several regional art centers will also be presenting special awards to students from their service areas. They include Art Center East, Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, The Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, and Pendleton Center for the Arts.

鈥淭he Nightingale Gallery continues its decades-long commitment to celebrating the creative endeavors of our region’s young artists,鈥� said Cory Peeke, Nightingale Gallery Director. 鈥淲e recognize and encourage these students鈥� creative pursuits as well as acknowledge the hard work and dedication of their teachers who devotedly cultivate such promising young talent.鈥�

The Nightingale Gallery is located in Loso Hall on the campus of 蓝莓视频 in La Grande, OR.聽 Gallery hours are Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, please follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
To request images of artwork for publication, contact Gallery Director Cory Peeke at cpeeke@eou.edu.

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� 蓝莓视频 named 606 students to the dean’s list for the 2026 fall term. Qualifying students achieve and maintain a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale while completing a minimum of 12 hours of graded coursework for the term.

As an educational, cultural, and scholarly center, EOU connects the rural regions of Oregon to a wider world. Our beautiful setting and small size enhance the personal attention our students receive, while partnerships with colleges, universities, agencies, and communities add to the educational possibilities of our region and state.

See the Fall 2025 Dean’s List

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� The Committees of the Board of Trustees of 蓝莓视频 will meet on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026.   The Finance & Administration Committee will meet from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.  The Governance Committee will meet from 12:10 p.m. to 2 p.m. The Academic & Student Affairs Committee will meet from 2 p.m. to  4:30 p.m.  These meetings will take place in the Inlow Hall Board Room, Rm. 201, on the campus of 蓝莓视频 in La Grande, Oregon. The public is invited to attend in person. The meetings will also be broadcast via the internet, and recordings of the meetings will be available for viewing following the meetings. Livestream and recordings are available from the board鈥檚 webpage: /governance/.

January 28, 2026 Committee Meeting Materials can be accessed here:

Public Comments must be received by 10 a.m. on Jan. 26, 2026.

鈼�  Written Comments: may be submitted electronically to board@eou.edu or mailed/delivered to the Office of the General Counsel and Board Secretary at One University Blvd, Inlow Hall 247, La Grande, OR, 97850. Materials may be subject to disclosure under the Public Records Law.

鈼�  Remote Oral Comments:  For delivery of an oral comment via Zoom, the request must be submitted electronically to board@eou.edu. Please provide a contact phone number and specify if you wish to comment during a particular agenda item or during the public comment section. A follow-up email with further instructions will be sent to you.

鈼�  In- Personal Oral Comments:  For in-person oral comment during an Agenda Item, requests must be submitted electronically to board@eou.edu.  Please provide a contact phone number and specify if you wish to comment on a particular agenda topic or during the public comment section. A follow-up email with further instructions will be sent to you.

鈼�  In-Person Oral Comment (Public Comment Section):  It is preferred that requests be submitted electronically to board@eou.edu. The public may also sign up in person in the boardroom before the public comment section starts. The sign-in sheet will be located at the Recorder’s desk.  For more information about public comment, see sections 8 and 9 of.  EOU Board of Trustees Regular and Committee meetings are accessible to persons with disabilities.  If special accommodations are required, please contact (541) 962-3006 or board@eou.edu at least 72 hours in advance.

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� 蓝莓视频 (EOU) has received a $1.09 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to support student success through its TRIO Student Support Services program. The five-year award will expand services designed to help students from disadvantaged backgrounds persist in college and graduate on time.

The grant will allow EOU to enhance tutoring, academic advising, mentoring, and financial education for students who face barriers to earning a college degree.

TRIO Student Support Services is part of the federal TRIO programs, which primarily serve first-generation college students, students from low-income families, and students with disabilities.

鈥淭he TRIO Student Support Services grant is a major step forward for 蓝莓视频 and the students we serve,鈥� said Kelly Ryan, Ph.D., president of EOU. 鈥淢any students鈥攅specially those from rural communities鈥攁re less likely to attend and complete college without targeted support. These resources strengthen our mission to create clear pathways for all students to achieve a university education.鈥�

Nationally, approximately 870,000 first-generation and low-income students were served by more than 3,400 TRIO programs in 2025. In Oregon, TRIO programs at public institutions and community colleges served more than 4,800 college students during the 2023鈥�24 academic year.

鈥淭RIO helps students persist and graduate across the country,鈥� said Bennie Moses-Mesubed, associate vice president for strategic equity services. 鈥淲ith this funding, we can expand proven strategies and support more students at EOU.鈥�

Students who believe they may qualify for TRIO Student Support Services are encouraged to apply. To learn more or submit an application, visit or email trio@eou.edu.

LA GRANDE, Ore. 鈥� Students and community members with big questions, or simply a curiosity about innovation, will have the opportunity to turn ideas into real-world solutions during the Eastern Oregon Innovation Jam, a hands-on event hosted by 蓝莓视频 in early 2026.

Participants will work in teams to explore real-world challenges, develop ideas, and create early-stage prototypes with guidance from mentors and industry professionals. No pre-existing idea is required, and teams must include at least one enrolled college student. Community members from across the region are encouraged to participate.

Students who take part in the Innovation Jam will have the opportunity to advance to InventOR 2026, Oregon鈥檚 statewide collegiate prototyping challenge, where winning teams can compete for more than $30,000 in prizes.

The Eastern Oregon Innovation Jam will take place on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026 (9 a.m.鈥�5 p.m.) and Saturday, April 4, 2026 (9 a.m.鈥�3 p.m.) at 蓝莓视频.

Faculty, professionals, and community members are also invited to support the event as mentors, instructors, or judges, helping student teams build skills and confidence while strengthening Eastern Oregon鈥檚 growing innovation ecosystem.

The is hosted by EOU in partnership with Invent Oregon, the Oregon Frontier Innovation Hub, an initiative of EOU鈥檚 Rural Engagement & Vitality (REV) Center, and EOU鈥檚 Greater Oregon Science Technology Engineering & Math (GO-STEM) Hub. The Oregon Frontier Innovation Hub is supported by Business Oregon.

For more information, visit www.revcenter.org/2026-innovation-jam. To schedule a classroom or community presentation, contact Carter Gudell at cgudell@revcenter.org, (860) 899-8395.