“We have a long, lovely list of the ways EOU has impacted our life and our family,” Phyllis Arnst said. “Our journey started in Eastern Oregon in 1968 in Wallowa County and then to La Grande. The journey has been as beautiful as this region itself.”

The couple met at Rocky Mountain College in Billings, Montana. Their relationship blossomed, leading to marriage and a move to Winifred, Montana where Fred took on roles as a head coach and PE teacher.

 â€śI was taking summer classes at the University of Montana and met the superintendent for Wallowa County who told me about an opportunity.”

 After six wonderful years in Wallowa County, a new opportunity arose in La Grande. 

“Not long after we moved to La Grande, I found a position with Eastern–I worked for three presidents, and three name changes,” Phyllis said. “I started working for a state college and retired from a university!”

“So many of our children and grandchildren have attended Eastern and earned degrees here,” Phyllis continued. “Because of our backgrounds and interests, it got us thinking about the type of students we want to support. We’re interested in supporting students who can use help, so we wanted to make sure our scholarship is renewable,” Phyllis commented.  

“It was important to us to establish rapport with students. Providing renewable scholarships makes the students feel good, knowing there are people out there who want to support their journey and help them succeed.”

“It’s a big deal,” Fred said. “It’s just one of the ways we can help students get through school–to be successful now, but also helping students succeed in life.”

“EOU does a good job helping students see the importance of philanthropy in their own lives and communities,” Phyllis reflected. “In our retirement years, we look back and see all of the benefits from our educational opportunities. We want to pay it forward, so students can have fulfilling and productive lives. It’s our hope they’ll be inspired to one day give back to their  own home communities.”

Mountaineer athletics are about much more than just winning games, they are the foundation for creating success in academics and life beyond the classroom. 

Volleyball Head Coach Kaki McLean Morehead just marked her 17th season and is the most successful volleyball coach in EOU history, boasting a record of 406-124. Her coaching philosophy extends beyond just winning, emphasizing personal development, academic achievement, and life skills. This approach has led EOU volleyball to achieve records filled with wins, and the creation of an environment where players thrive.

The team’s 2023-24 journey from preseason to the national semifinals illustrates their evolution, driven by a blend of unique talents and strong personalities. Players like Ashton Haughton, a senior pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching, showcase the balance between athletic dedication and academic success. 

Reflecting on her time on the team, Ashton credits volleyball with helping her learn crucial life lessons, how tofoster a sense of community, and selflessness.

“Each season has a unique team, and no team is the same from season to season,” Ashton said. “It’s so exciting every year because we experience new things and grow. Since I’ve started, we’ve grown so much, and it’s fun to see each player develop and evolve as we come together.”

Adrienne Washington, starting as a graduate assistant coach, shared how her experience highlights the competitive and supportive environment.

“We always talk about how, in practice, we play against each other and that’s the highest level we can play. At the games, we finally get to play together and it’s so rewarding.”

Coach Morehead focuses on developing student-athletes who are skilled in competition, committed to their education, and engaged in the community. 

“We’re not only winning on the court and in the classrooms, but we’re making great humans, and that’s what it’s all about,” Morehead said.

Team member Sade Williams noted “The community offers so much encouragement,” Sade Williams saThe biggest win is the community support; that means everything, and you’ll certainly always find that at EOU.” 

The legacy of leadership is about the games won and the lives changed, reflected in over 400 wins.

“That number speaks to the incredible women I get to be around,” Coach Morehead said. “That number isn’t just about me. It reflects the willingness of our athletes to give the game–to give me–their best. Every single day. I’m so thankful for what we have at EOU. I love Mountie Nation and I’m so proud to be a part of this family.”

EOU prides itself on creating a vibrant and welcoming environment for its students. Recognizing the critical link between student connections and academic success, EOU builds a sense of belonging through campus vitality initiatives, including club activities, special events, student-faculty-staff competitions, and more.

Under the leadership of President Kelly Ryan, EOU has expanded these efforts, encouraging all departments to contribute to a lively campus environment throughout the academic year.

“We’ve prioritized joy and connection in everything we do, from karaoke nights and drum circles to caramel apple dipping and root beer float socials,” President Ryan said. “These are designed to provide students with moments of joy and connections between classes, and significantly enhances their campus experience.”

One of the innovative programs showcasing this effort is the Week of Welcome (WOW). Designed to help connect new students with one another and the larger community, the week is packed with activities including tug-of-war battles, cornhole tournaments, concerts, bonfires, and even a few trainings about classes and campus life, each intended to embrace the EOU spirit.

Kathryn Shorts, Director of Student Success and Transition, is dedicated to getting students out of their comfort zones to develop new friendships and build a sense of community at EOU.

“Our goal is to ensure every student feels like an integral part of the campus,” Shorts explains. “We want them to feel connected because that connection is crucial for their overall success.”

Students echo Kathryn’s sentiments, highlighting the positive impact of these initiatives.

Natanya Reed found WOW instrumental in forming lasting friendships that inspired her to become a WOW Student Leader.

“It’s been rewarding to see how the connections I made during WOW have lasted and helped me here at EOU,” Natanya said.

With over 50 clubs and organizations, students have numerous opportunities to pursue their passions and gain new perspectives. 

EOU’s student-centered approach is succeeding, with retention rates climbing each term. This spring, the University achieved 82.1% overall retention.

Determination, dedication, and opportunity are key ingredients for academic success—just look at David Press, an Ŕ¶Ý®ĘÓƵ alum who recently completed his 39-year academic journey. The flexibility of EOU’s online courses and programs allowed him to pursue his dream despite life’s obstacles.

David’s educational journey began in 1984, with an aspiration to become a child psychologist. Despite facing advanced thyroid cancer during his freshman year at a college near his Dayton, Ohio home, David never stopped believing he could earn his degree.

Over the next four decades, he attended several schools, taking classes and working towards his degree, but in 2020 it was a comment from his young son that surprised, then inspired David to return to higher education and earn a degree.

Amid the challenges of the pandemic, David noticed his son,Isaac, disengaged from online classes. This prompted him to have a conversation

with his son about the importance of education. Isaac’s response: “So Dad, if it’s so important, why didn’t you finish?”

His son’s response struck a chord and re-energized David’s commitment to complete his educational journey.

Now working in clinical care, he admits he was taken aback by the comment, but inspired to walk that last mile. From his home in Arvada, Colorado, David chose EOU’s online platform for its quality and flexibility.

One of the most transfer-friendly schools in Oregon, EOU’s transfer policy allows students who have not completed their degree at other institutions to work with academic advisors and utilize previously earned credits to create a plan to take them to graduation.  

EOU works with each student individually based on their needs and goals. 

“An in-depth review of a student’s entire college career, by multiple departments, ends up creating a pathway for students to graduate,” Transcript Evaluator-Articulation Specialist, Brooke Hewitt said. “When we are looking at a student’s documents to help overcome obstacles, we evaluate the individual student’s experiences and records as a whole and come up with the best plan for the student based on their needs.”

In the fall of 2023, David received the phone call he had been waiting for with confirmation from the EOU’s Office of the Provost that he would, indeed, graduate.

“Are you joking? Is this a joke?” David exclaimed. “I was flabbergasted; I was literally in tears.”

Today, David provides psychological therapy to people in nursing homes. He manages psychologists and licensed social workers, and he hopes to one day earn a Master’s in Counseling—another lifelong ambition.

For now, he hopes his accomplishment will inspire his son.

“The best part was when I picked up my son and told him I was going to graduate. He hugged me and in that moment, every late night was worth it. It was worth it to show him not to give up,” David said. “Maybe, just don’t take 39 years!”

At EOU, students find numerous paths to success, including through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). Designed to develop leaders across disciplines, ROTC is open to all degree programs. This elective curriculum, taken alongside required classes, equips students with tools, training, and experiences essential for success in any competitive environment.

“ROTC is designed to cultivate leaders, complimenting students’ coursework with practical skills and experiences,” Captain Renee Meckel, Assistant Professor of Military Science, said.

The Military Science Leadership Minor enhances students’ leadership skills alongside their academic pursuits. Upon completing the program, students are commissioned as officers as part of EOU’s graduation ceremonies each spring. The ROTC curriculum covers lessons from military history, emphases self-development, physical and mental toughness, and lifelong learning.

EOU’s program dates back to 1940 with the 354th Army Gold Club, initially training pilots for World War II. In 1991, it became a commissioning source at Eastern Oregon State College, transitioning to an ROTC program in 2009. Since that time, EOU has produced officers for numerous units, maintaining a tradition of excellence in physical fitness, military professionalism, and fieldcraft. The unofficial motto, “Electos Filios Legion” or “The Brigade’s Elite,” reflects EOU’s commitment to being the best ROTC company in the state.

  Jessica McDonald joined ROTC after learning about the extensive scholarship opportunities. 

“The ROTC scholarship covered my housing and even provided a stipend for meal plans, which was a huge help during my freshman year, especially when my mom lost her job due to COVID-19,” McDonald shared.

Despite its small size, the program has pushed students into challenging situations, fostering growth. The unit and class sizes create a supportive and engaging learning environment.

“This program is more than just going to the gym and participating in labs and classes. It’s about partnership and teamwork, networking and scholarship,” McDonald stressed. “The scholarship does help a lot, so that’s very nice. From freshman to senior year, if you put the work into it, you’re putting work into yourself. The instructors and staff are going to work for you, and they’re going to help you become a better person and a better leader.”

Building Lifelong Connections

Success can be measured in the many  meaningful connections made during your college experience. Savannah and Naomi Potter found far more than academic success at Ŕ¶Ý®ĘÓƵ, where they built lifelong relationships that will extend well beyond graduation. 

“I took full advantage of connecting and meeting people here, and I’m going to build on those relationships for the rest of my life,” Savannah shared. “Those are what are going to outlast my experience here.” 

Echoing her older sister’s sentiment, Naomi appreciates the meaningful and close-knit relationships with faculty at EOU. 

“The small campus allows you to get close with the faculty, in a way you just can’t at a larger campus,” Naomi said. “It’s incredible the friendships you make with your professors.    They will change your life, and that’s so different from a big campus.” 

Savannah agreed, adding that the faculty have made her experience phenomenal.

A Journey of Discovery and Growth

Savannah’s early experience was shaped by the pandemic and online classes at a community college. Her decision to transfer was influenced by convenience and EOU’s  reputation. Raised in Baker City, she found the intimate environment provided a sense of community that was invaluable. Inspired by the science faculty, Savannah shifted her focus to chemistry. 

“From a very young age, I was always intrigued by science,” she said. “I was planning to become an ophthalmologist, but the encouragement from my chemistry professor changed my path.” 

Initially hesitant about attending college, Naomi found EOU’s unique charm irresistible. 

“I didn’t initially want to go to college, and I certainly didn’t want to go to EOU because it was so close to home. But it turned out to be the best decision of my life,” Naomi admitted.

A Shared Passion

Coming from a musical family, the sisters often perform together both on and off campus, balancing their academic commitments with their love for music. When Professor of Music Peter Wordelman asked them to perform at a Board of Trustees meeting, they felt deeply honored. 

“Our music faculty are exceptional. I changed my major to be more music-focused because of Peter,” Naomi said. “He has been such an inspiration, just like  Savannah’s chemistry professors.” 

Savannah added, “Music keeps me grounded when science gets crazy. My sister and I are almost always up for any gig or performance, and we love it.” 

Looking Forward

Naomi reflected more on the importance of savoring the college experience. 

“These were the most amazing years of my life, and they go by so fast. I try to slow down and enjoy them,” she said. 

Savannah encourages freshmen to explore various experiences. “I had no plans to pursue chemistry initially, but by participating in the chemistry club during my first year, I discovered a genuine passion for it,” she said.

Student Finds Success as Nightingale Gallery Director

Hadley Marshall, a junior from Burns, just wrapped up is her first year as Student Director for the Nightingale Gallery in Loso Hall. Through this hands-on experience, she’s discovered her ability to lead after embracing this position.

What have you learned about yourself? 

“I have learned to lead a team, which is something I didn’t think I could do. I’ve been able to lead a team of attendants, and also communicate with visiting artists. When I leave this position, I want to be in a spot where I continue to develop those skills. This college fosters an environment where students can succeed. I think that will be a crucial skill moving forward in my professional and personal life. You learn so much, including how to work with visiting artists, and how to install work, that is something that most colleges don’t offer.”

Why did you choose EOU? 

“It’s a small school with a level of education that feels more like that of a private school. EOU is an amazing fit for me. I love the community and the professors, my peers, and just all the opportunities.”

How did you become the Student Director? 

“I saw the opening for the position and as somebody who loves the arts and loves to be involved in the arts, decided to apply.”

Would you recommend EOU to others?

“I would absolutely recommend EOU to others. This campus and this school, it’s just so unique!”

Finding Success on Stage and in Class

For many students, academic and creative pursuits may be overshadowed by financial burdens, but with the Rural Arts Scholarship Program, Ŕ¶Ý®ĘÓƵ has introduced a pathway to new possibilities for aspiring musicians. The initiative is designed to provide significant financial support to freshman music majors from rural areas, and it’s already making an impact. 

Funded through a generous $1 million allocation from the State of Oregon and championed by State Representative Greg Smith, ’94, ’07, the Rural Arts Scholarship Program is making a meaningful difference in the lives of four EOU freshmen. 

Each scholarship recipient received $4,000, which was applied to their housing costs while living on campus. This initiative aligns with EOU’s commitment to being one of the most affordable universities in Oregon.  

Laylah Lucas, from Hermiston, is one of the scholarship recipients and has already made an impression at EOU. Double majoring in theater and music, she starred in “Dracula” shortly after enrolling.

Lucas aspires to be a performer, but also has plans for music education.

Ethan Cornia, also from Hermiston, is a trumpeter and a singer. He chose EOU because the University allowed him to earn a degree while staying close to his family. 

“I appreciate the supportive environment at EOU,” Cornia said. “The university and music program encourages us to grow as performers and these scholarships give us the chance to do just that.”

Maria Gomez of Milton-Freewater admitted she was very nervous during her scholarship audition but is now glad to be at on campus. Her new experiences have helped her hone her musical skills. 

McKenzie Jonas hails from rural Cook County and played the piano and sang during her audition. She came to EOU because she connected with the personalized learning and close-knit community.  

Programs like the Rural Arts Scholarship combined with resources from the EOU Foundation scholarships help alleviate financial pressures, serving as an investment in students’ lifelong development and success.

Anjelynn Baron, ’23, jumped at the opportunity to become a student mentor in GO-ASAP, the Get Outside-After School Activity Program, managed by EOU’s Rural Engagement & Vitality Center. As an aspiring elementary school gym teacher and currently attending EOU’s Master of Arts in Teaching program, Anjelynn saw GO-ASAP as the perfect platform to immerse herself in education and outdoor activities.

“I think this is a great program to spend time with students and help them experience outdoor activities,” Anjelynn said. “I am very grateful that EOU offers programs like this. It has really helped me develop as a teacher and as a person.”

GO-ASAP provides local middle school students opportunities to engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, paddle boarding, rock climbing, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. Established in 2016, GO-ASAP works with several organizations including the La Grande Middle School and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s recreation program.

Ŕ¶Ý®ĘÓƵ is dedicated to supporting students’ educational journeys and pathways to success. Early College Initiatives, part of the Office of Admissions, supports this commitment by helping make college more affordable and ensuring student success. 

La Grande High School senior Lana Emerson, who has taken voice lessons and participated in the Chamber Choir at EOU, shared how the opportunity to earn college credits in high school allowed her to gain valuable experience, and become a Mountaineer at the same time. 

“Taking dual credit courses has allowed me to experience life beyond high school, meet new people, and develop individual responsibility,” Emerson said.

The program also removes boundaries that have deterred students from pursuing higher education. 

“Regardless of their educational location, we want students to realize their goals of a college education,” Kathleen Brown, Associate Director of ECI, said. “Dual credit courses contribute directly to students’ EOU degrees, bringing them closer to their academic and career aspirations.”

     The initiative is driven by a vision to create  a model for university-school district collaborations. One of the key components of the initiative is the establishment of the EOU HUB at LHS. Part of EOU’s Early College Initiatives (ECI), this resource center provides students with information about EOU, from financial aid to career planning. Staffed by EOU admissions counselors and ECI staff, the HUB is designed to ease the transition from high school to college, particularly for first-generation students and those unfamiliar with the college application process.

   The partnership between EOU and LHS  includes a range of programs outside of the HUB, with activities aimed at supporting students and integrating the community:

• Lunch Buddies: EOU students mentor LHS students during lunch, offering guidance and support.
• Reading Tutors: Students from EOU help improve literacy skills.
• Oregon Teacher Pathways: Provides mentorship and hands-on experience for aspiring educators at LHS.
• Dual Enrollment: Allows LHS students to take college courses, earning credits while still in high school.
• Get Outside-After School Activity Program (GO-ASAP): Encourages middle school students to engage in outdoor activities, promoting physical and mental well-being.

The impact of this collaboration is measured by increasing LHS student enrollment at EOU, the significant changes in students’ lives, and community growth. 

     â€śWe are providing students with mentors and leaders from higher education right here   in our community,” Kelly Ryan, President of Ŕ¶Ý®ĘÓƵ said. “We want to help them envision a prosperous future here in La Grande and eastern Oregon with the goal of keeping them in the region.”

     One of the standout benefits of this work is the emphasis on dual credit opportunities through ECI. This program provides substantial financial advantages, allowing high school students to earn early college credits at a reduced cost, making higher education more affordable and less daunting.

 â€śIt’s about the relationship, the trust, the connection, the interest in who the student is,” George Mendoza, ’97, La Grande School District Superintendent said. “By removing barriers to higher education and providing continuous support, the partnership aims to help more students succeed.”

Greetings to our alumni, supporters, and friends. I hope you are energized by the amazing work of EOU students! My first year was inspiring, and witnessing the power of higher education to transform students continues to deepen my commitment to our sharedIn this issue, we focus on student success, a theme that captures the essence of our university’s impact. We bring you the narratives of remarkable students, each a reflection of determination, creativity, and resilience. These accounts are not just about their achievements but highlight the critical moments and challenges they’ve overcome, supported by the rich educational environment and our community spirit.

In this issue, we focus on student success, a theme that captures the essence of our university’s impact. We bring you the narratives of remarkable students, each a reflection of determination, creativity, and resilience. These accounts are not just about their achievements but highlight the critical moments and challenges they’ve overcome, supported by the rich educational environment and our community spirit.

EOU is a place where dreams grow, shaped by the opportunities and learning experiences we provide.

The stories in these pages are proof of the significant roleour university plays in guiding students toward their goals. From reaching new heights through unexpected journeys to enriching community connections, from academic triumphs to leadership in extracurricular activities, our students are making their mark, driven by the foundational values and knowledge gained at EOU.

I am appreciative of the collective effort it takes to create such moments of success. It’s clear that our alumni and supporters are pivotal to this journey. Your continuous support of our mission enables these stories of growth.

While celebrating these successes, we remember they began with a dream which, when nurtured by a community committed to unlocking potential and embracing possibilities, becomes a success for our students, our community, and our region.

Thank you for being a vital part of our ongoing story—here’s to a future filled with more achievements, growth, and success. One student at a time.

With gratitude,

Kelly A. Ryan, Ph.D.

President, Ŕ¶Ý®ĘÓƵ