Student Affairs
December 3, 2024
After a months-long national search, President Dr. Robert D. Kelly has named Dr. Alvin A. Sturdivant as the University of Portland’s inaugural Vice President for Student Affairs & Inclusive Excellence.
Awards and Rankings
November 21, 2024
This fall, the University of Portland marketing team of creative writers, designers, and videographers have earned a purple pride standing ovation after scoring nine Best of District VIII Awards from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).
Alumni
November 6, 2024
Today, the University of Portland community mourns the passing of Albert (Al) Corrado, ’55, ’01 Hon., who died at home October 8 surrounded by his wife, Sue, and his family.
College of Arts and Sciences
October 25, 2024
The gathering played host to college leaders from across the nation sharing collaborative insight about humanity, ethics, and the continuing mission of Catholic education in supporting student success.
Awards and Rankings
September 24, 2024
UP Ranks as a Top-3 Institution Among ‘Best Regional Universities–West’ for the Sixth Consecutive Year
Nursing
Awards and Rankings
September 18, 2024
Bolstered by a grant from the Cambia Health Foundation, University of Portland is leading the academic charge to improve the quality of life for those living with chronic illnesses.
President
September 11, 2024
Nine Catholic high schools in Oregon and Southwest Washington have signed up to participate in University of Portland’s new Moreau Pathway Program—a streamlined direct admissions process for qualified high school seniors.
Awards and Rankings
September 6, 2024
The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2025 Best Colleges in the U.S. rankings place University of Portland in stellar nationwide company with a #71 national ranking based on impactful student outcomes, a robust learning environment, and a commitment to campus-wide diversity.
Engineering
Awards and Rankings
August 30, 2024
University of Portland’s innovative new building brought home two Awards of Merit at the recent ‘2024 Regional Best Projects’ competition sponsored by Engineering News-Record Northwest.
Garaventa Center
August 27, 2024
In four decades of advocacy for earth democracy, anti-globalization, food sovereignty, and ecofeminism—Dr. Vandana Shiva has been dubbed the “Gandhi of grain,” named a 2003 Time Magazine “environmental hero,” and selected one of Forbes’ “seven most powerful women on the globe” in 2010.
Dundon-Berchtold Institute
College of Arts and Sciences
August 13, 2024
In a continuing effort to provide forward-looking instruction and career readiness opportunities for students, University of Portland will host a national conference on artificial intelligence for Catholic higher education institutions October 18-20, 2024 on the UP campus.
August 12, 2024
South Sudan’s representative to the United Nations and Venezuela’s former interim president visited the University of Portland campus on the evening of August 8 to headline the 2024 Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon (EMO) Collins Lecture—“Faith and Politics in a Divided World.”
Awards and Rankings
July 12, 2024
University of Portland undergraduate students will have more opportunities to conduct summer research in the sciences thanks to a three-year, $296,000 grant from the Sherman Fairchild Foundation.
Awards and Rankings
June 21, 2024
Money magazine’s analysis of ‘The Best Colleges in America—2024’ gave UP a 4.5-star rating out of 5, touting the Catholic, Holy Cross university’s professional schools, robust study abroad program, Division I athletics, and graduation rate.
Portland Magazine
June 21, 2024
A seasoned reporter reflects on his beginnings at UP’s newspaper.
Portland Magazine
June 21, 2024
A team of UP students is leveling up their studies with a nontraditional capstone project.
Awards and Rankings
June 20, 2024
UP recognized as one of 25 institutions nationwide committed to advancing leadership in pursuit of justice, equity, diversity and liberty.
June 10, 2024
University of Portland has been awarded a $150,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) to build engaged humanities curriculum, experiences and infrastructure that connect UP faculty and students with timely issues in the local community.
Awards and Rankings
Athletics
May 21, 2024
They chased. They flicked. They conquered. The University’s ultimate frisbee team—UPRoar—is caught up in the pandemonium of an NCAA Division III Women’s Ultimate Frisbee Championship.
Portland Magazine
May 20, 2024
UP alum Sam Mowe ’22 sat down with author David James Duncan to discuss life and his new book.
Portland Magazine
May 20, 2024
Frustrated by religious language, this spiritual seeker found peace in quiet.
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
Awards and Rankings
April 30, 2024
Four University of Portland graduates in the Class of 2024 join two recent UP alumni as recipients of Fulbright U.S. Student Program awards to serve as Fulbright English Teaching Assistants for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Portland Magazine
April 25, 2024
Steve Waters ’10 is back on The Bluff brewing beer and business.
Portland Magazine
April 25, 2024
Caryn Anderson ’97 won recognition as a 2023 Educator of the Year.
Portland Magazine
April 25, 2024
Advice from a national best-selling author on artificial intelligence in education and literature.
April 12, 2024
One month after the University’s Assistant Director of Institutional Research Adeya Powell, PhD, joined the State of Oregon’s Sexual Misconduct Survey Council, UP junior Julianna Pedone has accepted an appointment to the 23-member Council as a student representative.
Awards and Rankings
April 4, 2024
Three University of Portland students—Cade McDonald, Katie Newton and Anna Singley—are among 508 college students nationwide chosen to receive a prestigious Goldwater Scholarship for their achievements and future promise in STEM research fields.
Portland Magazine
March 28, 2024
UP cross country runners Matt Strangio and Laura Pellicoro are breaking records and defying expectations.
Portland Magazine
March 28, 2024
Fr. Richard Berg’s book—Scars: The Effects of Post-Traumatic Stress on Family, Relationships, and Work—has been adapted into a feature film.
Portland Magazine
March 28, 2024
Mike Burton ’71, ’74 wants the US to clear the bombs it left behind in Laos 50 years ago.
Performing and Fine Arts
March 27, 2024
UP sophomore Casey James delivered a first place singing performance at the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) Northwestern Regional competition in March.
March 25, 2024
UP Assistant Director of Institutional Research Adeya Powell, PhD, has been appointed to the State of Oregon’s Sexual Misconduct Survey Council — a 23-member body charged with developing a survey for college and university campuses to better understand campus climate and activities related to sexual misconduct.
Awards and Rankings
March 12, 2024
Collegiate Outcomes Data Charts UP’s Leadership for 10 Straight Years
English
Education
March 11, 2024
Secondary Education and English double major Claire Beaumont has achieved a University of Portland first: She is the first Pilot to receive a Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) from the U.S. Department of State.
Commencement
March 10, 2024
Kerry Alys Robinson, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, to serve as undergraduate commencement speaker; receive honorary degree
College of Arts and Sciences
Political Science
February 27, 2024
Julianna Pedone, a University of Portland junior Political Science and Global Affairs major from Gilroy, Calif., has been honored as a finalist for the prestigious Harry S. Truman Scholarship.
Portland Magazine
February 20, 2024
University of Portland athletics enters into the landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals with a focus on what’s best for the student athlete.
Performing and Fine Arts
February 14, 2024
University of Portland music majors Taylenne Ubieta Johnson and Brewer Williams sang their way to second place finishes at the Oregon-wide Cascade Chapter Classical Festival February 3-4 in downtown Portland. Both qualified for regionals in the singing competition staged annually by the by the National Association of Teachers of Singing.
Garaventa Center
February 12, 2024
We are pleased to announce former Congressman and UP alum Larry LaRocco as the featured speaker for The Mazzocco Lecture on Distributive Justice on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. LaRocco was the Congressional Representative for Idaho's 1st District (D) from 1991-95 and will present: "Do Right, Risk Consequences: Perspective on politics and life during an era of increased threats to democracy."
Awards and Rankings
Nursing
February 5, 2024
As part of a national effort to promote diversity and inclusivity in the field of nursing, University of Portland’s School of Nursing & Health Innovations (UPSONHI) is one of 10 programs awarded grant funding from the American Nurses Association (ANA) National Commission to Address Racism in Nursing.
President
January 29, 2024
University of Portland President Dr. Robert D. Kelly has been elected Chair of the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (The Alliance). Dr. Kelly brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the The Alliance’s Board of Trustees Chair role.
Portland Magazine
January 25, 2024
The story of an antique car and its ties to The Bluff continues to be written.
Portland Magazine
January 25, 2024
In September, Gloria Purvis spoke about racial justice as the 2023 Zahm Lecturer. She was last on The Bluff in 2022, when she was awarded an honorary doctorate from UP.
Engineering
January 22, 2024
The $40 Million Shiley-Marcos Center for Design & Innovation Opens as a Collaborative Space to Spur Creativity and Hands-On Education.
Portland Magazine
December 12, 2023
UP alum Kyle Bunch ’09, ’11 believes that making a positive impact in the lives of others is as simple as showing up.
Portland Magazine
December 8, 2023
For Fulbright Scholar Lauren Banks '23, the love of Mycology is in her roots.
Portland Magazine
December 8, 2023
A team of UP researchers is measuring Eliot Glacier on Mt. Hood. Understanding how fast it's melting will help agriculture in the valley below prepare for the future.
Athletics
December 6, 2023
University of Portland athletics posted a 95 percent student-athlete Graduation Success Rate (GSR) according to the latest data released by the NCAA on Wednesday up from the 93 percent the previous two years.
Portland Magazine
November 21, 2023
Alums and current students traveled all over Portland with the Original Practice Shakespeare Festival.
Portland Magazine
November 10, 2023
Rip City Remix brings a beloved Pilot—Pooh Jeter—back to The Bluff. His return to Chiles comes with a treasure trove of memories.
Biology
November 2, 2023
UP junior biology major Angel Dulay delivered the “Best Undergraduate Research Poster” in the Life Sciences – Genetics category at the 2023 Society of the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) National Diversity in STEM Conference.
Portland Magazine
October 23, 2023
Jo Cecilio '11 returns to The Bluff to lead the Moreau Center for Service and Justice.
Portland Magazine
October 23, 2023
After the tourists go home, a museum's collection tells its own story.
Portland Magazine
October 23, 2023
UP explores the impact of AI tools on education and beyond.
Nursing
Awards and Rankings
September 20, 2023
The Congregation of Holy Cross, United States Province of Priests and Brothers has honored University of Portland Assistant Professor Kelly Fox with a 2023 Spirit of Holy Cross Award, conferred upon lay collaborators in the U.S. and abroad who “make God known, loved, and served” in education, parish and mission settings.
Awards and Rankings
September 18, 2023
For the fifth consecutive year, University of Portland has been ranked as a top three university in the Western Region by U.S. News & World Report. The magazine’s 2023-24 rankings, released today, rank UP #2 among “Best Regional Universities – West.”
Portland Magazine
September 14, 2023
Denver Backus '23 is working to help communities grow their own healthy produce.
Portland Magazine
September 13, 2023
Carling León '13 '17 believes Corporate Social Responsibility can attract fresh talent and help a business's bottom line.
Portland Magazine
September 13, 2023
University of Portland's new boathouse on the Willamette River is a turning point for the Pilots' rowing program.
Campus Ministry
September 8, 2023
Two members of the University of Portland community were among a group of 10 Holy Cross religious who professed their final vows on August 26 at a Mass held at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at the University of Notre Dame.
Communication Studies
September 8, 2023
Kimberly Cortez, DEI editor of The Beacon, UP's student newspaper, has been selected by The New York Times as a mentee in a program to prepare student journalists for professional careers.
Nursing
August 30, 2023
The Administrative Requirements for Clinical Training Advisory Committee (ARCTAC) committee of the Oregon Health Authority will review and modernize rules related to clinicals and clinical compliance for all clinical training programs in Oregon, including medical, nursing, and all the allied health programs.
Theology
August 30, 2023
Her election to this position makes her one of only 10 women to serve as Vice President/President Elect in the CBA's 87-year history.
Awards and Rankings
August 23, 2023
Latest UP Honor Continues Accolades as New 2023-24 Academic Year Begins.
Portland Magazine
August 10, 2023
A meditation on failure—its humbling persistence, its lessons, its (sometimes) astonishing beauty.
Portland Magazine
August 4, 2023
Ryan Darmody ’97 returns to The Bluff to lead UP's PACE program.
Portland Magazine
August 4, 2023
A new class on vocal technique and its health benefits—for the singer and non-singer alike.
Biology
August 3, 2023
Latest Major Award Lifts UP College of Arts and Sciences Over the $2.5 Million Mark in Grant Funding Since 2022.
Education
August 2, 2023
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has appointed Katie Danielson, PhD, assistant professor in UP’s School of Education, to the state’s Early Literacy Educator Preparation Council. In an August 1 announcement, the state billed the new council as “part of a long-term effort to boost reading and writing proficiency across Oregon.”
Portland Magazine
July 27, 2023
An undergraduate researcher started to ask questions about the experiences of Japanese Americans after their incarceration on US soil during WWII. These “stories of return” are largely missing from the history books. She decided to do something about that.
Portland Magazine
Performing and Fine Arts
July 25, 2023
The story of an instrument and two of its makers, more than a century apart.
Portland Magazine
July 25, 2023
For one collector, set lists are a gateway to the good vibrations of the past.
President
July 17, 2023
UP President, Dr. Robert Kelly, has been appointed as a trustee to the board of the University of St. Thomas.
Business
July 14, 2023
On June 16, the Oregon Senate approved Governor Kotek’s appointment of Dr. Michael DeVaughn to the Port of Portland Commission.
Athletics
Alumni
July 13, 2023
After a storied career spanning two decades, Rapinoe leaves a venerable legacy as an icon of women’s soccer.
Awards and Rankings
June 30, 2023
Citing its high graduation rate, strong science and engineering programs, and idyllic campus, Money named the University of Portland among its Best Colleges in the US for 2023.
President
Admissions
June 29, 2023
Upon the conclusion of a competitive search process, we are thrilled to announce the appointment of Matthew B. Deschner as Dean of Admissions.
Human Resources
President
June 29, 2023
Upon the conclusion of a national search that attracted an exceptionally talented and diverse array of candidates, we are thrilled to announce the appointment of Mai Nhia Xiong-Chan as Vice President for Enrollment Management.
Engineering
Portland Magazine
June 1, 2023
When Khalid Osman ’16 isn’t teaching engineering classes at Stanford University, he works on issues around water equity.
College of Arts and Sciences
June 1, 2023
Mo Briare ’92, ’04 has been a nurse, a musician, and a composer of sacred music. Now she’s teaching nursing students to use music for the health of their patients and for their own health, too.
May 23, 2023
The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges & Universities’ members generated an annual economic impact to the state of Oregon of $3.5 billion during Fiscal Year 2020-21, according to a new report by Lightcast. Additionally, students’ average annual rate of return is 12.5%.
Human Resources
History
May 12, 2023
Upon the conclusion of a national search that attracted an exceptionally talented and diverse array of candidates, we are thrilled to announce my appointment of Dr. David C. Mengel as the next Provost of the University of Portland.
Portland Magazine
May 1, 2023
Nate Lynch ’19 likes that when he's mountaineering, his mind can't wander. He has to focus only on what’s in front of him: the next step, the next move.
Portland Magazine
May 1, 2023
Sometimes the struggle to attend Sunday Mass is real. And yet the peace he finds there still draws him in.
Portland Magazine
May 1, 2023
Maunakea is one of the most recognizable landmarks to my ancestors—my kupuna—who ventured to the Hawaiian Islands centuries ago.
Portland Magazine
May 1, 2023
My steps quickened as I left the Commons and bypassed the chapel toward my favorite spot, the bench on the south side of campus that looks out over the Willamette River. I was looking forward to precious time alone with my Creator.
Athletics
April 26, 2023
The Portland Trail Blazers and the NBA G League today announced that the Trail Blazers have acquired the right to own and operate an NBA G League team that will launch in the Chiles Center on the University of Portland's campus.
Awards and Rankings
April 25, 2023
University of Portland Senior Lauren Banks has been selected to receive a Fulbright U.S. Student Program award to advance her Environmental Sciences studies in France for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 academic years.
Commencement
April 5, 2023
Ari Shapiro, weekday co-host of NPR’s award-winning All Things Considered, returns to Portland as UP Commencement Speaker, Honorary Degree recipient
Development
Alumni
April 4, 2023
Advancing the legacy and the enduring impact he created alongside his late wife, Amy Dundon-Berchtold, University of Portland (UP) alumnus Jim Berchtold ’63 has announced an $18 million dollar estate gift that will primarily fund scholarships and tuition assistance for future UP students.
Portland Magazine
April 1, 2023
We don't think it's a stretch to say our libraries—and the librarians who run them—are the backbone of a free and functioning democracy.
Portland Magazine
April 1, 2023
A pair of silver ears frame the path, and my gloved hands grip nubbled reins. Beams of autumn sun slant through golden leaves. A click and a nudge and we are trotting.
Portland Magazine
April 1, 2023
With characteristic humility and trust, Sr. Angela Hoffman, PhD, leaves UP for a new chapter as prioress of her Benedictine community.
Portland Magazine
April 1, 2023
During the early days of Covid, Major Maribel Ortega de Pacheco’s eldest son asked why she couldn’t stay home with him for online kindergarten. Maribel told him that she was “a boss” at work and had to go in.
Human Resources
March 14, 2023
After a national search, the University of Portland has named Tshombé Brown its first Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Athletics
March 7, 2023
For the third time in program history and the second time in four seasons, the Portland Pilots won the 2023 University Credit Union West Coast Conference Tournament Championship 64-60 over the Gonzaga Bulldogs.
Nursing
Awards and Rankings
March 6, 2023
Strengthening a bond that traces back to its founding 71 years ago, Blanchet House has selected University of Portland’s School of Nursing & Health Innovations (UPSONHI) as the recipient of its 2023 Service Award.
Awards and Rankings
March 2, 2023
COVID-19 health precautions kept Jasmine Yee and her Class of 2024 from getting the full, in-person experience when they joined the University of Portland community in the fall of 2020. But after navigating that first year of online learning, Yee has been virtually unstoppable ever since—an inspiring force of caring and creativity on The Bluff.
Portland Magazine
March 1, 2023
In October, University of Portland’s Theater Department presented a workshop reading of its first commissioned play, Claire Willett’s How Can I Keep from Singing?
Portland Magazine
March 1, 2023
Thanks to a $404,000 grant from the NIH, Susan Murray, Associate Professor of Biology, will be leading students on a three-year research project.
Portland Magazine
March 1, 2023
When Columbia Pool—North Portland’s only indoor public pool—closed its doors in 2020, a group of UP researchers set out to understand the pool’s context and history—its story.
February 24, 2023
Due to inclement weather, University of Portland will reman closed until Sunday, February 26 at noon, though a few limited events will proceed. We will re-evaluate on Sunday morning, but we expect the University to be fully open for business next week and that in-person classes will resume on Monday, February 27.
Portland Magazine
February 22, 2023
I wanted to send a shout-out to 2020 BSN graduate Valerie Chen. She joined the Labor and Delivery floor at PeaceHealth at RiverBend in Springfield, OR, at the beginning of the pandemic and has become a dynamic addition to the team.
Portland Magazine
February 22, 2023
This issue of Portland magazine organically grew into one about the places that make us who we are. University of Portland may very well be one of those places for you. The nature of the connections—sometimes intentional, sometimes full of mystery—that are forged in these holy places are worth examining and cherishing. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed pulling it together.
Portland Magazine
February 22, 2023
Portland’s most sustainable building is a feat of engineering that inspires hope, even awe. And two UP engineering alums helped usher it into existence.
Portland Magazine
February 22, 2023
A few years ago, after my wife and I married and had our first kid, we bought the house I grew up in. I think of this house as a sacred space.
Portland Magazine
February 22, 2023
Alan Herald ’68 maintains a sense of equilibrium by staying connected with the natural world. He took the awe-inspiring photo above on a private pilgrimage to Mount Rainier National Park.
Awards and Rankings
February 20, 2023
Two years after University of Portland joined the Lilly Network of Church-Related Colleges and Universities, two faculty members are the first on the UP campus to be awarded Lilly Faculty Fellowships.
Awards and Rankings
January 19, 2023
The Congregation of Holy Cross, United States Province has honored Interim Provost Dr. Elise Moentmann for her service as a lay collaborator in the University of Portland community with a 2023 Spirit of Holy Cross Award.
Portland Magazine
January 1, 2023
With a raft of state-of-the-art technology, the E. L. Wiegand Environmental Laboratory will offer students unique research opportunities and supercharge UP’s Environmental Studies program.
January 1, 2023
Emmanuel Aquino ’13 received a 2022 Educator of the Year award for grades 6–8 from OnPoint Community Credit Union. He attributes his success to his time at UP and the School of Education.
Portland Magazine
January 1, 2023
This past summer the Buckley Center Gallery presented “Facing You,” a retrospective exhibit of artist Reed Clarke’s oil paintings.
Chemistry
Awards and Rankings
Physics
December 20, 2022
National Science Foundation grant aims to strengthen STEM identities through scientific research.
Portland Magazine
December 1, 2022
Dean’s Beauty Salon and Barber Shop was recently placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Founded by the parents of UP Regent and alum Kay Dean Toran, this business and its staying power tell a story about Black history—and Black success—in Portland.
Portland Magazine
December 1, 2022
Jesi Robison ’21 nabbed a dream job before she even graduated—working on Guillermo Del Toro’s stop motion animated film of the beloved children’s story Pinocchio.
Portland Magazine
December 1, 2022
Through the Moreau Center's Interns for Justice program, Anaís Larios-Maldonado '24 returned to the Oregon Child Development Coalition, a program she'd attended as a child.
Biology
November 22, 2022
University of Portland students, under the guidance of UP Biology Professor Susan Murray, PhD, will research the role of sex hormones in immune responses to prostate cancer through a $404,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Athletics
November 21, 2022
The University of Portland has been announced as the host institution for the 2030 Division I NCAA Women’s Basketball Final Four, as announced by the NCAA this morning. The University of Portland will host the event in partnership with the Portland Trail Blazers/Rose Quarter, Sport Oregon and Travel Portland.
November 18, 2022
A 15-month collaboration of students, faculty and staff has led to the grand opening of a new Diversity Center in the heart of the University of Portland campus. Located on the first floor of Buckley Center, the 1,300-square foot Diversity Center — triple the size of the previous space — offers a welcoming, inclusive venue for people of all backgrounds to gather, study and engage with each other.
Engineering
Awards and Rankings
November 1, 2022
The University of Portland will play a key role in giving K-12 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) teachers more support and professional development through a multi-institution, $4.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Portland Magazine
October 24, 2022
In early September, Walter Thompson-Hernández ’09 returned to The Bluff for the first time in more than 10 years to share his short film—If I Go Will They Miss Me—for which he won a 2022 Sundance award. It is currently being adapted into a feature.
Portland Magazine
Athletics
October 24, 2022
How has UP's Merlo Field twice been named the best soccer field in the country? Through the meticulous care and devotion of Kevin White.
Portland Magazine
October 24, 2022
How an early struggle with words—along with two heroic reading specialists—paved the way for a young educator’s teaching philosophy.
Portland Magazine
October 19, 2022
As Fr. Charlie Gordon departs University of Portland for a new assignment abroad, he takes a moment to reflect on the contents of his steamer trunk and how they link him to family, memory, and faith.
Athletics
Portland Magazine
October 19, 2022
Filip Zivkovic ’10 transferred to UP as an undergraduate tennis player sixteen years ago and never left. As the new head coach of the women’s tennis team, he hopes to create the same sense of community and hospitality for his players that he has found here, first as a player, then as an assistant coach, and now at the helm of a team.
Portland Magazine
October 17, 2022
This summer, fifteen University of Portland faculty members embarked on a pilgrimage to the Basse-Normandie region of France. Their goal? A deeper connection to the school’s Holy Cross roots, including the order’s abiding commitment to community.
Portland Magazine
October 17, 2022
Robert D. Kelly, UP’s 21st president, comes to the role with faith, experience, and hope for transformation.
Awards and Rankings
October 12, 2022
University of Portland President Dr. Robert Kelly has been selected by the Aspen Institute as a Senior Impact Fellow. The Impact Fellowship brings together more than 90 community stakeholders in the U.S. — college presidents, senior leaders, educators and youth — “in a movement to advance the future of youth leadership development.”
Awards and Rankings
September 12, 2022
Top Position for 2022-23 Continues Multi-Decade Streak of Prestigious Recognition
Engineering
September 8, 2022
Construction Will Enhance Iconic Campus on “The Bluff” Overlooking the Willamette River
Athletics
August 23, 2022
University of Portland Vice President for Athletics Scott Leykam will serve as the NCAA Women's Soccer Committee Chair for the 2022-23 Academic Year.
Business
Awards and Rankings
August 12, 2022
The Pamplin School of Business at University of Portland continues to rank among the best part-time MBA programs, earning accolades for its flexible graduate programs.
Engineering
July 23, 2022
As our students and faculty prepare to arrive on the University of Portland campus to begin the 2022-23 academic year, we want to make you aware of a construction project that will bring temporary changes – and ultimately a new center for design and innovation – to our beautiful Bluff.
Athletics
July 1, 2022
University of Portland alumnus Megan Rapinoe will be presented with the nation's highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, by Joe Biden in a ceremony on July 7.
Education
June 23, 2022
Supported by a $35,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities, University of Portland professors Dr. Molly Hiro and Dr. Jen McDaneld have embarked on a mission to change the way students connect with the community through engaged study in the humanities.
Portland Magazine
June 1, 2022
For years Brad Franco, chair of UP’s history department, had wanted to make a map of Portland. How fortuitous, then, that the Admissions team asked him to jump in and give it a try. They wanted a map to send to prospective students, one that highlighted the city’s neighborhoods, its parks, its famous food scene, and other cultural institutions—all the fun things that were waiting for them here.
Portland Magazine
June 1, 2022
A new building dedicated to the memory of a father and in service of UP’s talented Facilities Services Department.
Portland Magazine
June 1, 2022
(Re)claiming Black joy was the theme of UP’s 2022 Martin Luther King Jr. Day observance, but what does it mean to reclaim Black joy? What does it look like? How do we create spaces for Black joy to thrive?
Portland Magazine
Alumni
June 1, 2022
While scrambling to find toilet paper during the first March of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sarah Mooney ’96 received a call from her program director. He gave her the classic, anxiety-inducing phrase: “I’ve got good news and I’ve got bad news.” The good news was that she won the 2019 Correctional Services Contractor of the Year award for the GED tutoring program she manages. The bad news was that she could no longer go to work. Columbia River Correctional Facility was on lockdown.
Portland Magazine
June 1, 2022
I like to imagine you holding this little magazine—the University’s message in a bottle—and wondering over the cover. What in the world is this magical creature?
Portland Magazine
Biology
Environmental Studies
June 1, 2022
The Oregon coast offers an of embarrassment of marine-life riches.
Portland Magazine
Environmental Studies
Biology
June 1, 2022
Tips from a marine biologist on how best to enjoy, protect, and explore Oregon's coast.
Commencement
Portland Magazine
Alumni
June 1, 2022
At this year’s Commencement, Kunal Nayyar—UP alum from the class of 2003 and professional actor known best for his role in the sitcom The Big Bang Theory—addressed the graduates of 2022. He told them that anything is possible, and he was so funny, warm, and charming that it was hard not to believe him. What follows is a lightly edited excerpt of his speech.
Portland Magazine
June 1, 2022
On the surprising places you can find yourself while walking a labyrinth.
Portland Magazine
June 1, 2022
Delivering medical supplies to Ukraine renewed her faith in humanity
Commencement
May 6, 2022
Over the April 30–May 1 weekend, the University of Portland community gathered at the Chiles Center to honor its graduating class of 2022. It marked the University’s first in-person commencement ceremonies since 2019, following virtual ceremonies in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic precautions.
Portland Magazine
May 1, 2022
After a rigorous nation-wide search, University of Portland announced that Rob Kelly, PhD, will be UP’s 21st president, starting his term on July 1, 2022.
Portland Magazine
May 1, 2022
Mauricio Paz ’22 goes home to southern Oregon during school breaks to work in the vineyards with his family members. A pre-med biology and Spanish double-major, he isn’t afraid of hard work in the fields or in the classroom.
Portland Magazine
May 1, 2022
On the communal steps of the Ganges River in Varanasi, India, people take care of all kinds of business. Certain days are for laundry. I watched three women wrestling with an eighteen-meter-long sari in a stiff breeze, the multicolored fabric flapping and dancing in billows. They were ironing with the wind, and laughing all the while.
President
April 26, 2022
Dr. Robert Kelly Becomes First Lay President and African American to Lead the Catholic Institution in Its 121-Year History
Portland Magazine
April 1, 2022
Where the author sees God in this “beautiful and broken world of ours.”
Commencement
March 17, 2022
Following back-to-back years (2020, 2021) of virtual commencement ceremonies due to COVID-19 pandemic precautions, the University of Portland (UP) has announced plans to honor its graduating Class of 2022 with the school’s first in-person commencement since 2019.
Portland Magazine
March 1, 2022
UP’s new men’s basketball coach has high hopes
Portland Magazine
March 1, 2022
The Oregon Historical Society honors the institution’s contributions to Portland
Portland Magazine
March 1, 2022
Danie Baker '11 and Brett Bankson '15 never saw cooking—or television—in the cards for their careers. But then Top Chef Amateurs came calling.
Portland Magazine
February 21, 2022
The photographer and I stood outside the church with the pastor and his wife, hoping to get the best light for a portrait. The pastor was somewhat new in the rapidly changing neighborhood, and we’d been talking to him for a story in part about gentrification in North Portland and his role and response to the changes affecting his parishioners.
Portland Magazine
February 21, 2022
When we were first put under quarantine in early 2020, Tori Ward ’16 was afraid to go outside for a long time. A quick trip to the grocery store was anxiety inducing, and seeing people outside en masse without their masks on made her feel unsafe. She hated the feeling and wanted to find a way to still stay healthy and active while also being able to stay socially distanced. That's when she found a pair of skates, and has been skating since early May 2020 and loving it.
Portland Magazine
February 21, 2022
For the span of her career Ami Ahern-Rindell has been working to understand—and eventually contribute to a cure for—a particular fatal genetic disease. Advances in science and technology are bringing her research closer to her goal. But the technology—CRISPR gene editing, specifically—raises a whole host of ethical questions.
Portland Magazine
February 21, 2022
The inspiration behind one UP alum’s pitch for more research into a rare genetic disease and potential gene therapies.
Pilots Prevent
February 8, 2022
For the second year in a row, the start of Spring semester didn’t exactly look like it usually does. This year, classes were remote for the first two weeks to minimize the transmission of COVID as students returned to campus after winter break. But now case numbers are falling dramatically, and fun events are in full swing, bringing a sense of normalcy to campus.
Pilots Prevent
February 8, 2022
After Omicron caused a meteoric surge in COVID-19 this winter, cases are finally tapering off. And most of us are vaccinated, and boosted, offering loads of protection against COVID’s worst effects (at least for the current variants). The Oregon Health Authority even announced plans to lift the indoor mask mandate by the end of March, letting businesses and communities set their own mandates as they see fit. So it seems things might soon look a lot more normal.
Awards and Rankings
Nursing
January 31, 2022
Andra Davis, PhD will lead development of a Regional Model of Excellence in Palliative Care Education focused on schools in Idaho, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. Funded through Cambia Health Foundation, the End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium (ELNEC) at the City of Hope, received a three-year grant which began in August 2021, totaling $420,000, to advance its work strengthening the nursing workforce in the care of patients and families living with serious illness.
Engineering
Awards and Rankings
January 31, 2022
Jordy Wolfand, Professor in Civil Engineering in the Shiley School of Engineering, in partnership with Portland State University and Utah State University, was awarded a National Science Foundation sub-award grant to focus on the Microplastic Cycle Across the Columbia River Basin to the Ocean.
Awards and Rankings
Engineering
Education
January 31, 2022
Nicole Ralston, College of Education; Tim Doughty, School of Engineering; and Heather Dillon at the University of Washington Tacoma, were awarded a four-year grant from the Kern Family Foundation related to the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network (KEEN network) which is a community of more than 3,000 engineering faculty and staff across North America who aim to graduate engineers with an entrepreneurial mindset (EM).
Portland Magazine
January 28, 2022
We asked you what you've been making during the pandemic and you didn't disappoint. Check out some of the inspiring things UP faculty, staff, professors, students, and alumni have created over the last two years.
January 28, 2022
Research proves that wearing a mask is one of the best defenses against contracting or spreading the COVID-19 virus. And since the Omicron variant is highly transmissible, it’s more important than ever to mask up in indoor public spaces or crowded outdoor spaces, even if you’re vaccinated and boosted. But the type of mask you wear, how you wear it, and how you take care of it are all important factors too.
Pilots Prevent
January 25, 2022
It’s easy to dismiss healthy habits as something we “should” do but don’t “have” to do. So, we put them off. We’ll eat more healthfully tomorrow, start that exercise routine next week, catch up on our sleep later when there’s not so much to do.
Pilots Prevent
January 25, 2022
Have questions about complying with University of Portland’s booster requirement? We have answers. Check out our list of frequently asked questions.
Pilots Prevent
January 25, 2022
When it comes to protocols for quarantine and isolation, UP follows CDC and Multnomah County Health Authority guidance. But since residential college campuses offer more close contact between people, they’re also a higher-risk setting. That’s why UP also follows guidance from the American College Health Association in determining its quarantine and isolation protocols.
Pilots Prevent
January 11, 2022
The number of positive tests, hospitalizations, and rapid-spread infections bear it out: the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is a game-changer in the ongoing battle against the pandemic. Though viewed as less dangerous overall than the earlier Delta variant, Omicron brings with it a higher level of challenges.
Awards and Rankings
College of Arts and Sciences
January 1, 2022
In summer 2021, the Department of Biology in the College of Arts and Sciences won a $36,000 Faculty Start-Up Grant from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust. This is the sixth Murdock Trust Faculty Start-Up grant won by the College of Arts and Sciences since 2017.
Portland Magazine
January 1, 2022
University of Portland professor, Blair Woodard, shares observations of the art and resilience along the US–Mexico border, also known as La Línea.
Portland Magazine
January 1, 2022
Hector Mendoza, UP’s new campus minister for liturgical music, started his musical journey when he was only a child. By the age of seven, he was already performing percussion in the Venezuelan ensemble “El Sistema.”
Pilots Prevent
December 7, 2021
Have you received your vaccine booster shot? Have you uploaded your most recent booster shot?
Pilots Prevent
December 7, 2021
In general, COVID-19 booster shots are available wherever the vaccine is offered, such as pharmacies, clinics, and doctors’ offices. UP’s Health and Resource Center has compiled this list of resources to help you find one that’s convenient to you.
Pilots Prevent
December 7, 2021
University of Portland’s director of Campus Ministry reflects on the holiday season—our second Christmas of the COVID-era—and offers advice for finding restoration and rejuvenation during winter break.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
December 6, 2021
Danny McGarry '17 shares his favorite winter drink and the memories that go along with it as part of University of Portland's 25 Days 'til Christmas.
Athletics
Portland Magazine
December 1, 2021
WHEN LUIS ROBLES ’06 decided to retire from professional soccer after 14 seasons, he didn’t plan to tell anyone. He knew he was done the moment he’d broken his arm while playing for Inter Miami; why make a big deal out of it? He figured he’d just step back.
Portland Magazine
Athletics
December 1, 2021
UP’s legendary coach Clive Charles had a gift for offering small gestures that mattered to people, that still matter, even years after his passing. A former English football player, a defender for the Portland Timbers, the coach who led the Pilots to their first NCAA Championship during his 1986 to 2002 tenure, Charles mentored his athletes to achieve their maximum potential. Several made it to the highest levels of the sport. They became pro athletes, Olympians, World Cup winners. But even more than his successes on the field, his true legacy seems to come from how he treated people.
Portland Magazine
Admissions
December 1, 2021
Every fall, as students are settling in to new routines on campus, Cassy Esparza ’14, assistant director of admissions, hits the road in search of next year’s class. Her recruitment regions are Oregon, Utah, and New Mexico, and it’s not unheard of for her to have a day like she had a few weeks ago: visits with students at four different high schools in Albuquerque, then an hour-plus drive to Santa Fe for an evening meeting with students and parents. (She tries to remember to eat.) These trips involve long days and lots of miles, but the relationships she is building and the inroads she is making with students from historically marginalized populations make everything worth it.
Pilots Prevent
November 30, 2021
University of Portland’s School of Education has always made field experience a top priority. Beginning with their first year in the program, students spend time in K-8 classrooms around the region, observing the teaching process, getting ready for their senior year when they work with mentors as student-teachers in a classroom.
Portland Magazine
November 24, 2021
Artist and author Makoto Fujimura visited University of Portland (via Zoom, from his studio in Princeton, NJ) in early September to give the Zahm lecture, an annual talk on faith and reason. Days later, on September 11, 2021, Fujimura relaunched the Kintsugi Academy, which he co-founded as a way to commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9/11, an event that gave his work new focus. What follows is an excerpt of Fujimura’s remarks.
Portland Magazine
November 24, 2021
On a race track in Wilsonville, Oregon, six University of Portland engineering students—otherwise known as the Pilot Speed Racing Team—stepped into their go-karts, strapped on their helmets, turned the ignitions, and approached the starting line, motors rumbling. The air smelled of gas and burning rubber. The flag rose. And they were off.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
November 24, 2021
For Ryan Szto ’21, the joy of engineering begins with the simple notion of being in the field. “I hated sitting behind a desk at school,” he says, “so I didn’t want to do that at work.” Ryan is a product validation engineer at Daimler, a truck manufacturer, whose offices are ten minutes away from campus. There, Ryan is working in the growing field of Daimler’s electric-powered semi-trucks.
Pilots Prevent
November 23, 2021
Many campus services have shortened hours this week, but students staying on campus will still have access to dining services, and Campus Security is always available 24/7. And if you’re looking for something to do with other students, check with your residence hall staff to see what events and festivities are planned.
Pilots Prevent
November 23, 2021
Here at UP, Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday for feasting, it’s a state of mind — a feeling of gratitude we strive for every day of the year. We recently asked members of the UP community what they’re thankful for. Here are some of the responses we received.
Pilots Prevent
November 23, 2021
Hands-on experience is a key component of a University of Portland education, and even though COVID-19 has limited some of the field experience opportunities usually available to students, by the same token it has opened up some surprising new avenues for growth and development.
Pilots Prevent
November 16, 2021
As students approach the end of fall semester, many are likely feeling a bit anxious about their upcoming exams. It doesn't help that we're all struggling with COVID anxiety too. So, we spoke with Brother Tom Giumenta, UP’s resident expert on study skills and a learning assistance counselor in the Shepard Academic Resource Center, to get his insights on how to get through these final weeks without letting the stress win.
Pilots Prevent
November 16, 2021
If you’ve ever taken a rapid COVID test, you’ve likely experienced “second line anxiety.” That’s the fear and trepidation you feel as you wait to see if the second line appears on the stick, the one that indicates the test is positive. Everyone dreads the second line.
Pilots Prevent
November 9, 2021
The days are getting shorter as we march toward winter, and that means we have to make a concerted effort to stave off the winter doldrums. Seasonal Affective Disorder is no joke, but there are ways to minimize its impact. We asked Andrew Downs, professor of Psychological Sciences, for his advice on proactively protecting our mental health this winter.
Pilots Prevent
November 9, 2021
At the beginning of the pandemic, no one was surprised to learn we’d have to wear a mask in public spaces (although few of us likely guessed we’d still need to do so almost two years later). But how many of us could have predicted that the pandemic would give many folks the time and space to really listen—to each other, to ourselves, and to the voices that have been calling for justice, equity, and inclusion for generations.
Pilots Prevent
November 9, 2021
With the onset of COVID-19 and subsequent restrictions, some services at UP’s Health & Counseling Center (HCC) have been altered, but the events of the last year-and-half have only bolstered HCC’s mission to provide inclusive, compassionate care to UP students. Staff have turned the HCC website into a great resource for COVID-19 info, and have provided some new mental health services for Fall 2021 Semester and beyond.
Pilots Prevent
November 2, 2021
The temperatures have dropped and we’re all spending a lot more time indoors. That means, you guessed it, cold and flu season is here. But with the COVID-19 pandemic still in play, this isn’t the usual season of sniffles. Every cough, every achy muscle can feel like cause for alarm. We asked Miko Hoy, a registered nurse at UP’s Health and Counseling Center, to give us some insights and advice for keeping the worries, and germs, at bay.
Pilots Prevent
November 2, 2021
As we approach the holidays, a season of giving thanks, our thoughts also turn to giving back. Our communities need more help than ever, whether it’s our neighbors down the street or the many global communities we belong to as citizens of the world. If you’re not sure where to start, what opportunities are available, and how to serve safely, UP’s Moreau Center for Service and Justice can lead the way.
Pilots Prevent
October 26, 2021
After an exciting return to in-person soccer games at Merlo Field this fall, everyone’s looking ahead to another season of sports this winter, starting with men’s and women’s basketball in the Chiles Center. Games are indoors (and blessedly warm and rain-free), but that might have you wondering about COVID protocols inside the arena. We caught up with Jason Brough, senior associate athletic director, to find out what we need to know before we go.
Pilots Prevent
October 26, 2021
For little kids, Halloween is all about the candy. For college students, well, it’s still about the candy, but more so about the parties. It’s a time to dress up (maybe) and blow off steam (for sure) and take a break from the rigors of academics for a while. But with parties come an assortment of potential risks, so we asked James Peña, Wellness Education & Prevention Programs coordinator, to offer some words of advice.
Pilots Prevent
October 26, 2021
There’s no way around it—competing in college sports requires participating in a litany of COVID-19 no-nos: Hours of close contact with a lot of other people, repeatedly touching shared surfaces, traveling to and from different cities and states—sometimes alongside the general public. To say that navigating the pandemic hasn’t been easy for the UP Athletics department and its student-athletes is an understatement. We asked VP for Athletics Scott Leykam to give us some insights on the challenges.
Pilots Prevent
October 19, 2021
Although summer seems like eons away, now is the perfect time for students to start thinking about what jobs and internships they might want to have when the school year is over. Just carving out a little time now to take some small steps can have a big payoff in spring when applications are due. But if you’re feeling like you don’t know where to start and are confused about how the pandemic has affected the job search landscape, we’ve got the answer: UP’s Career Education Center.
Pilots Prevent
October 19, 2021
From virtually the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic nearly two years ago, there has been one constant in our defense against the virus—facemasks and face coverings. When correctly used alongside vaccinations, safe social distancing, hand sanitizing and other precautions, masks are the most influential force for mitigating the spread of the deadliest infection in recent memory.
Pilots Prevent
October 12, 2021
If there was any silver lining to the COVID-19 shutdown in early 2020, it’s that many people found themselves with a lot more time on their hands. With events canceled and commutes measured in steps rather than miles, people found themselves with more time to reassess their priorities and open themselves up to a new world of possibilities.
October 12, 2021
We checked in with the student government leader to find out some of the challenges that students face today, and hear her plans for the future.
Pilots Prevent
October 12, 2021
For so long, we anticipated what it would be like to return to campus and be together again this fall. We embraced the excitement with the uncertainty, the joy with the bittersweet, and here we are, midway through the semester already.
Pilots Prevent
October 12, 2021
It seems like not that long ago we were all lining up to get our COVID-19 vaccines. Now, for many people, it’s already time to get a booster shot. You might be wondering why it’s necessary, who is supposed to get one, and what the effects might be. So, we asked Kaylin Soldat, associate director for primary care at UP’s Health and Counseling Center to give us some insights.
Pilots Prevent
October 5, 2021
Although Campus Safety and the Health and Counseling Center will maintain their regular hours, many other buildings and services around campus will be closed or have limited hours. Check this list of updated hours before venturing to the gym, library, or dining hall.
Pilots Prevent
October 5, 2021
Summer may get all the love, but locals know that nothing beats October in Oregon. The air is crisp and cool, the leaves are turning glorious shades of red and gold, and the rains haven’t yet set in for the long haul. That’s why, when fall break arrives the week of October 11, there’s no better time to get outside and enjoy all that the state has to offer.
Pilots Prevent
October 5, 2021
Do you have travel plans for Fall Break? If you’re going by plane, be sure to plan ahead. Flying can be exciting (and sometimes stressful) even in the best of times. With COVID restrictions and Portland International Airport (PDX) under construction, navigating the airport can be tricky. We’ve compiled the most important tips to help make your travels as smooth as possible.
Pilots Prevent
September 28, 2021
After more than a year of remote learning, it’s been exciting to get back to life on campus and in-person classes this semester. But the adjustment hasn’t been without its challenges, and with mid-term exams approaching, it can all feel a bit overwhelming right now. Just remember, you’re not alone, and UP offers many resources to help you manage the stress.
Pilots Prevent
September 28, 2021
The Delta variant of COVID-19 is now the most common — and most contagious — variant in the US. We asked Kaylin Soldat, associate director of primary care services at the Health and Counseling Center, to sort through the information from the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and provide clarity about the variant. Here are her answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Pilots Prevent
September 28, 2021
The University of Portland Clark Library offers so many resources, it can be hard to know where to begin, especially for the many students new to campus this year. Fortunately, there’s an Orientation website with information and short videos. It’s a great starting place to figure out how to get help, access materials from books to laptops, find the best places to study, and learn how to print.
Pilots Prevent
September 21, 2021
You attend college to learn and get a degree, but you go to college to expand your world. That’s perhaps the biggest reason why in-person classes, events, experiences, and campus living are such important aspects of the college journey (and worth protecting by following COVID-safe protocols). So, now that you’re here on The Bluff, it’s time to make the most of the experience by getting involved in campus life beyond the books.
Pilots Prevent
September 21, 2021
5 Questions with Andrew LaFrenz, PhD, MPH – Epidemiologist, Integrative Health and Wellness Program Director and Associate Professor, UP School of Nursing
Pilots Prevent
September 21, 2021
With fall semester in full swing, the return to campus and in-person classes comes with an array of emotions: excitement, relief, joy—and, yes, anxiety. Many students are finding it difficult to stay organized, finding their essay writing skills are a little rusty, or wondering if they can live up to classroom expectations.
Pilots Prevent
September 21, 2021
With COVID vaccines top of mind and in the news nearly every day since the pandemic began, it’s easy for the annual flu vaccine to get lost in the shuffle. But now more than ever, everyone needs to get their flu vaccine as early in the season as possible. And this year, UP is making flu vaccinations easier than ever.
Pilots Prevent
September 21, 2021
First-year students aren’t the only ones going through the sometimes-awkward experience of adjusting to communal life on campus. Due to the pandemic, most sophomores missed out on campus life last year. And juniors only got one college semester — their first one ever — before being sent home. That means many students living on campus this semester are actually pretty new at it — and might be feeling a bit at sea. But UP’s hall directors have plenty of campus living experience under their collective belts, and they’ve got lots of great advice for making the most of it.
Pilots Prevent
September 14, 2021
Now that nearly all UP students, staff, and faculty are vaccinated against COVID-19, exposure to the virus doesn’t always mean your daily routine comes to a screeching halt anymore. In fact, if you’re vaccinated, get exposed and don’t test positive, life pretty much goes along as usual.
Pilots Prevent
September 14, 2021
The COVID pandemic has been anything but predictable since it upended our lives in early 2020. Keeping track of the latest studies, data, recommendations, and mandates is like tracking a moving target. That’s why UP created a COVID-19 Steering Committee way back in March of that year, and it still meets for at least 90 minutes every single week a year and a half later.
Awards and Rankings
September 13, 2021
The University of Portland (UP) is now ranked third out of 130 institutions listed in the “Regional Universities – West” classification according to U.S. News & World Report magazine. In-Person Fall Semester Classes Proceeding with Vaccination Rates Above 96% Among Faculty, Staff, and Students; and Adherence to Oregon’s Mask & Other Safety Mandates
Pilots Prevent
Recreational Services
September 7, 2021
Fall Semester is in full swing, and the UP community is back to work and the classroom. In the midst of class, studying, social and work obligations, it’s important to find ways to stay active. Whether it’s taking a Brazilian Jiujitsu class, practicing your rock-climbing skills, weightlifting, or getting outside to explore the Pacific Northwest, The Beauchamp Recreation & Wellness Center has a plethora of offerings for students, staff, and faculty.
Pilots Prevent
August 31, 2021
A lot has changed since the last time UP welcomed students back to campus. Namely, nearly everyone is vaccinated. As a result, the quarantine and isolation protocols for those exposed to COVID-19 have changed too.
Pilots Prevent
August 31, 2021
The whole world is weathering the COVID-19 pandemic at the same time, and yet the experience is different from continent to continent, country to country, even person to person. It affects us all, but it affects each individual differently. That’s why, as we adjust to life together on The Bluff, it helps to remember we’re all in this together, but our journeys aren’t the same. We all need to give ourselves and each other the space to get our feet under us during this transitional time, and the grace to do so without judgement.
Portland Magazine
August 31, 2021
Conor Eifler ’11, recipient of the Angus Bowmer Award for Drama from the 2021 Oregon Book Awards, speaks to Portland magazine about the genesis of his play You Cannot Undo This Action, which will receive a fully produced reading at University of Portland from September 22 to 26, 2021.
Pilots Prevent
August 24, 2021
Last week was a big one on the UP campus. Sophomores moved in on Tuesday, August 17, and spent the following day enjoying their own special Orientation do-over complete with scavenger hunts and food carts. Then new students (and a lot of parents) arrived on Thursday, August 19, filling dumpsters with moving boxes and loudspeakers with the sweet sounds of Brittney and Tay-Tay.
Pilots Prevent
August 24, 2021
Whether you’re brand-new to campus, or it’s just been a while, you can probably use a refresher on all the comfy, quiet, power-outlet-bedecked spaces around campus tailor-made for studying. We gathered them all up in a handy list so you can find your favorite spot (and a few backups in case someone got there first).
Pilots Prevent
August 17, 2021
In mid-August, UP sophomore Murphy Bradshaw was planning to take a trip to Seattle to celebrate her mom’s milestone birthday with family and friends. That’s when it hit her: Maybe she should take a COVID test.
Pilots Prevent
August 17, 2021
At this point, we all have masks. They’re stuffed in our bags, peeking out of our pockets, dangling from our rear-view mirrors. They’ve become a fact of life. But your early pandemic purchases might be looking a bit tired — and you’re probably tired of looking at them. Why not embrace the low-germ lifestyle and add a new set of masks to the back-to-school shopping list?
Pilots Prevent
August 10, 2021
Getting vaccinated and wearing a mask are still everyone’s best defenses against contracting and spreading COVID-19, especially as the highly contagious Delta variant has caused a spike among unvaccinated individuals. Although breakthrough cases are relatively rare, they can happen. So, as reports of vaccinated people contracting COVID circulate, you may be wondering what to do if you find out one of your close friends, family, or colleagues test positive, even though you’re all vaccinated.
Pilots Prevent
August 10, 2021
On Monday, August 2, University of Portland’s campus offices were once again thrumming with activity as staff returned to work on campus. After well over a year working remotely through the height of the pandemic, the return to The Bluff was like a homecoming for many employees.
July 27, 2021
Orientation is just three weeks away, and while new students are busy finalizing their back-to-school shopping lists, the Orientation planning committee is hard at work finalizing the details of the fun events they have in store.
Pilots Prevent
July 27, 2021
When COVID-19 mandates relaxed in Oregon at the end of June, those who were unvaccinated against COVID-19 were advised to continue wearing masks while indoors in public areas, and that includes those at UP who qualified for a vaccine exemption. Those who were fully vaccinated could leave their masks off.
Pilots Prevent
July 13, 2021
Hearing news of vaccinated individuals contracting COVID-19 can be both concerning and confusing. The fact is, no vaccine is 100 percent effective. But does that mean there’s no point getting your shots? Absolutely not.
Pilots Prevent
July 13, 2021
Last fall, Orientation pivoted from in-person workshops to an online series due to COVID-19. But the pivot worked out so well, it inspired a whole new Orientation strategy.
Pilots Prevent
June 29, 2021
The most popular dishes are back, along with in-person seating and more non-alcoholic options at the bar.
Pilots Prevent
June 29, 2021
The pivots of last year have had a ripple effect on plans this fall. Find out the details, including how rising sophomores will get an Orientation do-over complete with a special move-in day and fun activities.
Pilots Prevent
June 15, 2021
So, you got your second shot (or the one-dose J&J) and the requisite two weeks have passed. Congratulations! You’re officially vaccinated against COVID-19.
Portland Magazine
June 9, 2021
Where many saw dangerous, crumbling buildings, graffiti artists saw a canvas, and Janna Machalek ’08 saw an intriguing research opportunity.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
June 9, 2021
Recent graduate and set designer Kat Yo ’21 brings her passion for sustainability and Korean folklore—and her dazzling imagination—to UP’s stage.
Portland Magazine
June 9, 2021
As University of Portland's auto mechanic, Shaun Shepherd is responsible for maintaining every vehicle owned by the University. That’s well over 100 pieces of moving equipment—from electric carts to backhoes, high lifts, and lawn mowers.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
June 9, 2021
When David Austin graduated from UP’s newly minted MBA in Nonprofit Management program in 2013, he earned the Moreau Fellows Award for Outstanding Service and Leadership for his work with Mercy Corps. Turns out, that was just a hint of much—much—bigger things to come.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
June 9, 2021
In some ways, the pandemic changed the focus of Tara Benavente’s day-to-day work. In other ways, she is doing what she has always done since she graduated from UP in 2014—bringing her abiding belief in hospitality to the community where she lives.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
June 9, 2021
Dawn Nelson ’82, longtime kindergarten teacher for Portland Public Schools, says she’s “failing at retirement.” The main reason she hasn’t had too much downtime in the last year is her booming cookie business.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
June 9, 2021
Sometimes the student and the parent end up learning a thing or two.
Portland Magazine
June 9, 2021
Even during this difficult year, her joy has sustained her.
Portland Magazine
President
June 9, 2021
A reflection on UP’s 20th president and his cherished years on The Bluff.
Study Abroad
June 8, 2021
After an international search, the University of Portland has named Maraina Montgomery, Director of Studies Abroad, effective July 1.
President
June 2, 2021
The University of Portland (UP) Board of Regents has chosen Provost Dr. Herbert A. Medina as Acting President effective July 1, succeeding Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., who announced in February that he would conclude his tenure at UP after 10 years on campus – the last seven as UP’s 20th president.
Pilots Prevent
June 1, 2021
A UP student and faculty member discuss why it was important to them to get vaccinated as soon as they had the chance.
Pilots Prevent
June 1, 2021
It’s all about research, internships, classes, and lots of opportunities for summer fun in the sun during Portland’s most glorious season. Find out why summer might just be the best time to live on campus.
Pilots Prevent
June 1, 2021
Although summer has just begun, it’s almost time for students to make their move-in day appointments. Find out what else you need to know before Fall semester starts.
Business
Awards and Rankings
May 27, 2021
The University of Portland’s Pamplin School of Business continues to rank among the best, recently earning multiple accolades for its flexible MBA programs geared toward helping business professionals navigate the challenges of today’s world. The latest recognitions continue a multi-year string of business education honors focused on The Bluff.
Portland Magazine
May 26, 2021
Student Engineers Tackle Shoreline Trash
Alumni
Portland Magazine
May 26, 2021
Thoughts from Graduating Senior, Devonna Begay ’21.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
May 26, 2021
Gina Amato Yazzolino ’96 is UP’s—no, your—new director of alumni and parent relations, and she has hit the ground running here on The Bluff.
Alumni
May 24, 2021
UP alum Conor Eifler’s play “You Cannot Undo This Action,” received the Angus Bowmer Award for Drama from the 2021 Oregon Book Awards. Eifler’s psychological thriller was inspired by conversations with the Ida B. Wells High School community about social media and how it’s affecting the lives of adolescents. In exploring these issues, “You Cannot Undo This Action” aims to spark dialogue about our rapidly evolving digital world.
Pilots Prevent
May 18, 2021
It’s never been easier to get vaccinated against COVID-19, and it takes just a couple clicks to report your vaccination status to UP.
Pilots Prevent
May 4, 2021
As Spring Semester winds down and students return home for the summer, UP’s COVID-19 testing program will pivot from a mandatory surveillance program to a decentralized, voluntary testing program beginning Monday, May 10.
Athletics
May 4, 2021
University of Portland Vice President for Athletics Scott Leykam has been named the 2021 Builders' Award honoree, the Division I-AAA Athletics Directors Association (DI-AAA ADA) announced on Tuesday. The Builders' Award is presented to an individual who, for a minimum of five (5) years as an active I-AAA Director of Athletics, has contributed to the enhancement of the Association, their institution(s), and the profession as a whole.
Pilots Prevent
May 4, 2021
With the UP community vaccinated this fall, some COVID protocols might relax while others will stay in place. But we’re optimistically looking ahead at more students on campus, more events, and more fun.
Pilots Prevent
President
April 27, 2021
The University of Portland (UP) has announced that it will require proof of COVID-19 vaccinations for all students, faculty and staff when the Fall 2021 semester begins. Employees must provide proof of vaccination by August 1, and all students will be required to show their proof of vaccination by September 1. As with all other vaccination requirements, religious and/or health-related exemptions from this policy may be requested.
Pilots Prevent
Commencement
April 27, 2021
In-person gatherings may be restricted this year, unfortunately precluding UP from holding a traditional in-person Commencement ceremony, but there are still plenty of ways to celebrate the monumental achievement of a college graduation.
College of Arts and Sciences
April 26, 2021
The University of Portland has appointed Dr. Amy Abugo Ongiri as Director and Professor of Ethnic Studies, effective July 15. Dr. Ongiri joins UP from Lawrence University, where they were an Associate Professor and the Jill Beck Director of Film Studies. Dr. Ongiri will be the first Director of the newly formed Ethnic Studies program at the University of Portland.
Pilots Prevent
April 20, 2021
Faculty and staff have partnered to provide a network of support to make sure that education and ongoing training are available to faculty to teaching in an online environment.
Pilots Prevent
Commencement
April 20, 2021
Commencement 2021 is almost here, and while it won’t look like the Commencement most students were expecting when they began their studies at UP, the University is doing its best to make the Class of 2021 feel celebrated while following the state of Oregon’s COVID safety guidelines for in-person events.
College of Arts and Sciences
April 20, 2021
The University of Portland’s Public Research Fellows program will host the 2021 Public Research Fellows Showcase on Thursday, April 29 from 7 p.m. - 8:15 p.m. on Zoom. Students and faculty fellows will unveil their projects and be on hand to guide attendees through a variety of lenses for thinking about the theme, Displacement and Justice.
Pilots Prevent
April 20, 2021
For a lot of UP students, studying for finals is the easy part. What’s harder is giving yourself permission to take breaks, unplug, and have fun. But relieving stress and anxiety is just as important as all that hard work.
Pilots Prevent
Residence Life
April 20, 2021
Residence halls close Friday, May 7, and residence life has advice for on-campus students to make their move-out process quick, easy, and COVID safe.
Residence Life
Pilots Prevent
April 13, 2021
Residence Life is bringing back its popular student event just in time to de-stress before finals. Therapy dogs, succulent plants, massages, contests, food, and prizes will be part of the Wellness Day events, April 21, 1-4 p.m. on West Quad.
Residence Life
Pilots Prevent
April 13, 2021
De-densified halls and move-in appointments will remain, but otherwise residence life is aiming for a "normal" fall semester in the halls, with special attention given to sophomores who will be living on campus for the first time.
Campus Ministry
Pilots Prevent
April 6, 2021
Because of COVID, people are experiencing loss of loved ones as well as loss of opportunities and experiences. Fr. Jim Gallagher, director of Campus Ministry, says, “If you find yourself stuck in those feelings of grief or loss, or the emotions that come with it, be patient with yourself and seek out help.”
Shepard Academic Resource Center
Pilots Prevent
April 6, 2021
The pandemic and remote learning has been an opportunity for the Learning Commons to create new programs online for peer tutoring, collaborative learning sessions, and more.
Pilots Prevent
April 6, 2021
Welcome to The Bluff will replace Weekend on The Bluff as the preview event for admitted students this year. The admissions office will host 16 outdoor information sessions over two weekends to reduce the number of visitors on campus at any one time and in any single location.
Nursing
Pilots Prevent
March 30, 2021
When their clinical rotations got canceled, UP nursing students got a valuable crash-course in patient care and people skills by administering COVID vaccines at clinics in the Portland area.
Residence Life
Pilots Prevent
March 30, 2021
Residence Life’s student care team says don’t underestimate the power of structured routines, study breaks, talking things out, and giving yourself some grace.
Alumni
March 25, 2021
The University of Portland (UP) has announced the appointment of Gina Amato Yazzolino as its new director of alumni and parent relations effective April 12. UP Vice President for University Relations J. Bryce Strang made the announcement today, concluding an extensive search process. Yazzolino, a 1996 graduate of UP, succeeds Craig Swinyard, Ph.D. ’98, who stepped away from the position last December after six years to rejoin his University academic colleagues as an associate professor in the Department of Mathematics.
Pilots Prevent
Campus Safety
March 23, 2021
Campus Ministry is bringing people together for Holy Week through live streaming events and on-campus services for students and members of the UP community who want to worship in person.
College of Arts and Sciences
March 22, 2021
The University of Portland Mock Trial team is headed to the National Championship Tournament, which is scheduled for April 16-18. The championship tournament can be watched over Zoom on the American Mock Trial Association’s website.
President
March 17, 2021
Dear University of Portland Community Members, Like so many around the nation, we are deeply disturbed and disheartened by the recent rise in violence and discrimination targeting the Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander communities. Xenophobia is an affront to our shared belief that all persons are children of God who possess inherent dignity. As a Catholic, Holy Cross institution, we condemn violence and discrimination, we pray for those victimized by hatred and intolerance, and we commit ourselves to building a more just and equitable world.
Pilots Prevent
Education
March 16, 2021
When classes went online, so did classroom field experiences, but SOED students proved their resilience and creativity over the course of a year of online teaching.
Residence Life
Pilots Prevent
March 16, 2021
UP’s residence halls pack each weekend with activities to bring students together in creative and COVID-safe ways.
Health Center
Pilots Prevent
March 16, 2021
The Health and Counseling Center (HCC) is open to all students and offers a range of care and services. Throughout the semester, the team at HCC has been serving the community through outreach, wellness education, and offering appointments, both in-person and virtual, to students who need primary care or mental health resources and counseling.
Business
March 10, 2021
The University of Portland (UP) has completed its search for a new Dean of the Dr. Robert B. Pamplin, Jr., School of Business, today naming Michael L. DeVaughn, Ph.D., to the position effective July 1. Dr. DeVaughn becomes the successor to Dr. Robin Anderson, who retired in June 2020.
Pilots Prevent
March 9, 2021
If you test positive for COVID-19 and have to check into isolation housing, the COVID Case Management team makes sure that even if you're physically isolated from others, you don’t have to go it alone. A member of the CCMT checks in with students in isolation housing daily to see how they’re feeling and provide assistance.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
March 9, 2021
Got questions about your camellias? Jim Nuccio ’72, co-owner of an 85-year-old family-run California nursery, has answers.
Portland Magazine
March 9, 2021
What the writer remembers about the Filipino food of his youth, what he forgets.
Business
Portland Magazine
March 9, 2021
After his first-place win in UP’s 2020 Pilots Venture Challenge invention track, accounting major and Entrepreneur Scholar Ryan Jarvis ’21 took second place in the 2020 Invent Oregon State Finals in the fall.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
March 9, 2021
The woodshop at the Holy Cross Court has become a place of refuge, especially during these days of endless video conferences. The stacks of maple, red oak, and cherry and our saws, planes, and chisels beckon us to imagine and create.
Residence Life
Pilots Prevent
March 9, 2021
Bon Appétit launched a new app called GET that students can connect to their campus meal plan. The app allows students to preorder and remote purchase food from Pilots Pantry, which carries over 80 different grocery staples.
Pilots Prevent
March 9, 2021
While most classes can be taught online, many of UP’s research projects rely on in-person field work and lab work that can’t be replicated virtually. But by following Pilots Prevent protocols since Fall semester, many of UP’s undergraduate research teams are moving forward with their projects—and making exciting progress.
Residence Life
Pilots Prevent
March 1, 2021
The housing process for next fall looks a little different this year. Students currently living off-campus will be given equal priority with current on-campus students in an effort to level the field for students who weren't able to live in the residence halls this year. Students should apply by March 8 to be included in the housing lottery.
Pilots Prevent
March 1, 2021
Active Minds UP empowers students through peer-to-peer mental health education. Self-care is central to the group's programming--a timely topic during the COVID-19 era.
Awards and Rankings
February 25, 2021
The University of Portland is the top producer of Fulbright U.S. Students in the nation among master’s level institutions, according to an annual study just released by the Chronicle of Higher Education. UP ranks first nationally in Fulbright U.S. awardees for academic year 2020-2021, with 10 students receiving the prestigious grants to study, conduct research, and/or teach English abroad.
Pilots Prevent
February 23, 2021
Some 990 individual students are taking in-person classes at University of Portland this spring. Clearing the logistical hurdles has been worth it, say students and professors.
Pilots Prevent
February 23, 2021
On Discord, University of Portland students have found an innovative way to ensure that social connections are still flourishing.
Residence Life
Pilots Prevent
February 22, 2021
The Wellness Education & Prevention Program is launching “Pilots Play: Wellness Day” during the mini-break on February 24. To lure students away from their books and computers, they’ve organized four hours of sometimes silly, sometimes soothing R&R at the Pilot House.
Commencement
February 22, 2021
The University of Portland (UP) has announced plans for a virtual commencement ceremony honoring the graduating Class of 2021 on Sunday, May 9 at 1:00 p.m. Schedules for a virtual Baccalaureate Mass that weekend along with details for the commissioning of graduates from UP’s Air Force and Army ROTC programs will be announced soon. Commencement honorees include Sr. Marilyn Lacey, RSM; Fr. Greg Boyle, SJ; Carlos Kalmar; Carol Ann Mooney; and Gil Muñoz.
February 18, 2021
After 10 years with the University of Portland (UP), including the last seven as its 20th president, Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., is stepping away from the presidency on June 30, 2021. Poorman made the announcement today in a message to UP community members. It was also announced by the UP Board of Regents that Rev. James (Jim) M. Lies, C.S.C., (pronounced LEASE) will serve as interim president effective July 1, 2021.
Portland Magazine
February 17, 2021
By purchasing land along Portland Harbor—known for its legacy of industrial pollution—University of Portland committed to a new level of environmental stewardship. The neighborhood is taking notice.
Nursing
Portland Magazine
Alumni
February 17, 2021
UP’s resident epidemiologist—Andrew Lafrenz ’02—has been working seven days a week since April. Not only is he directing the School of Nursing’s newest major in integrative health and wellness studies, but he has also been offering his expertise to local entities during the pandemic.
Portland Magazine
College of Arts and Sciences
February 17, 2021
Four University of Portland professors create a massive online interdisciplinary course with nearly two dozen faculty from four of UP's five schools with rave reviews from students and faculty.
International Student Services
Portland Magazine
February 17, 2021
Three Cambodian UP students reflect on distance learning in the COVID-19 era.
Nursing
Portland Magazine
February 17, 2021
Chelsea Cassens ’08 wants her eastern Oregon community to stay healthy. She works toward that goal as a nurse and as an advocate for the protection of public lands.
Pilots Prevent
Health Center
February 16, 2021
University of Portland's Health and Counseling Center staff are dedicated to providing care for students with physical health concerns, COVID-related or not, and connecting them to mental health resources.
Residence Life
Pilots Prevent
February 16, 2021
On-campus students are finding fun and meaningful ways to connect with roommates during COVID times.
February 15, 2021
All University operations are canceled on Tuesday, February 16 – including in-person and online classes and all remote work – until campus reopens at 7 a.m. on Wednesday, February 17.
February 13, 2021
Due to inclement weather, University of Portland's shutdown day protocols will remain in effect until 7 a.m. on Monday, February 15. Bauccio Commons remains open for student meal pick-up. Clark Library will remain closed through Sunday with online resources available. Staff and student employees scheduled to work on Sunday, February 14 should contact their supervisors for further instruction.
February 11, 2021
University of Portland will pivot to online instruction at 4 p.m. February 11 in response to inclement weather for the Portland area. Staff should work remotely on February 12. Clark Library will close at 4 p.m. Thursday. The Commons will remain open for student meals. Operations are expected to return to normal by Sunday, February 14.
Mathematics
February 10, 2021
Mathematics professor Stephanie Salomone was selected as an associate director of Project NExT (New Experiences in Teaching), a national program of the Mathematics Association of America that provides professional development for new faculty in mathematics. Salomone was a NExT fellow in 2005 and was offered the opportunity to apply for the associate director position last fall.
Pilots Prevent
February 9, 2021
Daily operation in printing and mailing services have changed in the COVID era. Among the changes: the center is now closed through the noon hour to allow for sanitizing; only one customer at a time is allowed in the building; and, like all public spaces on campus, masks are required at all times.
Pilots Prevent
Recreational Services
February 9, 2021
COVID may have hamstrung our usual workout routines, but University of Portland’s recreation staff are hard at work coming up with ways to keep the UP community active this spring with an outdoor workout space, virtual classes, and outdoor equipment rentals.
Campus Ministry
Pilots Prevent
February 8, 2021
Although social distancing is still the order of the day, that doesn’t mean we have to be socially isolated. In fact, Campus Ministry is doing all it can to bring people together—safely—right when we need it most.
Health Center
Pilots Prevent
February 8, 2021
Asymptomatic surveillance testing is an important part of UP’s ongoing Comprehensive Prevention Strategy to keep the community safe and healthy. We know some folks have questions about the process, and we’re here to provide you with answers and resources.
Pilots Prevent
President
February 2, 2021
The University of Portland is setting its sights on a Fall 2021 semester with primarily in-person classes; more students living in the residence halls; and a return to regular campus activities. UP President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., made the announcement today as a continuance of momentum from the current spring term that has 800-plus students living on campus and a hybrid curriculum of virtual and select in-person instruction. It was also announced that tuition and fees for the 2021-22 academic year would be frozen at current levels.
Pilots Prevent
February 2, 2021
Even with campus re-opening for classes, study, and some recreation activities, UP essentially remains a closed campus this semester.
Residence Life
Pilots Prevent
February 2, 2021
With students safely and successfully moved in to the dorms and settling in, University of Portland’s Residence Life team is thriving and working to provide them with the best on-campus experience possible. From virtual activities, to safe in-person group events, to one-on-one meetings, Mehling Hall director Shaylene Smith fills us in on everything that her team has been doing to foster community.
Pilots Prevent
Athletics
February 2, 2021
In person fans aren't allowed at athletics venues in the State of Oregon, but you can still cheer on your favorite Pilot teams by watching livestreams and engaging with social media.
Pilots Prevent
February 2, 2021
The University strongly discourages anyone, employees and students, from doing any non-emergency travel during Spring Semester. As such, the week-long Spring Break has been replaced with two mini-breaks--long enough to give students and faculty a breather from classes but short enough to make local excursions preferable to a big trip.
Pilots Prevent
January 26, 2021
Spring Semester has kicked-off this week, and campus is vibrant with students again. Last week, students and their families arrived for their designated move-in appointments and were welcomed by University of Portland staff, who have been hard at work preparing to make the move-in process as smooth and safe as possible. Also awaiting students were baseline COVID-19 tests by UP healthcare partner Carbon Health, which required a negative result before move-in was allowed.
Pilots Prevent
Residence Life
January 26, 2021
Navigating roommate relationships can be challenging in the best of time. During the pandemic, additional questions related to setting boundaries and personal space, accommodating homework needs, dealing with demanding schedules, loneliness, isolation, or plain old homesickness can occur. Carol Dell'Oliver and Andrew Weingarten offer tips to help students have a successful and positive experience.
Pilots Prevent
Human Resources
January 26, 2021
The COVID-19 Committee has developed flow charts to help faculty and staff understand the testing process for the high contact, low contact, no contact, and exclusively remote groups.
Portland Magazine
Athletics
January 21, 2021
For weeks, University of Portland’s men’s and women’s basketball teams navigated online classes and roamed a lifeless campus, as they fought off fears their season would never happen. On Oct. 14, the NCAA permitted its Division I basketball programs to begin preseason practices with regular coronavirus testing and other safeguards, and gyms across the United States opened doors for full-contact, five-on-five workouts and scrimmages. But of the 350 Division I programs, two—UP and crosstown rival Portland State—were forced to keep their doors closed, thanks to a perplexing decision by Oregon Gov. Kate Brown to deny exemption requests by the schools to play through the Oregon Health Authority’s sports guidance.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
January 21, 2021
On a crab processor boat, in 1988, in the middle of a storm off the coast of Alaska, Kara Breuer ’95, MAT ’06 made a promise that if she survived, she’d go to college. It took the crew about 17 hours to make it home.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
January 21, 2021
Airline captain Anderson Johnson III ’90 has seen it all from the cockpit of his 747. From meteor showers and space shuttle launches, to watching the sun chase down the horizon near the North Pole. These days, Johnson is now focused on what he is carrying in the cargo of his UPS plane—the COVID-19 vaccine.
Pilots Prevent
January 19, 2021
With a national healthcare provider delivering innovative COVID-19 symptom screening and testing, the University of Portland (UP) is laying the groundwork for a measured return to campus for students, faculty and staff. More than 800 undergraduates began prescheduled move-ins this week to occupy UP residence halls following baseline testing by new partner Carbon Health.
Health Center
Pilots Prevent
January 19, 2021
Due to HIPAA and FERPA regulations, UP can communicate medical information to parents when they have the consent of students.
Pilots Prevent
Library
January 19, 2021
Although the library has (and will continue to) offer a wide range of online services—including ebooks, scanned and emailed book chapters, physical books mailed right to your door, and even live chat with a librarian—this spring it will be open for studying again.
Pilots Prevent
January 19, 2021
A small number of in-person classes--mostly core curriculum courses for first-year students--will be offered when Spring 2021 commences.
Recreational Services
Pilots Prevent
Health Center
January 19, 2021
The Career Center, Health and Counseling Center, and recreation services have altered access but still have a plethora of services available to students this spring.
Pilots Prevent
Health Center
January 16, 2021
The University of Portland (UP) was notified last night that a previously-diagnosed case of COVID-19 infecting one (1) on-campus staff member is the recently-discovered “UK variant” or “B.1.1.7” strain of the virus. It is the first known case of this variant in Oregon. The infected staff member has been in isolation since the initial diagnosis and will remain so until cleared by their healthcare provider in the coming days.
Health Center
Pilots Prevent
January 12, 2021
UP is partnering with leading national healthcare provider Carbon Health for screening, diagnostic testing, and the delivery of rapid results for COVID-19 testing of students, faculty, and staff.
Pilots Prevent
January 12, 2021
For everyone anticipating a safe return to campus for Spring 2021, University of Portland staff are hard at work planning ways to provide spaces to gather for eating, studying, socializing, and events. By now we’re all used to expecting things to look and feel different, and that remains true as we adapt to changing guidelines—and Portland weather.
Pilots Prevent
January 11, 2021
Daily symptom monitoring is a key part of the Pilots Prevent COVID-19 safety protocols--designed to keep UP community member safe and healthy during the pandemic.
January 11, 2021
University of Portland’s Office of International Education, Diversity, and Inclusion invites all UP community members to take part in “MLK Day On,” a celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on Monday, January 18 from 6 - 7:30 p.m., with a virtual keynote address by Taylor Stewart ’18.
Pilots Prevent
December 22, 2020
When classes resume in spring, UP will engage in comprehensive, multi-level testing protocols using an independent, third-party vendor.
Pilots Prevent
December 22, 2020
Both in-person and virtual events will engage students and provide space for community.
Pilots Prevent
December 22, 2020
The COVID Case Management Team has created a comprehensive plan to ensure students feel supported and taken care of if they have to quarantine or isolate due to COVID-19 Concerns.
Nursing
December 17, 2020
As Oregon welcomes long-awaited vaccines to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Portland School of Nursing (UPSON) is stepping up to assist with vaccination of priority recipients at Kaiser Permanente medical centers.
December 10, 2020
As the Fall 2020 semester ends, leaders at University of Portland have positive reflections and an optimistic outlook heading into the Christmas holidays and beyond.
Education
Garaventa Center
December 7, 2020
Karen Eifler, University of Portland professor of education and co-executive director of the Garaventa Center for Catholic Intellectual Life and American Culture, was named the next executive director of Collegium. Founded in 1992, Collegium invites faculty at Catholic colleges and universities to better understand the mission of Catholic higher education and help prepare them to become leaders in advancing that mission in creative ways.
Alumni
Business
December 1, 2020
The Portland Business Journal Forty Under 40 class for 2020 includes University of Portland alumni DJ Widmer ’02 and Rachel Rapinoe ’08. Both were chosen from a pool of 300 Portland-area entrepreneurs, innovators, and rising stars in the local business community.
Portland Magazine
Development
November 18, 2020
Distance learning, while essential due to the pandemic, has presented new challenges for many University of Portland students. Aimee Morlatt '22, junior finance major and president of UP’s mental health advocacy group Active Minds, learned first-hand of students attending Zoom classes from their cars, missing lectures due to lack of internet service or being in different time zones (especially international students), along with other inequities and hardships.
Air Force ROTC
Army ROTC
October 27, 2020
University of Portland Air Force and Army ROTC will hold a virtual commemoration ceremony in honor of Veterans Day on Wednesday, November 11 from 10:50 a.m. to 12:25 p.m.
Alumni
Education
October 27, 2020
University of Portland alum Sara Wyffels ’06 was named 2021 Arizona Teacher of the Year by the Arizona Educational Foundation during a virtual award ceremony. Wyffels, who has been teaching for 14 years, currently teaches Spanish Level 2 and International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement levels 5 and 6 at Chandler High School. Wyffels received her Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Portland’s School of Education in 2006.
Portland Magazine
October 21, 2020
Sharif Morton ’21 writes a reflection about playing trombone.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
October 21, 2020
Kaia Sand ’94, executive director of Street Roots, the award-winning weekly social justice newspaper, admits she’s an “all-in” kind of a person. A poet and a journalist, she looks at the poet-physician William Carlos Williams as an example— someone who did house visits for patients and wrote poetry on prescription pads.
Portland Magazine
October 21, 2020
Biology professor Katie O’Reilly and five undergraduate scientists have created new habitat for a colony of Purple Martins.
Portland Magazine
October 21, 2020
A personal reflection on the new icon of the Ugandan Martyrs commissioned for the chapel in Shipstad Hall.
Portland Magazine
October 21, 2020
A song and spiritual encouragement for continuing to work toward God’s kin-dom.
Portland Magazine
October 21, 2020
After visiting The National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Alabama, Taylor Stewart ’18 returned to the Northwest determined to advance racial justice in the present by looking squarely at the racism of Oregon’s past. His first goal was to honor and memorialize a man named Alonzo Tucker.
Portland Magazine
October 21, 2020
Tate Harris is doing everything possible to make sure no one who’s eligible has an excuse not to vote.
Portland Magazine
October 21, 2020
As UP's Acting President/Provost, Herbert Medina has his eye on revitalized curriculum, increased student retention and graduation rates, more opportunities for undergraduate research, and meaningful steps toward greater diversity and equity among students and faculty.
Portland Magazine
October 21, 2020
Ron Scott, UP's HVAC specialist, has seen it all in his 28 years caring for campus buildings.
October 20, 2020
Mary and Dustin Klinger offer a statement on the first anniversary of the death of their son, Owen.
Portland Magazine
September 24, 2020
Professor Karen Eifler, co-director of the Garaventa Center for Catholic Intellectual Life and American Culture, offers six reasons why it's possible to cultivate--despite pandemics, protests, and environmental catastrophes--a "sacramental imagination," the kind of imagination that finds grace and wonder in the smallest of things.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
Education
September 23, 2020
John Stewart ’06 teaches ninth grade English and junior-level advanced placement (AP) language and serves as chair of the English department at Clackamas High School in Clackamas, OR. His 15-year career as a teacher has been marked by many challenges and rewards, but the closure of Oregon schools due to the COVID-19 outbreak has presented a unique set of challenges and impressions. We spoke to John shortly before the end of the spring 2020 semester.
Awards and Rankings
September 15, 2020
The University of Portland is now ranked second out of 127 institutions listed in the “Regional Universities – West” classification according to U.S. News & World Report magazine. The University also placed second in the 2020 rankings – its highest ranking to date.
Garaventa Center
September 14, 2020
Catholic cosmologist and chair of physics at Creighton University Gintaras Duda will present the 2020 Zahm Lecture “From the Big Bang to The Saint John’s Bible: The Role of Astonishment in a Scientist’s Journey to Integrate Faith and Reason” on Wednesday, September 16 at 5 p.m. The virtual event is free and open to the public.
College of Arts and Sciences
September 2, 2020
The University of Portland’s Public Research Fellows program will present a talk by Brittney Cooper, "Trust Black Women: The Importance of Black Women in U.S. Politics," on Friday, September 4, at 3:30 p.m., as part of the Public Research Fellows 2020-2021 Virtual Series. Cooper’s talk was postponed from its original March date and will now take place via Zoom.
Education
Portland Magazine
August 27, 2020
After Oregon schools shuttered for the academic year in March 2020, student teacher Makamae Nottage '20 was presented with about 30 questions from her third-grade classroom.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
Nursing
August 27, 2020
Bailey Saleumvong '08 is a travel nurse currently based in Los Angeles. He cares for critically ill COVID patients and sees signs of hope even amid the pandemic.
President
July 30, 2020
Plans by the University of Portland to begin its fall term with a combination of in-person and online instruction have changed in response to the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of a “hybrid” approach to instruction, almost all classes will now be taught online beginning August 24 for the fall 2020 semester.
President
July 17, 2020
The following message was sent to the University of Portland students and families on July 17, 2020
Portland Magazine
Alumni
Education
July 14, 2020
Renee Espinoza graduated from UP in 2009, then went on to get her master’s in curriculum and instruction with an ESL endorsement in 2010. She went to work for Portland Public Schools that year and currently teaches second grade at Astor Elementary School, mere blocks from the UP campus in North Portland. We reached out to Renee to share her insights and experiences during the switch to distance learning in March 2020.
President
June 30, 2020
As Dr. Eduardo Contreras stated on Sunday, June 28, we continue to examine the testimonials that have been posted to the @BlackatUniversityPortland Instagram account. We do so with open hearts and minds, and with profound sadness for the pain that is evident in these experiences.
President
June 12, 2020
In the weeks that have followed the death of George Floyd on a street in Minneapolis, we have listened to the voices of many who have shared their experiences of pain, trauma, and discrimination. We have listened to the voices of people who boldly proclaim that Black Lives Matter amidst a stream of structures and systems that emphatically signal to them that they do not. We have listened to the voices of people in our own UP community – especially the voices of African Americans and other people of color –as they have shared their dismay, anguish, and exhaustion with a lived experience in which their God-given human dignity is denied. We have heard these voices.
Nursing
Portland Magazine
June 9, 2020
Because wilderness can be a balm for the pain in every human heart. Because we can quiet our minds and our voices and listen to the sounds of the trees, the rivers, the wind, the rain.
Alumni
Nursing
Portland Magazine
June 9, 2020
A nurse makes home visits during the pandemic. What does she see? Body, Mind, Emotion, Spirit, Dream.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
Nursing
June 9, 2020
For many years I wasn’t able to articulate the value of a liberal arts education. But right now, particularly for nursing and particularly around COVID-19, I think about the value of the liberal arts education, about how I had courses in philosophy and ethics, how I feel very grounded in ethical decision-making.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
June 9, 2020
Kenechi “Kene” Anigbogu ’18 was a member of the 100th group of American Peace Corps volunteers to serve in Morocco. His Peace Corps service was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
Army ROTC
June 9, 2020
When 1st. Lt. Beth Biggs ’18 received her orders on March 29, she was ready. She was in the Army ROTC program during her time at UP and is now part of the Oregon Army National Guard 141st Brigade Support Battalion’s COVID-19 response team, distributing personal protective equipment (PPE) throughout Oregon.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
June 9, 2020
Those among you who have attended a Rock the Bluff concert, a mainstay event at UP since 2012, probably didn’t know you have Sean Ducey ’13, ’19 MBA to thank for the tradition. He was only a junior when he founded the annual concert and learned that event planning and behind-the-scenes work was his calling.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
June 9, 2020
At the start of her four years at University of Portland Diana Salgado Huicochea ’20 felt overwhelmed and alone. Though a cradle Catholic, Diana had never attended Mass celebrated in English, and, unable to respond to the prayers, she felt like an imposter. Yet she returned, took pictures of the missal, and after finishing homework, practiced responses aloud nightly until she memorized them.
Portland Magazine
June 9, 2020
This is what it means to pray these days.
Mathematics
Portland Magazine
June 9, 2020
My kids like to tell me that I’m a doctor, but not a useful doctor, and that’s true. When the flight attendant asks, “Is there a doctor on the plane?” they don’t mean a PhD, and they certainly don’t mean someone who is especially helpful only in a mathematical emergency.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
June 9, 2020
Every day—even now, especially now—Fedele Bauccio ’64, ’66 is feeding people who need healthy food. In March he partnered with World Central Kitchen to feed passengers and crew quarantined on the Grand Princess cruise ship.
Portland Magazine
Athletics
Alumni
June 9, 2020
The University’s new baseball stadium will need to wait until next season for its premiere, so we’re taking this opportunity to look back on the blood, sweat, and puddle suckers that got us here.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
June 9, 2020
Engineering alum Evan Fontaine ’18, ’19 works in the prostheses lab at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) with a clear mission in mind: to make better prosthetics for growing and active children. Case in point: he and his team are working to set up a young patient to throw the first pitch at the National Softball Championship.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
June 9, 2020
On March 11, ESPN NBA reporter Malika Andrews ’17 landed in New York after a long flight from Los Angeles. Although she’d been scheduled to cover a game in Milwaukee, ESPN was pulling reporters back home. She did not yet know that the NBA would suspend its season due to concerns about COVID-19, or that she would be reporting on it that night.
College of Arts and Sciences
May 28, 2020
Following a wide-ranging national search, the University of Portland has chosen from within its internal ranks for a new Provost of the institution. Dr. Herbert A. Medina, currently Dean of UP’s College of Arts & Sciences, will assume the role of Provost effective July 1. University President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., made the announcement today to faculty, staff, and students. Dr. Medina succeeds Dr. Thomas G. Greene, who is retiring on June 30 after 35 years at UP, including the last seven years as Provost.
Engineering
College of Arts and Sciences
Business
Nursing
May 26, 2020
The University of Portland’s Committee on Teaching and Scholarship is pleased to announce the 2020 Faculty Award winners.
President
May 22, 2020
Vice President for Financial Affairs, Alan P. Timmins, will retire from the University of Portland, effective June 30, 2020. Since 2011, Timmins has contributed to the financial health and stability of the University.
President
May 19, 2020
As part of its response plan to the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Portland (UP) is targeting Monday, August 17 as the opening of its Fall 2020 term and a return to in-person instruction. University President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., shared the plan in a memo today to faculty, staff, current students and their parents. After a full week of campus move-ins, mandatory orientation sessions, coursework introductions and other training, classroom instruction will begin on Monday, August 24.
Nursing
Portland Magazine
May 14, 2020
When COVID-19 forced the closure of in-person classes at University of Portland, the online learning posed a challenge to nursing students who were getting hands-on experience in clinical rotations. Nursing faculty quickly stepped in with a unique and timely learning opportunity.
Portland Magazine
May 14, 2020
On the occasion of what would have been her commencement, this first-generation college graduate reaches out to the woman who inspired her. Por motivo de la que habría sido su ceremonia de graduación, esta estudiante universitaria de primera generación le manda un reconocimiento a la mujer que la ha inspirado toda la vida.
Commencement
May 3, 2020
The University of Portland celebrated its Commencement in a virtual ceremony on Sunday, May 3, with 1,071 graduates who earned degrees from the Shiley School of Engineering, the Pamplin School of Business, the School of Education, the School of Nursing, and the College of Arts & Sciences.
President
Commencement
April 27, 2020
The Class of 2020 will be honored with a virtual Commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 3, and an in-person ceremony at a future date when it is safe to hold a large event. The University is planning for in-person classes in Fall 2020.
Moreau Center
Awards and Rankings
April 23, 2020
University of Portland’s Moreau Center for Service & Justice was honored by the Catholic Volunteer Network as one of their “Top Schools for Service.” In honor of National Volunteer Week, the Catholic Volunteer Network put together a list of schools who “demonstrated consistent excellence in collaborating with our network and championing post-grad service among students.”
Awards and Rankings
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
April 22, 2020
Ten members of the University of Portland’s Class of 2020 have been named as Fulbright U.S. Student Program Finalists and offered awards to teach English abroad. It is hoped that Fulbright recipients will be able to travel to their programs in fall 2020; the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs has instituted a temporary pause of all Bureau of ECA-funded international exchange programs, including Fulbright.
Business
April 16, 2020
In honor of Financial Literacy Month, the UP Cash Flow Club has created a new, virtual series to help UP students, faculty, staff, parents, and alumni. The Financial Self-Care Week will run from Saturday, April 18, to Friday, April 24, with online workshops available once a day during the evening.
Portland Magazine
Athletics
April 16, 2020
How UP hired women's basketball coach Michael Meek and turned a program around in one year.
Portland Magazine
April 15, 2020
A UP senior reflects on the final moments she didn't know were final.
Portland Magazine
April 15, 2020
What happens when an award-winning college math professor suddenly finds herself homeschooling her boys during the COVID-19 crisis? Sighs, grunts, frustration, and laughter.
Engineering
April 6, 2020
As a participant in the Civil Engineering Cooperative Program (CECOP), Erin McConville spent the last 6 months working in the City of Forest Grove’s engineering department.
Nursing
Engineering
April 6, 2020
The Shiley School of Engineering and Portland- area organization Community Vision have come together in a partnership with sponsored Maker Challenges and capstone projects. Community Vision’s mission is “is to make Oregon a place where people with disabilities can live, work, and thrive in the communities of their choice.” Engineering students are working together to further this mission by working on projects with Community Vision’s Assistive Technology (AT) Lab.
Engineering
April 6, 2020
At Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), trauma surgeon Dr. Albert Chi has a vision to make low-cost or free 3D printed protheses for children. A group of four Shiley School of Engineering students are helping Chi make this vision into reality. The interdisciplinary student team, with the help of Chi’s lab, are designing a 3D printed lower arm myoelectric prosthesis that will be given to a specific user at the end of the project.
Engineering
April 6, 2020
Four seniors in the Shiley School of Engineering are designing a renewable energy powered irrigation system for the 600 girls at St. Mary’s Secondary School for Girls in Karonga, Malawi. The irrigation system will serve the seven-acre farm at the school and would allow for planting and harvesting three times a year. Civil engineering students Kim Dorr and Madi Wernke and mechanical engineering students Aymon Klem and Nadine Prentice are working with two Portland-based organizations, TeamLift and Green Empowerment.
Engineering
March 30, 2020
Following a comprehensive national search, the University of Portland (UP) has named Dr. Brian Fabien as the new Dean of the Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering effective July 1. University President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., and Provost Dr. Thomas Greene announced the new appointment today. Dr. Fabien joins UP from the University of Washington in Seattle where he was most recently Associate Dean of Academic Affairs for the College of Engineering and Professor of Mechanical Engineering.
President
March 23, 2020
University of Portland regent and longtime benefactor Amy Dundon-Berchtold passed away on Monday, March 16. A visionary real estate entrepreneur and investor, Amy, along with her husband Jim Berchtold ’63, gave generously to the University of Portland.
March 20, 2020
As further response to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic, the University of Portland has announced cancellation of the Spring 2020 Commencement ceremony originally planned for Sunday, May 3, and will develop plans for a virtual format. Online instruction, which began on March 18 to replace all in-person classes, will continue through the end of the spring term. University President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., made the announcements this afternoon in accordance with mandates from local, state, and national health authorities.
Portland Magazine
Nursing
March 20, 2020
Junior nursing major Eileen Ryan '21 recently worked a community health rotation at Kenton Women's Village, a 14-pod village offering temporary housing to assist houseless women in the Portland area. Ryan talks about her work at KWV.
March 12, 2020
In-person classes will cease for the near future and all classes at University of Portland will be conducted online.
March 12, 2020
Beginning Monday, March 16, University of Portland will transition to online instruction. Campus will remain open and under a normal schedule for faculty and staff. In accordance with recently-issued directives from state and local authorities, large events will be canceled. However there is no plan at this time to cancel Commencement in May.
Commencement
March 10, 2020
The Office of the President at University of Portland has announced the speaker and honorees to be recognized during the 2020 Commencement ceremonies held on the UP campus in the Chiles Center on Sunday, May 3.
March 8, 2020
Members of the University community experiencing symptoms of the Coronavirus are asked to self-isolate until cleared by a medical professional.
College of Arts and Sciences
February 28, 2020
The University of Portland’s inaugural Public Research Fellows Program has landed three external grants to support public humanities undergraduate research projects inspired by this year’s 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote.
Awards and Rankings
February 26, 2020
University of Portland is ranked 7th nationally among peer institutions as a top producer of Peace Corps volunteers according to a study released by the Peace Corps. UP currently has 12 alumni serving around the world.
President
February 25, 2020
Against a backdrop of struggles at private colleges and universities in Oregon and around the country, leadership at the University of Portland (UP) is sharing an optimistic picture. University President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., spoke in upbeat terms about the current state and future of UP during his President’s Biennial Address to more than 300 supporters, alumni and guests at the Sentinel Hotel earlier today.
Portland Magazine
Biology
February 21, 2020
UP biology professor Tara Prestholdt won the 2019 Excellence in Teaching Award from the Association of College and University Biology Educators (ACUBE). The award is offered annually to honor faculty who practice and promote effective, innovative teaching in the biology classroom.
Engineering
February 21, 2020
Martin Cenek, associate professor of computer science, loves to solve problems. With a background in machine learning and complex systems, Cenek is solving problems with his students in the Shiley School of Engineering.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
February 21, 2020
Rob Justus ’87 has a track record of building Portland-area housing—512 units and counting—for individuals on a fixed income. He’s just getting started.
Portland Magazine
February 21, 2020
A week in Olympic National Park teaches writer Rosette Royale to see the world through a new lens.
Portland Magazine
Garaventa Center
February 19, 2020
Linda Plitt Donaldson, associate dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Studies at James Madison University, came to University of Portland to speak about Catholic social justice icon Dorothy Day and the lessons we can still learn from her today. Donaldson also walked through the root cause of homelessness—the lack of affordable housing in this country—and the ways in which the “housing first” model—namely, getting people into secure housing and then tackling any other potential health issues second—is backed by evidence and research.
Athletics
Portland Magazine
February 17, 2020
Michael Meek took over the Pilot women's basketball program in April 2019. His goal: create a positive experience for his players. And win games along the way.
Nursing
Alumni
Portland Magazine
February 16, 2020
The Blanchet House has a long history with the University of Portland. Three alumnae--nursing professor Kelly Fox '90, Volunteers of America Oregon president and CEO Kay Toran '64, and nurse practitioner Emily Harrington '03, '06--are working to strengthen that relationship with the soon-to-open Harrington Health Clinic--a nurse-led clinic staffed with UP nursing students.
Portland Magazine
Campus Ministry
February 16, 2020
University of Portland dedicated a new Grotto at the Marian Garden on November 24. The work of Portland-area sculptors Mike Suri and Scott Foster, the Grotto offers a dedicated place for the University community to light a candle for a prayer or intention.
Nursing
Portland Magazine
February 15, 2020
Fully equipped hospital rooms and live actor "standardized patients" are part of University of Portland School of Nursing's Simulated Health Center, where student nurses practical clinical judgment as well as nursing skills.
Alumni
February 14, 2020
The Portland Business Journal recently named University of Portland alum Scott Hatley ’01 as one of their “Executives of the Year.” Hatley is the executive director and co-founder (along with fellow UP alum Vail Horton '02) of Portland-area non-profit INCIGHT.
Portland Magazine
February 14, 2020
Each hand-sewn stitch in Betty Lageson's quilts was a love note to its recipient. Her daughter Anna Lageson-Kerns reflects on her mother's special gift.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
February 14, 2020
When Reid Richards '88 died of cancer, his family honored his memory by starting the Reid JK Foundation to provide resources to children in Hawaii who have lost a parent.
Alumni
Athletics
Portland Magazine
February 14, 2020
A wide support network helped Donald Wilson thrive at University of Portland. He's returned to The Bluff as a broadcaster for men's basketball and "pays it forward" by working with several non-profits in the Vancouver, WA, area.
Portland Magazine
February 13, 2020
With horseradish, you’re playing with pungent, hot, peppery molecular fire, says Fr. Patrick Hannon, CSC, '82.
Portland Magazine
Residence Life
February 13, 2020
Carmen Ruiz, Villa Maria's housekeeper of six years, is the self-described "mom" of the dorm, and a salsa-loving parent of two studying to become a counselor.
Alumni
Athletics
Portland Magazine
February 12, 2020
From recreation tennis to the US Open, former Pilots tennis player Michael Dowse '89 now leads the US's national governing body for tennis.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
Athletics
February 10, 2020
Rey Ortiz '19 was a Major League Soccer SuperDraft pick for FC Cincinnati. He's proud to be making his dreams come true, and equally proud to be a first-generation college student at University of Portland.
Business
February 10, 2020
The University of Portland’s Pamplin School of Business will host the Women in Business Showcase on March 11, 2020 at the Portland Art Museum. Presented by Cambia Health Solutions and the Bauccio Lecture Series, the event returns for the second time after its debut last year.
Awards and Rankings
February 9, 2020
The University of Portland is one of the top producers of Fulbright awards in the nation among master’s level institutions, according to an annual study just released by the Chronicle of Higher Education. The University was ranked 5th nationally in student Fulbright awards for the academic year 2019-2020, with 5 students who have received the prestigious grant to study, conduct research, and/or teach English abroad.
Engineering
Portland Magazine
January 24, 2020
Steve Johnson was born with a congenital heart disease for which he recently had heart valve surgery. As a prospective student, he learned that University of Portland is the alma mater of heart valve pioneer Donald P. Shiley, and his college choice immediately become obvious.
Garaventa Center
Library
January 22, 2020
Author Lisa Ko’s 2017 debut novel The Leavers is the 2019-2020 selection for University of Portland’s annual ReadUP campaign and the Schoenfeldt Distinguished Visiting Writers series. Ko will give a lecture in Buckley Center Auditorium on Monday, February 10, at 7 p.m. It is free and open to the public. Ko will follow the lecture with a book signing.
Moreau Center
January 15, 2020
The University of Portland will host “MLK Day On – Day of Service” at Portland-area agencies from 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.; and a keynote address by Walidah Imarisha from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. on Monday, January 20.
Alumni
January 3, 2020
University of Portland alumna Jami Resch ’96 was named Portland police chief on Tuesday, December 31. Prior to this position, Resch was the assistant chief of the investigations branch and had previously served as the acting commander of North Precinct.
Awards and Rankings
December 13, 2019
The Congregation of Holy Cross, United States Province of Priests and Brothers, will award the Spirit of Holy Cross Award to retiring University of Portland Provost Dr. Thomas Greene. The recognition of Dr. Greene was among the five 2019 recipients announced over the weekend from the Congregation’s United States Province Office.
Business
Awards and Rankings
November 26, 2019
The Pamplin School of Business’ Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at the University of Portland has been named to The Princeton Review’s list of Best Business Schools 2020. One of 248 on-campus MBA programs included nationally, the Pamplin School of Business was selected based on academic excellence and additional institutional data.
Air Force ROTC
Army ROTC
November 6, 2019
University of Portland Air Force and Army ROTC will conduct a 24-hour vigil in honor of Veterans Day, concluding with a commemoration ceremony on Monday, November 11, at 11 a.m., at the Praying Hands/Broken Wall Memorial on the campus’s East Quad at 5000 N. Willamette Blvd. in Portland.
International Languages and Cultures
Psychology
Portland Magazine
Alumni
November 5, 2019
Lupita Ruiz-Tolento '13 is the director of institutional development for SembraMedia, a nonprofit that supports independent digital journalism in Latin America.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
November 4, 2019
95-year-old Neal Hook '49 is still going strong. Find out the secret to his long and happy life.
Engineering
Portland Magazine
Alumni
November 1, 2019
Juliana (Flores) Baza '13 earned a degree in mechanical engineering. After an internship at NASA, she took a job engineering bike helmets and was recruited by Nike to join its team as a shoe product engineer.
Engineering
Portland Magazine
November 1, 2019
Civil engineering alum Kevin Kelly '12 was the project engineer for Dundon-Berchtold Hall.
Nursing
October 30, 2019
University of Portland’s School of Nursing has opened its newly renovated and updated Simulated Health Center. The Elsie Franz Finley Simulated Health Center and the Nelson Family Simulated Ambulatory Care Center are designed to prepare graduate and undergraduate nursing students with hands-on and real-world experiences.
Campus Ministry
Portland Magazine
October 27, 2019
On a pilgrimage to El Salvador through the Office of Campus Ministry, University of Portland professors Maria Echenique and Karen Eifler met Tomasa, who shared with them her experiences during the Salvadoran Civil War (1979-1992).
Alumni
Athletics
Portland Magazine
October 26, 2019
Rob Conner has been coaching track and cross country at University of Portland for 30 years. Along the way he's trained numerous All-Americans, tallied 34 conference titles, and led the men's team to three podium finishes in the national championships.
College of Arts and Sciences
Alumni
Portland Magazine
October 25, 2019
Nathan Sherfinski '05 spent the summer of 2010 answering calls to the White House Comment Line--an experience that taught him the art of listening.
Biology
Athletics
College of Arts and Sciences
Portland Magazine
October 25, 2019
Brianne Zbylicki '20 was making a name for herself on UP's rowing team and in the biology research labs. When cancer struck, she took a year off from sports and studies. Upon her return to campus, she found help and unwavering support in teammates, professors, and coaches.
Portland Magazine
October 25, 2019
Charlie Harris grows the uncommon--but deliciously infamous--Oregon Star tomatoes on his Flamingo Ridge Organic Farm in Gaston, OR. The tomatoes make their way to University of Portland each summer and star in several dishes served up in the Bon Appetit eateries on campus.
Political Science
Portland Magazine
College of Arts and Sciences
October 25, 2019
Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) delivered the first-ever talk in Brian J. Doyle Auditorium. This is an excerpt of some of his remarks on voting and life in politics and as a public servant.
Portland Magazine
October 24, 2019
Physics professor Shannon Mayer extols the virtues of writing in margins of beloved texts.
Study Abroad
Biology
College of Arts and Sciences
Theology
Portland Magazine
Chemistry
October 24, 2019
For five summers, University of Portland has sent an interdisciplinary team of student and faculty researchers to an archeological dig site in Pollentia, Mallorca, Spain. Representing all areas of study at the University--from chemistry to theology and business to library science--members of UP PURE have gotten out in the field and done the slow, often back-aching, knee-crunching, centimeter-by-centimeter work of excavating artifacts of an ancient Roman city.
President
October 21, 2019
Missing student Owen Klinger is believed to have died. University of Portland mourns his passing. Masses in his memory will be offered Monday evening in campus residence halls and Tuesday at 12:05 p.m. in the Chapel of Christ the Teacher.
Awards and Rankings
October 15, 2019
The University of Portland has been named the best college in Oregon for value in an annual ranking released by MONEY Magazine, a Time Inc. publication. MONEY’s 2019-2020 Best Colleges rankings and search tools are designed to help families find a great college at a great price.
October 14, 2019
When she needs to get away, Annie Kaffen travels to "go in"--not "get out"--and finds surprising insights.
International Languages and Cultures
October 7, 2019
The University of Portland will play a screening of the film “Hailing Cesar,” in the Brian J. Doyle Auditorium on Thursday, October 10 at 5 p.m. Eduardo Chávez, director, writer, and producer of this film, will be in attendance to have a live discussion.
President
October 4, 2019
After more than 35 years as an instructor, administrator, professor and leader at the University of Portland, Provost Dr. Thomas G. Greene will conclude his career with retirement at the end of the current 2019-2020 academic year.
Portland Magazine
Business
Engineering
September 26, 2019
Two years after a devastating fire in the Columbia River Gorge, Pamplin School of Business economics professor Ruth Dittrich—an expert in the economics of climate change adaptation—and a team of students spent the summer conducting research to help the US Forest Service better understand where to focus trail maintenance and rehabilitation efforts.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
September 20, 2019
The old pile had to go, yes, but saying good-bye came a little harder than most of us expected. An ode to UP's gym-auditorium-swim center-intramural facility that graced campus from 1928 to 2017.
Portland Magazine
September 20, 2019
Fr. Claude Pomerleau, CSC, a longtime political science professor at University of Portland, died on July 21. Fellow Holy Cross priest Fr. Patrick Hannon, CSC '82, and former student Hank Smith '03 offer remembrances.
Nursing
September 20, 2019
University of Portland School of Nursing dean Casey Shillam, associate dean Lindsay Benes, and assistant professor Kelly Fox have received a $50,000 grant from Rita & Alex Hillman Foundation. This grant will support their project “Nurses Leading Change in Palliative Care for the Houseless with Serious Mental Illness.”
Dundon-Berchtold Institute
President
September 18, 2019
The University of Portland has officially opened the new Dundon-Berchtold Hall, its latest example of instructional and scholarly investment. The building is the culmination of a multi-year philanthropic commitment by Amy Dundon-Berchtold, a member of the UP Board of Regents, and her husband Jim Berchtold, UP Class of 1963.
Theology
September 17, 2019
University of Portland theology professor, David Turnbloom, will give a lecture on “Sacramental Justice and the Mission of Holy Cross,” Thursday, September 19 at 7:15 p.m. in Franz Hall Room 120. The talk is free and open to the public.
Awards and Rankings
Engineering
September 10, 2019
University of Portland’s Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering was ranked 26th in the nation in the 2020 U.S. News & World Report Best Undergraduate Engineering rankings released this week. The Shiley School of Engineering is ranked among universities schools whose highest engineering degree offered is a bachelor's or master's.
Awards and Rankings
September 8, 2019
University of Portland is now ranked second out of 113 institutions listed in the “Regional Universities – West” classification – its highest ranking to date – according to U.S. News & World Report. In the 2018 and 2019 rankings, the University placed sixth in the same “Regional Universities – West” category.
Garaventa Center
September 3, 2019
Renowned author and Pulitzer Prize winner Marilynne Robinson will present the 2019 Zahm Lecture “Wisdom and Knowledge” on Wednesday, September 11, at 7:15 p.m. in the Chiles Center. Robinson will speak about wonder and the absolute necessity of the humanities, faith and reason as partners in understanding our world.
President
August 27, 2019
In his annual speech to University of Portland faculty and staff to open the academic year, Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., president, discussed funding and enrollment issues facing higher education institutions in general and offered remarks on the state of affairs at UP and a preview of priorities for the year to come.
Residence Life
Admissions
August 21, 2019
First-year students arrive on campus and move into residence hall on Thursday, August 22 beginning at 9 a.m. Students and their family members will be greeted by returning students at all nine of the residence halls with welcome signs and decorations as they carry in suitcases, comforters, computers, and other comforts from home.
Awards and Rankings
July 29, 2019
According to Kiplinger's Best College Values 2019, the University of Portland is the top ranked private university in Oregon for offering the best value for students based on academic quality, cost, and financial aid measures. The University was ranked 51st last year, rising three spots in the latest rankings among all private universities nationwide.
President
July 22, 2019
Holy Cross priest and University of Portland professor Rev. Claude Pomerleau, C.S.C., passed away on the morning of Sunday, July 21. After a long battle with cancer, Fr. Pomerleau resided for the last month at the Holy Cross nursing home in Notre Dame, Indiana. During this time, he enjoyed many meaningful visits with family and friends that gave him deep peace as he passed from this life.
Engineering
Awards and Rankings
July 15, 2019
Shiley School of Engineering mechanical engineering professor Heather Dillon has been named Fulbright Canada Research Chair in STEM Education by Fulbright Canada. Dillon will test a STEM faculty peer observation protocol at the University of Calgary from August to December 2019.
President
July 9, 2019
Michael E. Lewellen has been appointed to the newly formed position of vice president for marketing and communications. He will lead the offices of marketing and communications, public affairs, and printing and mailing services effective July 15.
Awards and Rankings
Development
July 1, 2019
The University of Portland was among institutions recognized for their work by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).
Portland Magazine
Mathematics
College of Arts and Sciences
June 25, 2019
What language would God use to describe the laws of nature? Mathematics, of course.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
June 24, 2019
Katherine Gamble rose to fame on the junior marksmanship circuit after an improbable perfect debut. She leaned into a carefully curated competition persona, but despite her successes, she questioned her place in the sport and her ambitions.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
Franz Center
June 21, 2019
University of Portland's Entrepreneur Scholars program is turning 20. More than 300 students have participated in the program. Some ideas are still going strong; some have lived a full life; some flopped and inspired the next idea. Here are stories of five alumni from the program.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
Franz Center
Engineering
June 21, 2019
Devin Ajimine recently graduated from University of Portland. He credits the Entrepreneur Scholars program with teaching him how to travel globally, network, and communicate clearly. Now a product manager at T-Mobile, Devin is also pursuing a master's in human centered design and engineering.
Alumni
Communication Studies
Franz Center
Portland Magazine
June 20, 2019
Molly (Sexton) Gowan '00, created an executive management seminar for parish priests for her Entrepreneur Scholar project. After graduation, she founded her own company and eventually found her way to corporate sales, noting that entrepreneurial skills are beneficial in every career.
Franz Center
Business
Portland Magazine
Alumni
June 20, 2019
Entrepreneur Scholar alum Thomas Iwasaki '14 designed a customizable bluetooth speaker for his project and went on to a career at Nike. He's now the co-creator of Usonia, a business data company.
Portland Magazine
Business
Philosophy
Alumni
Franz Center
International Languages and Cultures
June 20, 2019
A life-long user of crutches, Vail Horton knew first-hand the need for an ergonomic crutch. With a team of fellow Entrepreneur Scholar students at University of Portland, he founded Keen--an innovative crutch company. He now runs a non-profit.
Alumni
Engineering
Portland Magazine
International Languages and Cultures
Franz Center
June 20, 2019
A 2015 graduate with degrees in engineering management and Spanish, Fatima Ruiz Villatoro's Entrepreneur Scholar student project of decorating hospital rooms for terminally ill children turned into a career project managing medical facility construction.
Engineering
Franz Center
June 20, 2019
The University’s new campus-wide minor in innovation will be led by Salvador Orara, who has been hired as a Franz Center professor of practice. Orara’s experience includes UX (user experience design) roles and considerable teaching experience.
Portland Magazine
Environmental Studies
College of Arts and Sciences
Theology
June 19, 2019
Russ Butkus combined his theological background with a passion for protecting the environment during this 34 years at University of Portland. Along with Steve Kolmes, he founded the environmental studies majors on campus, writing an award-winning textbook along the way.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
June 19, 2019
University of Portland's Praying Hands War Memorial is the only marker on U.S. soil for alum John H. Carroll, Jr., who perished in World War II. His family only recently discovered its existence.
Portland Magazine
Alumni
Business
Athletics
June 17, 2019
After Travis Vetters successfully donated a kidney to his friend and baseball teammate Gus Little, the connection between them remains strong.
Social Work
Alumni
Portland Magazine
College of Arts and Sciences
June 17, 2019
When Itzel Moreno-Vega noticed that many of the students at Cesar Chavez School in North Portland were coatless during the winter months, she turned to Operation Warm to provide coats to every single student.
Education
Alumni
Portland Magazine
June 17, 2019
Under the mentorship of Bonnie Robb ('95, '01 MEd, '16 EdD), Dylan Hite '19 used best practices in neuroeducation to help second graders at Duniway School in Portland understand and learn new concepts.
Garaventa Center
Portland Magazine
June 17, 2019
In March 2019, Christopher Pramuk, Chair of Ignatian Imagination and Thought at Regis University, came to University of Portland and spoke to a packed room in Franz Hall. What follows is an excerpted version of his talk, “Amazing Grace: Diversity, Deep Listening, and the Anatomy of a Song.”
Portland Magazine
Athletics
June 16, 2019
A last-minute entry into the French Cross Country Championships earns Emmuanel Roudolff-Levisse his first national title--a feat also accomplished by his father more than three decades ago.
Portland Magazine
June 14, 2019
Writer Philip Metres asks (and answers), "Why, in spite of the betrayals of my Church, do I keep coming back?"
College of Arts and Sciences
Biology
June 10, 2019
University of Portland biology professor Ami Ahern-Rindell has been awarded the Council on Undergraduate Research Biology Division Mentor Award (Advanced Career), a national award that honors biology mentors for their long-term efforts in supervising undergraduate research students.
Athletics
Portland Magazine
Alumni
June 7, 2019
University of Portland alumni and former Pilot soccer stars Megan Rapinoe '08 (USA), Christine Sinclair '06 (Canada), and Sophie Schmidt '10 (Canada) are set to lead their countries on the world stage at the Women's World Cup, June 7-July 7 in France.
Business
June 5, 2019
The Pamplin School of Business will present “Wine, Beer & Spirits: Portland’s Past, Present & Future” on Wednesday, July 24 from 4-7 p.m. at Cerulean Winery (1439 NW Marshall St). The event is sponsored by the Bauccio Lecture series.
College of Arts and Sciences
Biology
Environmental Studies
Chemistry
May 31, 2019
The University of Portland College of Arts and Sciences has received three grants totaling $178,427 from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust to support scientific research and education.
Awards and Rankings
Psychology
College of Arts and Sciences
May 28, 2019
Andrew Guest, chair of the department of psychological sciences, has been awarded a Fulbright U.S. Scholar grant to spend the 2019-2020 academic year teaching and doing research at Mwenge Catholic University in Moshi, Tanzania.
Shepard Academic Resource Center
May 13, 2019
The University of Portland received a First Forward Designation from the Center for First-generation Student Success for its commitment to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation (FGEN) college students.
Awards and Rankings
Mathematics
May 10, 2019
University of Portland mathematics professor Hannah Highlander has been awarded the 11th Annual Sigma Xi Outstanding Researcher Award, given annually by the Columbia-Willamette Chapter of Sigma Xi, the international scientific research honorary society.
Performing and Fine Arts
Mathematics
Chemistry
History
Theology
Philosophy
Business
May 8, 2019
The University of Portland’s 2018-2019 Faculty Awards were presented on Tuesday, May 7, at the annual Faculty Awards Dinner.
Commencement
May 6, 2019
The University of Portland celebrated its Commencement on Sunday, May 5, with 1,116 graduates who earned degrees from the Shiley School of Engineering, the Pamplin School of Business, the School of Education, the School of Nursing, and the College of Arts & Sciences.
Franz Center
May 3, 2019
The Franz Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation’s annual $100K Challenge Venture Competition took place on Saturday, April 27.
Performing and Fine Arts
College of Arts and Sciences
May 2, 2019
Mead Hunter retires from the PFA theater department after seven years. He has loved teaching undergraduate students at UP because he learns from them while he's teaching. He will miss the UP family, and miss his students most of all.
Alumni
Awards and Rankings
May 2, 2019
Four University of Portland alumni will be individually recognized as Alumni Award recipients at this year’s President’s Awards Gala. Mike Irwin ’78, Margarita Bautista Gay ’87, Molly Craft Johnson ’13, and Cathryn Casey ’19 will be recognized for embodying the University’s mission.
English
May 1, 2019
English professor Matthew Minicucci is the winner of the 2019 Oregon Book Awards Stafford/Hall Award for Poetry for his collection titled Small Gods.
Alumni
Business
Communication Studies
April 26, 2019
Three UP alumni are featured in the Portland Business Journal’s annual “Forty under 40” list. This list features the “game-changers, move-makers and forces of the future” executives in the Portland area.
Alumni
Political Science
Portland Magazine
April 25, 2019
Walter Thompson-Hernandez ’09 is a member of the “Surfacing” team at The New York Times, which features stories about underrepresented communities and subcultures around the world. Walter was a contributor to the Winter 2019 issue of Portland Magazine. We caught up with Walter to ask him a few more questions about his fascinating work and his time at UP.
Portland Magazine
Moreau Center
April 25, 2019
Lauren Urbina '20, a participant in the North Portland Civil Rights Immersion in October 2018, took an internship at Village Gardens in the New Columbia Neighborhood of North Portland. Lauren talks about her experiences at this community partner.
Commencement
April 25, 2019
Former U.S. Ambassador Mary Carlin Yates, who grew up in North Portland, will address 1,131 students and their families on Sunday, May 5 at the Chiles Center at the University of Portland.
April 22, 2019
The memorial service for Deputy Justin DeRosier will be held on Wednesday, April 24 at 1 p.m. in the Chiles Center. Deputy DeRosier was killed in the line of duty while on patrol in Cowlitz County, Washington. The University is expecting capacity crowds with hundreds of uniformed officers and friends in attendance that day.
Engineering
April 17, 2019
Shiley School of Engineering alum Khalid Osman ’16 has received a prestigious Ford Foundation Fellowship. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in construction engineering and project management from the University of Texas, Austin, Osman will receive three years of support through the fellowship.
Awards and Rankings
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
April 16, 2019
The University of Portland, a leader among its peer institutions in producing Fulbright U.S. Student Program participants, has announced that five students have been named finalists for the 2019 awards to teach English, do research, or attend graduate school abroad.
Engineering
April 15, 2019
University of Portland president, Fr. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C. has announced that Matthew R. Kuhn, Brother Godfrey Vassallo, C.S.C. Professor of Civil Engineering, will serve as interim dean of the Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering beginning June 30 until a permanent successor is named. Kuhn has requested that he not be a candidate for the permanent position.
Business
April 12, 2019
The Pamplin School of Business Education Series will present “The Business of Real Estate” on Thursday, April 18, 4 -7 p.m., at Pilot Wealth Management (601 SW 2nd Avenue, Suite 1930).
Performing and Fine Arts
April 9, 2019
‘Pippin’ April 10 – 14, 7:30 p.m. and April 14, 2 p.m. A theatrical ensemble arrives, having found someone to play Pippin in “Pippin, His Life and Times.” Young Prince Pippin longs to find passion and adventure in his life. Along the way he discovers the true meaning of magic, happiness, glory, love and war in this iconic and unforgettable musical comedy.
Engineering
April 8, 2019
Shiley School of Engineering dean Sharon Jones has accepted a position at University of Washington Bothell as vice chancellor for academic affairs effective July 2019.
Engineering
April 8, 2019
U.S. Highway 101 is world-renowned as a scenic marvel situated close to the Oregon coast, wending its way some 300 miles between the north and south boundaries of Oregon. But that scenic beauty comes at a cost: 101 crosses at least 14 coastal river estuaries on fill, not bridges, disrupting salmon runs, bird migration, and natural water flow.
Engineering
April 8, 2019
Tucked in a corner of University of Portland’s physical plant building, you can find innovation leader Edmund Stilwell of Hyster-Yale Group Inc., surrounded by work stations, rolling whiteboards, and student interns who drop in and work on projects as their schedules allow.
Engineering
April 8, 2019
Through the Multiple Engineering Cooperative Program (MECOP), Elias Paraiso ’19 was based in Daimler’s IT infrastructure department and worked on a wide range of software projects relating to server configuration, automation, web-development, and robotics.
Engineering
April 8, 2019
As a participant in the Civil Engineering Cooperative Program (CECOP), Abbey Hill ’20 spent the last six months at NW Natural supporting the management of two construction projects.
Engineering
April 8, 2019
With offices in more than 100 countries, BIOTRONIK is a global leader in developing innovative medical technologies to support cardiovascular and endovascular health. Fortunately, for University of Portland students, one office is located just outside the city of Portland and company engineers Eric Austin and Habib Homayoun ’79 BSEE, ’81 MSEE, agreed to sponsor capstone projects with the Shiley School of Engineering.
Nursing
April 2, 2019
The University of Portland School of Nursing was ranked as the top school in Oregon to earn an undergraduate degree in nursing by NursingDegrees.com. This honor follows a study that looked at factors such as tuition, student to faculty ratio, and student services.
International Languages and Cultures
College of Arts and Sciences
April 1, 2019
The University of Portland will host renowned oil painter Claudio Talavera Ballón at Buckley Auditorium on April 3 at 7:15 pm. This talk will address the relationship between art and social issues, such as migration.
Business
March 25, 2019
The University of Portland’s Pamplin School of Business was ranked best part-time MBA program in Portland by U.S. News & World Report. The Pamplin School of Business’ part-time MBA program is ranked #109 out of 475 possible schools, according to rankings released March 12.
College of Arts and Sciences
Biology
Environmental Studies
Chemistry
March 22, 2019
The College of Arts and Sciences has received four external grants for undergraduate research and projects. These grants will support faculty research and K-12 outreach work in the local community. Collectively, these individual grants total almost $180,000, with an additional $50,000 in matching funds contributed by CAS.
Awards and Rankings
March 20, 2019
University of Portland is ranked 9th nationally among peer institutions as a top producer of Peace Corps volunteers according to a study released by the agency today. UP currently has 12 alumni serving around the world. Since the Peace Corps’ founding in 1961, more than 220 University graduates have become Peace Corp volunteers.
Education
March 14, 2019
University of Portland School of Education alumnus David VanHoomissen ’81 was named the 2019 Kent School District Teacher of the Year. VanHoomissen currently teaches sixth grade at Emerald Park Elementary school and has taught within the Kent School District for 25 years.
Biology
March 5, 2019
The University of Portland has received a $30,000 grant from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust for a new biology faculty position. This grant is part of the New Faculty Start-up Grants program and is the fifth award that the Murdock Trust has made to support science faculty at UP since 2013.
Portland Magazine
Nursing
Recreational Services
February 22, 2019
Cassidy Smith '20 is a nursing major with a passion for rock climbing.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
Performing and Fine Arts
February 22, 2019
Michael O’Neill ’10 (MFA) travels the world with an international organization called Clowns Without Borders.
Alumni
Engineering
Portland Magazine
February 22, 2019
J'reyesha "Jay" Brannon '15 is a construction manager with the Portland Water Bureau and dedicated to mentoring young children and women of color in the engineering field.
Alumni
Engineering
Portland Magazine
February 22, 2019
Joel Rosinbum '04 is a software engineer for Black Locus in Austin, TX, and a member of the board of directors for USA Triathlon.
Portland Magazine
Biology
February 21, 2019
Biology and environmental studies professor Tara Prestholdt may have redefined the word “sabbatical” with a research trip on motorcycle from Portland to the southern tip of South America.
Alumni
Portland Magazine
February 20, 2019
The founder of Girls Build teaches girls to take on the trades with confidence, spunk, and imagination. Here’s what first inspired her to pick up a hammer.
Nursing
Portland Magazine
February 19, 2019
Tatjana Jerkovic-Walls '19 spent years working as an ER technician at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. With the help of the Ralph and Sandra Richardson Miller Endowed Scholarship, this working mom will soon graduate with a nursing degree from University of Portland.
Portland Magazine
February 18, 2019
Omar El Akkad, Portland-based author of the national bestseller American War, spoke at UP about the experiences that inspired him to write a novel about a young woman—an American refugee from the southern US—who radicalizes after a fictitious second civil war.
Awards and Rankings
Engineering
February 15, 2019
Shiley School of Engineering computer science professor Andrew Nuxoll has been named a Fulbright Specialist by the Fulbright Specialist Program at World Learning. Nuxoll will take part in a faculty exchange to Thailand for three weeks this July and will teach at Khon Kaen University. During his exchange, Nuxoll will be researching, teaching a workshop, and giving lectures on ethical issues in software and artificial episodic memory.
Performing and Fine Arts
February 14, 2019
‘Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead’ February 13-16, 7:30 p.m. and February 16, 2 p.m. In this “unauthorized parody” of an iconic comic strip, CB questions the meaning of life and death following the demise of his dog. His friends have their own problems and aren’t much help. But his interest in an artistic boy — the target of his group’s bullying — sets events in motion that propel teen angst to its very limits. The play explores mature themes that relate to growing up.
Business
February 12, 2019
The Pamplin School of Business was ranked #20 in the nation by Study.com as part of their Top 50 MBA Schools list. The University of Portland placed higher than any other school in Oregon. Selection for the list was based on academic and career resources for MBA students, the quality of education in business, faculty, and more.
Awards and Rankings
February 11, 2019
The University of Portland is one of the top producers of Fulbright awards in the nation among master’s level institutions, according to an annual study just released by the Chronicle of Higher Education. The University was ranked 4th nationally in student Fulbright awards for the academic year 2018-2019, with 5 students who have received the prestigious grant to study, conduct research, and/or teach English abroad.
Social Media
February 8, 2019
With the snowy forecasts in the weeks ahead, the social media team reached out to UP students and asked them what they need with them for a cozy, snowy day on The Bluff.
Garaventa Center
Residence Life
Library
February 7, 2019
Author Colum McCann’s 2009 novel Let the Great World Spin is the 2018-2019 selection for University of Portland’s annual ReadUP campaign and Schoenfeldt Distinguished Visiting Writers series. The lecture will take place in Buckley Auditorium on February 20, at 7 p.m. and is free, and open to the public. McCann will follow the lecture with a book signing.
Business
February 5, 2019
The Portland Business Journal recently named University of Portland instructor Shari Dunn as one of their “Executives of the Year.” Dunn is the executive director of Dress for Success Oregon, a nonprofit organization that provides a network of support, professional attire, and the development tools to help women achieve economic independence in work and in life.
Commencement
February 4, 2019
The University of Portland will award honorary degrees to Mary Carlin Yates, Amy Dundon-Berchtold, Susan Sygall, Mucki (Pei Ling) Tan '80, and Robert Watzke at its Commencement ceremonies Sunday, May 5, 2019. Sr. Alberta Dieker, OSB, will receive the Christus Magister Medal.
Portland Magazine
January 31, 2019
Psychology professor Sarina Saturn and postdoctoral student Deirdre Katz--along with 20 undergraduate research assistants--are studying babies, mothers, and grandmothers to measure inherited traits that are influenced by the life and circumstances of generations past.
Portland Magazine
January 31, 2019
University of Portland's first North Portland Civil Rights Immersion.
Portland Magazine
January 31, 2019
How one writer aims to complicate the narratives we think we know—and shine a warm light on those we don’t.
Garaventa Center
Political Science
January 29, 2019
The University of Portland will welcome William Chafe, author and emeritus professor of history at Duke University, on Monday, February 4 at 7:15 p.m. in Franz Hall Room 120.
Mathematics
College of Arts and Sciences
January 18, 2019
The Oregon Academy of Science (OAS) has announced Dr. Stephanie Salomone, University of Portland Associate Professor of Mathematics, has been awarded their 2019 Outstanding Educator Award for Higher Education.
Business
January 18, 2019
The University of Portland’s Pamplin School of Business will launch its first Women in Business Showcase on March 11, 2019, at the Portland Art Museum.
Portland Magazine
January 18, 2019
Last summer 12 UP faculty went on a pilgrimage to the birthplace of the Holy Cross order. Here is one pilgrim’s meditation on the man who started it all.
Student Activities
Awards and Rankings
December 21, 2018
The University of Portland was recently recognized by Campus Labs, a leading company that works with institutions to transform higher education through data and analytics, as a Rising Star in its annual awards program, for the innovative use of Engage, a program that enhances student engagement.
Student Activities
December 21, 2018
On December 3, the Columbia Scholastic Press Association announced The Beacon, the University of Portland’s student-run digital news publication, was one of 25 collegiate digital publications named finalists for a Crown Award for overall excellence in student journalism.
Development
December 18, 2018
The University of Portland established new records of charitable giving during the 24-hour event known as Giving Tuesday, November 27, 2018, including 741 gifts and a total raised of $194,744 —an 89% increase in total amount raised from 2017.
Awards and Rankings
Biology
Chemistry
Mathematics
Engineering
Physics
December 10, 2018
The University of Portland was recently ranked no. 18 in “The Top 25 STEM Colleges of 2018” by Forbes.com.
Nursing
December 4, 2018
University of Portland President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., announced today the appointment of Dr. Casey Shillam as Dean of the School of Nursing, effective December 1, 2018.
Study Abroad
December 4, 2018
University of Portland’s David Vargas Puga ’21 recently became one of only 22 students nationwide to receive a scholarship from Fund for Education Abroad, a program which focuses on making study abroad opportunities accessible to all students.
Performing and Fine Arts
November 21, 2018
The University Singers and the Women’s Chorale will ring in the holiday season with a selection of traditional songs at the Choral Christmas Vespers Concert on December 1, at 7:30 p.m., in the Chapel of Christ the Teacher at the University of Portland.
Awards and Rankings
President
November 15, 2018
Dr. Rami Nashashibi has been awarded the prestigious 2018 Opus Prize for his inspirational work as founder and director of the Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN) in Chicago, Illinois.
President
November 12, 2018
The public is invited to join the University of Portland community for a series of free events this week celebrating the three finalists for the 2018 Opus Prize, one of the world’s largest awards for faith-based social entrepreneurship.
Air Force ROTC
Army ROTC
November 9, 2018
The University of Portland Air Force and Army ROTC will conduct a 24-hour vigil in honor of Veterans Day, concluding with a commemoration ceremony on Sunday, November 11, at 11:00 a.m., at the Praying Hands/Broken Wall Memorial on the campus's East Quad.
Development
History
College of Arts and Sciences
Library
October 17, 2018
A Clark Library gallery dedicated to showcasing the University of Portland’s past has been named the Dr. James T. Covert Gallery in honor of the late James Thayne Covert, Ph.D., professor emeritus in history.
Development
Business
September 28, 2018
George E. Swindells ‘55, Regent Emeritus of the University of Portland and a longtime institutional supporter, passed away Wednesday, September 26 at the age of eighty-five.
Business
Alumni
September 27, 2018
Katherine Phillips Durham ’88 and Brian Dexheimer ’84 are the two newest inductees into the Pamplin School of Business Hall of Fame. They join 11 other Hall of Fame members. The Hall of Fame was created 2009 when the Pamplin School of Business celebrated its 75th anniversary.
Business
September 26, 2018
The University of Portland mourns the passing of one of its most ardent supporters and legendary figures when Dr. Arthur A. “Art” Schulte, Jr., died peacefully at his home on Monday, September 24, after a lengthy illness.
President
Development
September 13, 2018
Businesswoman and philanthropist Elsie Franz Finley, sister of the late Robert “Bob” Franz, passed away on August 14th at the age of 97. A Memorial Mass will be held for her on Tuesday, September 18th, at 2:30 p.m., in the Chapel of Christ the Teacher on the University of Portland campus.
Awards and Rankings
September 10, 2018
For the 24th consecutive year, the University of Portland has received a top-ten ranking by U.S. News & World Report, which today released its 2019 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings.
Social Media
September 6, 2018
To celebrate #ReadABookDay, we asked the UP Instagram community to tell us their favorite books. Here are 30 of their answers.
President
August 28, 2018
On Tuesday, August 28, University President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., delivered remarks at UP's Opening Convocation, the annual meeting of University faculty and staff.
President
August 24, 2018
On August 14, 2018, the Pennsylvania Attorney General released an Investigating Grand Jury report detailing the sexual abuse of minors within the dioceses of Pennsylvania and addressing the failures of those in leadership to meaningfully respond to misconduct.
Admissions
August 23, 2018
The University of Portland welcomes the Class of 2022 this week as first-year students arrive on campus and move into residence halls on Thursday, August 23.
Social Media
August 22, 2018
Earlier this week the UP Instagram community was asked what advice they have for #UP22. These are 22 of their responses.
Residence Life
August 17, 2018
Andrew Weingarten has been named director of residence life at University of Portland. He will begin his new duties on Monday, September 3.
Awards and Rankings
August 14, 2018
The University of Portland has been named the best college in Oregon for value in an annual ranking released today by MONEY Magazine, a Time Inc. publication.
Dundon-Berchtold Institute
President
August 14, 2018
Last week members of the UP community gathered together to sign and bless a beam that will be part of the new Dundon-Berchtold Hall, currently under construction in the heart of the University's campus.
Social Media
August 14, 2018
It's #WorldPhotographyDay and the first day of classes is right around the corner, so here are 10 photos that will remind you how beautiful The Bluff is.
College of Arts and Sciences
Biology
Engineering
Mathematics
Physics
Chemistry
August 6, 2018
Research reveals that students enjoy better success in creative, active learning environments versus traditional, lecture style classes. In a three-year National Science Foundation funded project, UP’s REFLECT team (Redesigning Education for Learning through Evidence and Collaborative Teaching) is informing STEM faculty (science, technology, engineering, math) about how to introduce student-centered, evidence-based learning methodology into their classrooms.
President
July 30, 2018
The University of Portland has made the decision to rescind the honorary degree conferred on former Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick in 2008.
Awards and Rankings
President
July 16, 2018
The three finalists for the 2018 Opus Prize, the $1 million award which recognizes individuals or organizations who address critical social issues within their communities, were announced today by the Opus Prize Foundation and the University of Portland.
Social Media
July 2, 2018
Robert Butler, environmental studies emeritus professor, was the lead geology instructor for the inaugural EarthScope Alaska Native Geoscience Learning Experience (ANGLE) Workshop in Anchorage, Alaska.
President
June 27, 2018
University of Portland President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., announced today that Rev. Gerard J. Olinger, C.S.C., Vice President for University Relations, has accepted a position as the University of Notre Dame’s Vice President for Mission Engagement and Church Affairs.
Awards and Rankings
Alumni
June 27, 2018
Bill Reed ’72, Katie Hughes ’02 and Tsikata Apenyo ’18 were individually recognized as recipients of University of Portland’s annual Alumni Awards on June 22, 2018. The Alumni Awards are presented annually to those individuals who embody the University’s mission of teaching and learning, faith and formation, and service and leadership in their life and work.
Sociology
June 22, 2018
According to a new study in the American Journal of Public Health, this year 1 in 4 high school girls will deliberately injure themselves by methods as extreme as cutting themselves or burning their own skin.
President
June 20, 2018
The University of Portland is guided by the Congregation of Holy Cross, a Catholic order of priests and brothers. Yesterday the United States Province Chapter passed a resolution on the Dignity of Migrant Families.
Biology
Mathematics
College of Arts and Sciences
Engineering
Psychology
Awards and Rankings
Alumni
International Languages and Cultures
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
Chemistry
June 19, 2018
University of Portland alumni Julia Meng '16, Shannon Danforth '16, Katherine Cummins '17, and Brett Bankson '14 have been awarded $34,000 Graduate Research Fellowships from the National Science Foundation to fund graduate tuition, fees, and research.
President
June 11, 2018
Dr. Elise Moentmann, Associate Dean for Students in the College of Arts and Sciences, has been appointed to the position of Associate Provost.
Performing and Fine Arts
June 7, 2018
Mocks Crest Productions will present The Light in the Piazza, a contemporary musical operetta based on a 1962 film of the same name, on June 9-10, 14-17, and 21-24.
Nursing
Development
May 10, 2018
In honor of Dr. Joane Moceri’s retirement as the dean of the University of Portland School of Nursing, an endowed scholarship for nursing students has been established in her name.
Commencement
May 7, 2018
The University of Portland celebrated its Commencement on Sunday, May 6 with nearly 1,200 graduates projected to earn degrees, making the Class of 2018 the largest graduating class in the University’s history.
Engineering
May 7, 2018
Shiley School of Engineering valedictorian Chris Hampel ’18 made the most of his time on The Bluff. From studying abroad in Austria to his active participation in on-campus life, Hampel looks back at his time at the University fondly and described commencement weekend as a “bittersweet” celebration of his time at UP.
Engineering
May 7, 2018
Trenton Langer ’18, who graduated with an electrical engineering degree and a computer science minor, was both honored and surprised when he was named the recipient of the Shiley School of Engineering Dean’s Award.
Engineering
May 2, 2018
Hyster-Yale Group design engineer Jimmy Anderson ’14 is working with mechanical engineering students to develop an alternative steering design for forklifts. The team hopes to create a smaller and less obtrusive steering wheel.
Franz Center
May 1, 2018
The Franz Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship and Innovation’s annual $100K Challenge Venture Competition took place on Saturday, April 28.
College of Arts and Sciences
Engineering
Alumni
May 1, 2018
Peter Chamberlain '14 is the founder of WalkSmart, a company developing mobile apps that gather information through devices attached to walkers. This information can be used to help families care for their elderly loved ones.
Business
April 25, 2018
Graduate student Shyla Spicer is about to become the first member of the Yakama Nation tribe of the Columbia River’s Wanapum people of Celilo Falls to graduate with a Master of Business Administration.
Engineering
April 25, 2018
Three electrical engineering students have teamed with Tektronix for their senior design project. With guidance from Tektronix principal engineer Kyle Bernard ’85 and electrical engineering professor Joe Ho beck, the team is working to locate a transmitter near the University’s campus using Tektronix RSA500 devices.
Awards and Rankings
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
April 24, 2018
The University of Portland, a leader among its peer institutions in producing Fulbright U.S. Student Program participants, has announced that five students have been named finalists for the 2018 awards.
President
April 23, 2018
Jessica Murphy Moo has been appointed editor of Portland magazine, the award-winning publication of the University of Portland.
President
April 17, 2018
An update regarding the "Wally" awards.
Student Activities
President
April 16, 2018
A message from ASUP.
Social Media
April 16, 2018
Check out some of the events happening on and off campus in celebration of Earth Day.
Army ROTC
April 12, 2018
The University of Portland's Army ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) program provides students with ample and diverse opportunities.
Social Media
April 12, 2018
The Office of Diversity & Inclusion will host a Community Town Hall focused on diversity, inclusion and bridging gaps between privilege and oppression tonight, April 12, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. The event will take place on the Quiet Side of the Commons and will include a panel of six faculty, staff and students who will add to the discussion.
President
April 9, 2018
Businessman and philanthropist D. Allen Lund of Pasadena, Calif. passed away on April 7, 2018. He was a longtime supporter of the University of Portland, a member of the University’s Board of Regents since 2001 and Board Chair from 2008-2017.
President
April 9, 2018
Joseph B. Allegretti, whose generosity enabled scores of students to attend the University of Portland on full scholarships, passed away on Friday, April 6 with his wife Helen and their family by his side.
Development
April 9, 2018
On April 4-5, 2018, University of Portland launched its first annual 24-hour of giving. Considered a great success, 2,771 donors gave a total of $683,263.
Campus Ministry
April 5, 2018
This Saturday, April 7, the United States Province of Priests and Brothers of the Congregation of Holy Cross will confer the Sacrament of Holy Orders on three new priests, including Deacon Timothy Robert Weed, C.S.C.
Performing and Fine Arts
April 3, 2018
The University of Portland 54th Annual Jazz Festival takes place April 11 and 12 as bands from all over the region come together to perform and express their love of Jazz music.
President
April 3, 2018
This April, Fr. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C. and the Presidential Advisory Committee on Sustainability (PACOS) are challenging the students, faculty, and staff of the University of Portland to make a commitment to take at least one tangible step that is within your own control toward increasing sustainability on campus.
Engineering
April 3, 2018
At Oregon Health & Science University, Dr. John Ma, chair of emergency medicine, is the co-founder with co-directors Dr. David Sheridan (’04, Biology) and Dr. Matt Hansen, of IDEA EM, a team of emergency medical physicians tasked with developing clinically relevant, and eventually commercial, medical innovations.
President
April 2, 2018
The University of Portland’s food service provider, Bon Appétit Management Company, will no longer provide plastic drinking straws in any food or beverage outlet on campus, effective April 18, 2018. UP is the first University dining service in the U.S. to successfully institute a campus initiative to ban plastic straws.
Social Media
March 21, 2018
Student club Active Minds is hosting their 2nd Annual Fresh Check Day tomorrow from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. on the Quiet Side of the Bauccio Commons. Fresh Check Day is a mental health fair that combines fun activities with educational information about mental health and suicide awareness. Last year UP became the first school in Oregon to host the event and over 300 UP students attended. We recently spoke with Active Minds President, Molly Thomas ’18, about the event and mental health.
President
College of Arts and Sciences
March 20, 2018
University of Portland President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., announced today the appointment of Dr. Herbert A. Medina as Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, effective July 1, 2018.
Nursing
March 15, 2018
The School of Nursing has launched a new nurse training program in partnership with nurses at Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center.
Athletics
Business
Alumni
March 15, 2018
University of Portland alumni Jim Etzel '85 (Marketing, Management & Communications) was recently announced as the new Executive Director of Oregon Sports Authority.
Shepard Academic Resource Center
March 15, 2018
The College Reading and Learning Association has recognized the University of Portland Learning Commons with a Level 1 International Tutor Training Program Certification.
Shepard Academic Resource Center
March 14, 2018
The Shepard Academic Resource Center’s (SARC) First Generation (FGEN) program recently launched a new peer mentorship program with the goal of providing all FGEN students with personalized support within the UP community.
Engineering
March 14, 2018
Sherrie Caltagirone founded the Global Emancipation Network (GEN), a Seattle-based nonprofit data clearinghouse that aims to eradicate human trafficking, in 2016. Sherrie knew her husband, Sergio, who works full-time for an industrial cybersecurity firm, could help GEN in uncovering the well-hidden online activities of human traffickers. Sergio, who earned degrees in computer science and theology from UP in 2003, also serves as GEN’s technical director.
College of Arts and Sciences
February 28, 2018
The E. John and Cleo Rumpakis Annual Scholarship in Hellenic Studies will award $2,000 per student to three students per year
President
February 27, 2018
35-acre riverfront development to include environmental lab, rowing center and dock, physical plant building, athletic fields and facilities
Social Media
February 27, 2018
You know those people who have kitchen cabinets filled with old pasta jars that they reuse as drinking glasses? Marie Jobes ’18 is one of those people. She is an Organizational Communication major, member of the Ecology Club, a passionate environmental activist and the founder of Fixit UP, an event that is combating the “toss-it” mentality.
Awards and Rankings
February 19, 2018
The University of Portland continues to be one of the top producers of Fulbright awards in the nation among master’s level institutions, according to an annual study just released by the Chronicle of Higher Education.
Engineering
February 19, 2018
Get Sadie Schroeter’s perspective on her internship in the Port of Portland's engineering department as she prepares to graduate this spring with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from University of Portland.
Social Media
February 13, 2018
To spread positive vibes this week we walked around The Bluff and asked Pilots to give themselves or someone else a compliment. This what they said.
Social Media
February 13, 2018
The Community Service Work Study (CSWS) Program helps University of Portland financial-aid students who have received a Federal Work-Study award to work off campus. Students have the opportunity to do valuable and rewarding work with the community while getting paid.
Commencement
February 6, 2018
The University of Portland has announced the guest speakers and the honorees to be recognized during the 2018 Commencement ceremonies, which will be held on the UP campus in the Chiles Center on Sunday, May 6.
Performing and Fine Arts
February 6, 2018
David De Lyser became PFA chair in January. He hopes to help continue to build the University’s department of performing and fine arts in both quantity of students participating and in the quality of student theatrical and musical performances, as well as student production of fine arts.
Social Media
February 1, 2018
Sometimes it's National Pizza Day and you just gotta have a slice of pizza...or two...or five.
President
January 29, 2018
A message from Fr. Mark Poorman, C.S.C., University president, to the UP community.
Social Media
January 11, 2018
In anticipation of her up-coming campus reading, I sat down with poet and esteemed UP alum, Sarah Bokich, to learn a bit more about her, her newest chapbook, and life after UP. You can peruse our exchange below. Come hear Sarah read from her newest publication on Thursday, February 8th at 7:30pm in the Campus Bookstore. Hope to see you all there.
Social Media
January 9, 2018
We recently caught up with Tyson Reddig ’19 of Actually Gavin Improv to talk about the renaming of the club, their plans for the semester and the art of improv. The improv club at UP has been ‘cracking jokes’ on The Bluff for over 12 years and currently has a rotating cast of 40 students.
Awards and Rankings
January 8, 2018
According to Kiplinger's Best College Values 2018, the University of Portland is the top ranked private university in Oregon for offering the best value for students based on academic quality, cost, and financial aid measures.
Engineering
January 3, 2018
Shiley School of Engineering alumna Jennifer Belknap Williamson ’01 loves to problem solve. As the engineering director for the Port of Portland, Belknap Williamson works with her team of 85 staff members to deliver solutions on a wide range of issues.
President
December 19, 2017
The University of Portland has selected 12 distinguished jurors who will meet next month to select the three finalists for the 2018 Opus Prize, a $1.2 million award given annually that recognizes individuals or organizations who are motivated by their faith to address persisting social problems within their communities.
International Student Services
December 19, 2017
Brother Fulgence Dougherty, C.S.C., former director of International Student Services at the University of Portland, passed away at age 95 on Sunday, December 17, 2017, after a lengthy illness.
Engineering
December 13, 2017
The UPMars STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering & Math] program recently hosted a day-long STEM camp for elementary school students in the Portland community.
Engineering
December 12, 2017
The Shiley School of Engineering held the first annual programming marathon known as "Game Jam," a competition challenging student and alumni programming skills.
Awards and Rankings
President
December 7, 2017
Six students and three faculty members have been selected to help determine the recipients of the 2018 Opus Prize, a $1.2 million annual award that recognizes individuals or organizations who address persisting social problems within their communities.
Theology
December 5, 2017
Rev. Richard Rutherford, C.S.C., theology professor emeritus, shares theories about why Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus on December 25, and about the possible beginnings of many traditional practices involved in celebrating Christmas.
Nursing
Theology
Awards and Rankings
Social Work
December 4, 2017
An award-winning project by three University of Portland faculty explores the question of how to train students to encounter profound pain and suffering.
Performing and Fine Arts
College of Arts and Sciences
December 1, 2017
The University of Portland's annual Advent Concert is always a highlight of the performance year, but this year’s concert will mark a special milestone, as concert director and long-time professor of music Dr. Michael Connolly, DMA, prepares to retire.
Franz Center
Alumni
Business
November 17, 2017
Entrepreneur and sports marketer Lynn S. Le ’11, has been named to Forbes Magazine’s “30 Under 30 Retail and E-Commerce Class of 2018.”
Business
Awards and Rankings
November 13, 2017
The Pamplin School of Business’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at the University of Portland has been named to the Princeton Review’s list of Best Business Schools 2018.
Awards and Rankings
November 9, 2017
The University of Portland Air Force and Army ROTC will conduct a 24-hour vigil in honor of Veterans Day, concluding with a commemoration ceremony on Saturday, November 11, at 11 a.m., at the Praying Hands/Broken Wall Memorial on the campus's East Quad.
College of Arts and Sciences
History
November 6, 2017
Christin Hancock, associate professor of history and gender and women studies, and chair of UP's history department, notes that recent efforts at protest and reform, like taking a knee during the National Anthem, have been active aspects of American democracy since the founding of the U.S.
Performing and Fine Arts
College of Arts and Sciences
Development
October 26, 2017
The family of the late Bonnie Toon-Sweeney ’94, a longtime figure in the Portland theater community, has endowed a $50,000 scholarship in her name that will assist students studying theater at the University of Portland to complete their degrees.
Awards and Rankings
Social Work
October 5, 2017
The Association for Community Organization and Social Administration (ACOSA) recently recognized University of Portland student Emma Martinez ’18 with the prestigious 2017 Outstanding Student Award, given to students majoring in social work who are making a difference in their community.
Business
Development
Nursing
September 22, 2017
Portland businessman Michael E. Nelson ’76, a member of the University of Portland Board of Regents, and his wife Arlette have made a $10 million gift to enhance the campus infrastructure and support academic programs, the University announced Friday.
President
Dundon-Berchtold Institute
Admissions
Development
September 21, 2017
On September 21, 2017, a groundbreaking ceremony was held on the site of the new academic building, Dundon-Berchtold Hall. The hall is scheduled for completion in January 2019.
Business
Alumni
Performing and Fine Arts
September 20, 2017
Actor and alumnus Kunal Nayyar '03, currently staring in the hit CBS television comedy The Big Bang Theory, returns to the University of Portland for a public conversation on October 11.
September 15, 2017
The Congregation of Holy Cross, United States Province of Priests and Brothers bestows a 2017 Spirit of Holy Cross award posthumously upon the late Brian Doyle, former editor of Portland Magazine.
Engineering
Awards and Rankings
September 14, 2017
Shiley School of Engineering was ranked 29th nationally in the 2018 U.S. News & World Report Best Undergraduate Engineering rankings.
Awards and Rankings
September 12, 2017
For the 23rd consecutive year, the University of Portland has received a top-ten ranking by U.S. News & World Report, which today released its 2018 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings.
Nursing
September 8, 2017
Joanne Olsen, director of master’s programs in the School of Nursing, has held many positions in her nursing career. With experience in nursing, leadership, and hospital administration, Olsen is committed to producing insightful nurses through the School of Nursing master’s programs.
Nursing
September 5, 2017
Mother and daughter Lynne and Kelly Slauson, share a love of nursing and a passion for helping others. Not only are Lynne ’84 and Kelly ’16 both graduates of UP’s School of Nursing, they also work together as advocates for rheumatoid arthritis, a condition Kelly has been diagnosed with since she was a baby.
Awards and Rankings
Chemistry
Physics
Biology
Mathematics
Engineering
August 28, 2017
The University of Portland has received a $300,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to improve teaching environments for undergraduate students in STEM classes by increasing student-centered, evidence-based learning methodologies.
Admissions
Residence Life
August 24, 2017
The University of Portland welcomes the Class of 2021 as freshmen move into the dorms on Thursday, August 24. At approximately 1,018 students, the new freshman class is the second-largest in University history.
Moreau Center
August 22, 2017
Over 120 University of Portland students, including freshmen and transfer students, arrived early on campus this week to volunteer at local schools, parks and non-profit organizations during the Moreau Center’s annual Service Plunge, August 22-23.
Education
Environmental Studies
August 18, 2017
Dr. Robert Butler, Professor Emeritus of Environmental Studies at the University of Portland, has developed a new online course, “Cascadia Earthquake Education,” designed for K-12 educators and others who teach children about the Cascadia Subduction Zone and the science behind the earthquake that could someday devastate the region.
Awards and Rankings
Moreau Center
Campus Ministry
Student Activities
August 11, 2017
The Princeton Review has ranked the University of Portland fifth in the nation among colleges and universities whose students are making a positive impact in their communities through volunteer service, on-campus engagement, and other meaningful contributions.
Engineering
Development
July 25, 2017
The University of Portland has received a $25,000 grant from the Esco Foundation of Portland for the development of an interdisciplinary makerspace in the Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering.
Awards and Rankings
Athletics
Alumni
July 25, 2017
Christine Sinclair '06, former UP soccer powerhouse was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada, one of Canada's highest honors, second only to membership in the Order of Merit which is a personal gift of Queen Elizabeth II.
International Languages and Cultures
July 24, 2017
Seven University of Portland graduates have been awarded International Government Teaching Awards in 2017, according to the University’s international languages and cultures department. All will be serving in English teaching assistantships (ETAs) during the 2017-2018 academic year.
Nursing
July 20, 2017
University of Portland nursing major Kyle Doty receives American Psychiatric Nurses Association Scholarship
Health Center
July 18, 2017
Carol Dell'Oliver Hired as Health & Counseling Center Director effective August 2
Admissions
July 17, 2017
As part of Oregon Private College Week, the University of Portland is joining 11 other private, nonprofit colleges and universities across the state in welcoming hundreds of prospective students and their families to campus July 24-28.
Chemistry
Development
College of Arts and Sciences
July 14, 2017
Sr. Angela Hoffman, O.S.B., professor of chemistry at the University of Portland, was recently awarded $15,000 from M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust’s Partners in Science program.
President
July 7, 2017
A message from the president on the University's commitment to environmental stewardship.
Nursing
Awards and Rankings
June 28, 2017
University of Portland School of Nursing dean Joane Moceri was named the 2017 Outstanding Alumna of the University of Washington Tacoma's Nursing & Healthcare Leadership Program in June.
Engineering
June 20, 2017
The Shiley School of Engineering will be welcoming five new faculty to campus this August.
Nursing
June 12, 2017
The University of Portland’s School of Nursing has this week received accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities for two new Master of Science (MS) programs for health care professionals.
Business
June 7, 2017
The University of Portland’s Pamplin School of Business has been awarded the Seven Seals Award for their support of military personnel.
Performing and Fine Arts
June 5, 2017
Mock’s Crest Productions will present Gilbert and Sullivan’s beloved operetta of mistaken identity, “The Pirates of Penzance,” in the Mago Hunt Center Theater at the University of Portland (9000 N. Willamette Blvd., Portland) on June 9-11, 15-18, and 22-25.
May 27, 2017
The University of Portland lost a beloved member of our community when Brian Doyle, award-winning author and editor of Portland magazine for 25 years, passed away early this morning, May 27, 2017 from complications related to a brain tumor.
Admissions
May 26, 2017
Eight students from New Mexico will attend the University of Portland on a full ride scholarship this upcoming fall, thanks to the Davis New Mexico Scholarship, which provides access to higher education for students who will be first in their families to earn a four-year college degree.
Engineering
May 25, 2017
Alumnus David Allstot ’69 has accepted a faculty position as a senior research professor at Oregon State University’s School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Allstot graduated with a bachelor’s degree in engineering science from the University of Portland in 1969.
Engineering
May 22, 2017
The Shiley School of Engineering is proud to honor three retiring professors. Professors James Male, Wayne Lu, and Zia Yamayee retired at the end of the spring 2017 semester.
Dundon-Berchtold Institute
President
May 12, 2017
The University of Portland has been selected to host the 2018 Opus Prize, a $1 million annual award which recognizes individuals or organizations who address critical social issues within their communities.
Engineering
May 9, 2017
When Christine Chen ’17 arrived at the University of Portland, she had no experience in programming or calculus. Four years later, Chen has graduated from the Shiley School of Engineering as valedictorian with a degree in computer science.
Engineering
May 8, 2017
Civil engineering graduate Reyn Stisher ’17 is the Shiley School of Engineering’s 2017 Dean’s Award recipient.
May 6, 2017
University of Portland was ranked the top Oregon school for best return on investment among 300 private and public institutions in Forbes Magazine's second annual ranking of America's Best Value Colleges for 2017. The Pamplin School of Business Master of Business Administration program has been ranked highest of Oregon institutions that offer part-time MBA programs by U.S. News & World Report Best Grad School rankings.
Awards and Rankings
May 5, 2017
The University of Portland has been ranked the top Oregon school for best return on investment among 300 private and public institutions in Forbes Magazine's second annual ranking of America's Best Value Colleges for 2017.
Engineering
May 2, 2017
Students from the Shiley School of Engineering participated in the Franz Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation’s annual $100K Challenge Venture Competition, held at the University of Portland on Saturday, April 29.
Commencement
May 1, 2017
Celia Hammond, the first female president of the University of Notre Dame Australia (UNDA), will address the 2017 University of Portland Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 7 at the Earle A. and Virginia H. Chiles Center on the University campus, 5000 N. Willamette Blvd..
Franz Center
May 1, 2017
A record 36 teams participated in the Franz Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation’s annual $100K Challenge Venture Competition, held at the University of Portland on Saturday, April 29.
Engineering
May 1, 2017
Civil engineering graduate Ashley Martinez ’17 was awarded a prestigious Fulbright student grant and will be moving to Mexico City this Fall.
Engineering
April 28, 2017
Electrical engineering student Quentin Ward ’17 was one of 60 students from around the country to present research at the annual Posters on the Hill event in Washington, D.C.
Franz Center
April 26, 2017
A virtual farmers market. A new way to store and charge your smart phone. A program which makes learning math fun for high school students. Low glycemic snack bars for diabetics. These are just a few of the business ideas which will be presented by promising entrepreneurs competing in the Franz Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation’s annual $100K Challenge Venture Competition, at the University of Portland on Saturday, April 29.
College of Arts and Sciences
Performing and Fine Arts
Awards and Rankings
April 25, 2017
Three students from the Department of Performing & Fine Arts (PFA) at the University of Portland were awarded national fellowships at the 49th Annual Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival, held April 17-22 at the John F. Kennedy Center of the Performing Arts in Washington DC.
Chemistry
Nursing
Biology
Philosophy
April 21, 2017
The University of Portland bioethics team won the 2017 Bioethics Bowl by defeating Georgetown University in the finals. In only the second year competing, the UP team was undefeated in the Bioethics Bowl.
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
Awards and Rankings
April 20, 2017
The University of Portland, a leader among its peer institutions in producing Fulbright U.S. Student Program participants, has announced that seven students have been named finalists for the 2017 awards to teach English, do research, or attend graduate school abroad.
Student Activities
April 20, 2017
The Beacon, the University of Portland student newspaper, recently won six First Place awards in the regional Society of Professional Journalists’ (SPJ) Mark of Excellence competition for college journalism.
International Languages and Cultures
College of Arts and Sciences
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
April 20, 2017
The German Studies Program and Department of International Languages and Cultures is pleased to announce three awardees of the DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) University Summer Course Grants for intensive German language learning in Germany this summer.
Education
April 19, 2017
The University of Portland’s School of Education Doctor of Education in Leading and Learning (EdD) has earned two national honors for its innovative programming and research partnerships, including a Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) designation and a national Research Partnership affiliation.
Awards and Rankings
Business
Communication Studies
Alumni
April 3, 2017
Patricia (Pat) K. Johnson, a member of the University of Portland’s Board of Regents, will be honored this April by the Portland Business Journal at the 14th Annual Women of Influence 2017 Awards.
Awards and Rankings
Business
March 17, 2017
The University of Portland’s Pamplin School of Business Master of Business Administration (MBA) program has been ranked 84th in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, which today released its 2017 U.S. News & World Report Best Grad School rankings. The Pamplin School of Business is ranked highest out of Oregon institutions that offer part-time MBA programs.
Engineering
March 13, 2017
The University of Portland’s Shiley School of Engineering has been accepted into the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) Grand Challenge Scholars Program, a combined curricular and extra-curricular program with five components that are designed to prepare students to be the generation that solves the grand challenges facing society in this century, according to Sharon Jones, Shiley dean of engineering.
College of Arts and Sciences
Performing and Fine Arts
March 6, 2017
A group of 38 University of Portland students and five faculty spent February 20-24 at the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival for a week of competitions, workshops and performances, and seven students received awards and honors.
Dundon-Berchtold Institute
February 28, 2017
At the University of Portland’s annual State of UP luncheon today, University president Rev. Mark L. Poorman C.S.C. unveiled the plans for Dundon-Berchtold Hall, a new academic center with over 63,000 sq. ft. of classrooms, offices, auditorium, career center, and the Dundon-Berchtold Institute.
Engineering
February 27, 2017
Shiley School of Engineering students Alec Kauffman, Jean Paul Mugisha, Jeremy Revlock, and Elizabeth Rowe have completed University Innovation Fellows training offered by Stanford University' Hasso Plattner Institute of Design.
Nursing
February 23, 2017
Professors Lorretta Krautscheid and Laura Mood, UP students, and researchers from University of Tennessee in Knoxville are studying ways to help student nurses improve resilience and prevent burnout.
Awards and Rankings
February 22, 2017
The University of Portland continues to be one of the top producers of Fulbright awards in the nation among master’s level institutions, according to a study released by the Chronicle of Higher Education.
Commencement
February 20, 2017
The University of Portland has announced the honorees to be recognized during the 2017 Commencement ceremonies, which will be held on campus in the Chiles Center on Sunday, May 7.
College of Arts and Sciences
February 20, 2017
University of Portland president Fr. Mark L. Poorman C.S.C. has announced Dr. Gary Malecha, professor of political science, will serve as the interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) from July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018.
Awards and Rankings
February 9, 2017
The John Burroughs Association announced today that Brian Doyle, editor of the University of Portland’s Portland magazine, has been selected as the winner of the 2017 John Burroughs Medal for distinguished nature writing for his book Martin Marten, published by Macmillan Publishers in 2015.
Engineering
February 9, 2017
The University of Portland’s acclaimed Shiley School of Engineering has become the first institution of higher education in Oregon to join the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network (KEEN), a small group of universities working together to help engineering students graduate with an entrepreneurial mindset.
College of Arts and Sciences
Library
English
Residence Life
Garaventa Center
February 3, 2017
Acclaimed author Anthony Doerr will speak at the University of Portland about his award-winning novel, All the Light We Cannot See, at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, February 27 in the Buckley Center Auditorium.
President
January 30, 2017
On Saturday, January 28, President Donald J. Trump announced significant changes to immigration policies affecting people from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. These changes have, understandably, raised concerns and created anxiety for many in the University of Portland community.
Nursing
January 25, 2017
The School of Nursing’s Learning Resource Center will be undergoing major changes in the upcoming year. Comprised of a 3-phase development plan, nursing students will see upgrades to existing facilities as well as new spaces in the already state-of-the art model hospital and outpatient clinic labs.
Awards and Rankings
January 19, 2017
For the seventh consecutive year, the University of Portland was the top Oregon school in Kiplinger's Personal Finance annual ranking of best values in its private universities category for 2017. The University of Portland was ranked 58th nationwide among all private universities.
Residence Life
Awards and Rankings
January 19, 2017
All members of the University of Portland community are invited to celebrate the Feast Day of Blessed Basil Moreau, C.S.C., founder of the Congregation of Holy Cross, on Friday, January 20, at 5 p.m., at Mass in the Chapel of Christ the Teacher. Sr. Sue Bruno, O.S.F., Fields Hall Director, will be formally honored as a recipient of the 2016 Spirit of Holy Cross Award, the highest honor bestowed by the Congregation upon its lay collaborators.
January 6, 2017
Howard Hall open January 6-13 for people displaced by SW Alder St apartment fire.
Environmental Studies
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
Study Abroad
College of Arts and Sciences
December 13, 2016
Four University of Portland College of Arts and Sciences students have won national and international awards recently.
Athletics
December 13, 2016
The University of Portland sits atop the West Coast Conference Commissioner’s Cup standings after a historic fall season on The Bluff.
Engineering
December 13, 2016
Shiley School of Engineering professor Shazib Vijlee is working to develop a one-semester pre-engineering course for seniors from De La Salle North Catholic High School who are interested in pursing engineering careers.
Nursing
December 13, 2016
University of Portland associate nursing dean Susan Stillwell has been selected to join the Nursing Board at the American Health Council.
Nursing
December 12, 2016
The School of Nursing is proud to announce the creation of the Alumni Steering Committee. The group, comprised of 10 members, aims to connect nursing alumni back to the University, support new nursing graduates, and give back to the local community.
Environmental Studies
December 9, 2016
The University of Portland lost a dear friend and colleague when Fr. Ronald Wasowski, C.S.C. passed away unexpectedly of an apparent heart attack or stroke on Monday evening, December 5.
Engineering
December 6, 2016
The Shiley School of Engineering recently sent student teams to compete in the 2016 Pacific NW Regional Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) Programming contest as well as the William C. Kloos Traffic Bowl this past month.
Engineering
December 5, 2016
Alumnus Mark Pillers ’83, ’86 never imagined he would spend the better part of his successful engineering career, going on 35 years, in the “frigid Midwest.” The University of Portland graduate (B.Sc. ME 1983, M.Sc.ME 1986) is the Vice President for Cab Sales and Marketing at Crenlo, Inc., in Rochester, Minnesota, a company best known for designing and manufacturing industrial and agricultural vehicle cabs for OEM (original equipment manufacturer) clients such as Caterpillar and John Deere.
Engineering
November 30, 2016
Senior civil engineering majors Antonia Molina and Jacob Whitfield each received a 2016 Douglas P. Daniels/Coral Sales Company Scholarship.
Engineering
November 22, 2016
Civil engineering professor Mehmet Inan was interviewed by KOIN channel 6 about the earthquake in Fukushima, Japan on Monday, Nov. 21.
College of Arts and Sciences
Mathematics
Awards and Rankings
Athletics
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
November 18, 2016
University of Portland senior Parkes Kendrick has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship. If successful, Kendrick will become the first University of Portland student to be named a Rhodes Scholar.
Nursing
November 14, 2016
The School of Nursing will add two new master's programs: a master’s of science in innovation in health systems and a master’s of science in quality and safety in health systems. Both master’s programs, which will begin during the Fall 2017 semester, can be completed in five semesters, including one summer session, with online courses and several on-campus immersion sessions.
Environmental Studies
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
November 14, 2016
Two University of Portland science students brought home the top two awards in the Earth & Environmental Sciences category at the Sigma Xi Student Research Symposium Nov. 4.
November 8, 2016
The Praying Hands/Broken Wall Memorial on the University of Portland campus is the site of the 2016 Veterans Day ceremony, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m.
Alumni
Engineering
November 7, 2016
Eric Daniel Arakawa '02 has been presented with the 2016 Edmund Friedman Young Engineer Award for Professional Achievement.
Alumni
Business
November 7, 2016
UP alumna Monica Enand ’05, MBA in finance, received the Entrepreneurial Achievement Award during the Oregon Entrepreneurial Network's 2016 Tom Holce Entrepreneurship Awards on October 26. Enand was one of 20 finalists chosen from 141 nominees.
Franz Center
November 4, 2016
The University of Portland and the Franz Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship and Innovation will welcome Dan Wieden, co-founder & chairman of Wieden+Kennedy, on Wednesday, November 16 at 7 p.m. in the Bauccio Commons on campus.
Nursing
November 1, 2016
For mother/daughter pair, Mary and Katie Stempel, the University of Portland is more than just a university; it’s where they both found their passion for helping others. Not only did Mary ’78 and Katie ’15 both graduate from UP’s School of Nursing, they happen to both work in women’s services and volunteer their time with the organization Faith in Practice.
Athletics
October 28, 2016
The eighth-ranked Portland women's team won the 2016 West Coast Conference Cross Country Championship on Friday, while junior Lauren LaRocco ran away from the field to win the individual title at Mission Bay Park. The No. 12 Portland men also had a solid showing at the WCC's, finishing second only to No. 4 BYU.
Development
October 27, 2016
After interviewing a group of nine active duty military veterans undergoing treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, Fr. Richard Berg, CSC wrote a fictional story incorporating the soldiers’ stories and his own research. The resulting novel, Scars, was published by Corby Books, Lakeville, Ind., in 2013. The book has converted to a stage play by scriptwriter Roccie Hill and producer John Beaulieu and will be premiered on January 24, 2017, at 7 p.m., during the Fertile Ground Festival, held January 19-29 at Lakewood Center for the Arts in Lake Oswego, Ore.
College of Arts and Sciences
History
Alumni
October 18, 2016
James Thayne Covert, Ph.D., professor emeritus in history at the University of Portland, died at his home on Thursday, October 13, of complications from a stroke. He was 84 years old.
Business
Franz Center
October 18, 2016
University of Portland senior finance major Michael Williamson was awarded runner up in his category for his business venture, Sentri Performance, at the finals of the University Start-Up World Cup, held Friday, October 7, in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Engineering
October 11, 2016
The University of Portland's Shiley School rises in prominence among schools of engineering as it builds a reputation for drawing women and underrepresented minorities.
Moreau Center
Awards and Rankings
October 11, 2016
The Corporation for National and Community Service has announced the 2015 award winners for the annual President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, and the University of Portland has been named once again.
Athletics
October 5, 2016
The Pilot women's cross country team notches its highest national ranking in program history.
Engineering
October 3, 2016
The Shiley School of Engineering held a Summer Project Showcase in September to highlight industry-based research projects completed by students.
Awards and Rankings
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
October 3, 2016
Taylor Zehren '16 was awarded UP's first student Fulbright to Argentina. He is the seventh UP student to accept a Fulbright award for 2016-2017.
Athletics
October 1, 2016
Pilot student athletes demonstrate academic excellence, with 39% of all Pilot athletes earning Dean's List recognition in the fall of 2016, with representatives from every UP athletic team.
Engineering
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
September 28, 2016
Cara Poor, civil engineering professor, and her team of two students recently finished their project “Sustainability of Ecoroofs: An Evaluation of Runoff Water Quality from Ecoroofs in the Portland Area.”
Engineering
Education
Nursing
Business
Awards and Rankings
September 12, 2016
For the 22nd consecutive year, the University of Portland has received a top-ten ranking by U.S. News & World Report, which today released its 2017 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings. The University is 7th out of 124 institutions listed in the “Regional Universities – West” classification.
Admissions
September 12, 2016
University of Portland welcomed the Class of 2020 as freshmen moved into the dorms on Thursday, August 25. It is among the largest, most diverse and academically gifted classes in school history.
Development
Alumni
September 12, 2016
The family of the late Kyle E. Johnson ’05 has expanded their bequest to a memorial scholarship named in his honor. Keith Johnson and his wife informed the University of an additional gift of approximately $1.5 million to the Kyle E. Johnson Memorial Scholarship. The funds will be held in trust and will transfer to the University as part of Keith Johnson’s estate.
Garaventa Center
September 12, 2016
The 2016 Zahm Lecture in American Catholic Education will take place on Thursday, September 22, at 7:15 p.m., in Buckley Center Auditorium. Sr. Ilia Delio, OSF, a Franciscan Sister and American theologian specializing in the area of science and religion, will present “Cosmology, Catholicity and Consciousness: Why Wholeness Matters” on Thursday, September 22, at 7:15 p.m., in Buckley Center Auditorium. The Zahm Lecture is free and open to all.
Nursing
Awards and Rankings
September 8, 2016
UP nursing program ranked no. 4 in the West, no. 46 in US by NursingSchoolsAlmanac.
Alumni
Physics
Engineering
Development
August 29, 2016
University of Portland alumnus and longtime benefactor Donald T. Galarneau ’49 passed away on Saturday, August 20 after a sudden illness. A Portland native, Don generously gave the University $1.5 million during his lifetime, including matching gifts from General Electric (GE), for whom he worked his entire career.
Moreau Center
August 23, 2016
More than 150 students volunteer at 11 local Portland service agencies as part of University of Portland Moreau Center's annual Service Plunge.
Education
August 15, 2016
Jennifer Snow Mayo, a 2016 graduate of the University of Portland’s School of Education doctorate program, was recently named a 2016-2017 Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow. Mayo is one of 13 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) teachers chosen from throughout the nation to receive the esteemed fellowship.
Development
Alumni
August 12, 2016
Robert W. Franz, longtime regent, friend, and donor leaves his legacy as philanthropist for Franz Hall, Franz Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and Franz Chair in Entrepreneurship.
Student Affairs
July 27, 2016
Matthew Rygg joins UP as associate director for student affairs, overseeing residence life, student activities, the Moreau Center and Career Center.
Mathematics
Biology
Engineering
Physics
Awards and Rankings
Chemistry
July 26, 2016
UP ranks no. 18 in Forbes.com's list of top STEM schools.
Awards and Rankings
July 12, 2016
The University of Portland has been named the best college in Oregon for value in a ranking released today by MONEY Magazine, a Time Inc. publication. MONEY’s annual Best Colleges rankings and search tools are designed to help families find a great college at a great price.
Development
Athletics
June 24, 2016
Portland businessman and philanthropist Earle M. Chiles passed away on Thursday, June 23 after a long illness. He was 83. Chiles was a longtime supporter of the University of Portland and had been a member of the University’s Board of Regents since 1975.
Alumni
Athletics
June 24, 2016
Riley Clark ’16 won a Northwest Emmy Award for his video, “University of Portland Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Raises Money for St. Baldrick's Foundation.”
Athletics
June 16, 2016
Reid Buchanan, Woody Kincaid and Lauren LaRocco win All-American honors at NCAA track & field championships.
Alumni
Education
June 10, 2016
University of Portland alumnus Mike Merzenich ’64 has been awarded the 2016 Kavli Prize in Neuroscience by the Norwegian Academy of Science for his work in documenting the fundamental plasticity of the human brain.
Library
June 10, 2016
Xan Arch joins University of Portland as dean of the Clark Library, replacing Drew Harrington who retired after 10 years at UP.
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
Awards and Rankings
International Languages and Cultures
May 16, 2016
Kealey Johnson '16 and Douglas Blair '15 were awarded French Teaching Assistantships by the French Ministry of Education
Residence Life
Development
May 6, 2016
A new gift commitment from Allen and Kathleen Lund brings their lifetime commitment to the University of Portland to $10 million. In recognition, the new residence hall will be named Lund Family Hall.
Alumni
Engineering
May 4, 2016
Dennnis L. Hartmann, a 1971 graduate of the University of Portland's mechanical engineering program and a professor of atmospheric sciences at University of Washington, is one of 84 new members and 21 foreign associates elected as a fellow of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences.
Commencement
April 29, 2016
Tim Boyle and Fedele Bauccio will give Commencement addresses; Allen and Kathleen Lund will receive the Christus Magister medal; and honorary doctorates will be presented to Eleanor Blum,Rev. Robert S. Pelton, C.S.C., Cathy Rush, Steve Shepard, and Ron Thomas.
Franz Center
April 28, 2016
Sentri Performance wins the for-profit venture competition with an innovative outdoor hoodie and Pro Social wins the social enterprise category for its focus on connecting non-profits with potential volunteers via social media.
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
Awards and Rankings
April 28, 2016
Seven Fulbright finalists have been awarded English Teaching Assistantships (ETAs) in Germany, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, and Turkey.
April 28, 2016
Lauretta Frederking has been named associate provost effective July 2, 2016. She will work in the areas of Title IX, faculty contracts and support, special projects, and summer school administration while serving on the Dean’s Council and the President’s Leadership Cabinet.
Nursing
April 27, 2016
As part of academic nursing’s ongoing efforts to combat prescription drug and opioid abuse across the United States, the University of Portland’s School of Nursing is proud to announce that it has committed to educating its advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) students on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain. The commitment was featured in a White House fact sheet today as part of the White House Champions of Change event on Advancing Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery.
Student Affairs
Awards and Rankings
Student Activities
April 22, 2016
The University of Portland’s student-run weekly newspaper, The Beacon, has won four regional Mark of Excellence Awards from the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) and advances to the national competition in the following categories: General News Reporting, In-Depth Reporting, Online Sports Reporting, and Photo Illustration.
Awards and Rankings
Library
March 8, 2016
Collections technology librarian Bonnie Parks has been named the 2016 recipient of the Ulrich’s Serials Librarianship Award for her distinguished contributions to serials librarianship. The Association for Library Collections & Technical Services division of the American Library Association makes the award each year to a leader in the field.
Commencement
February 26, 2016
Allen and Kathleen Lund head the list of honors at the 2016 Commencement ceremonies. The Lunds will receive the University's highest honor, the Christus Magister Medal.
Engineering
Development
February 23, 2016
University of Portland has received a gift from engineering alumnus Dick VanGrunsven '61, for $30,000 to establish a new term professorship in the Shiley School of Engineering. Over the three-year term of the project, mechanical engineering professor Timothy Doughty will have the title “The Richard and Diane VanGrunsven Professor of Engineering.”
English
Awards and Rankings
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
Sociology
February 23, 2016
University of Portland ranks fourth among peer institutions for number of student Fulbrights and ties for second among peers for faculty Fulbrights.
February 5, 2016
Some 160 high school and college students competed in the regional competition. Seven UP students qualified for the regional finals, including three students who placed first.
Awards and Rankings
February 1, 2016
For the sixth consecutive year, University of Portland was the top Oregon school in Kiplinger's Personal Finance annual ranking of best values in its private universities category. University of Portland was ranked 51st nationwide among all private universities, up from 65th in 2014-2015.
Nursing
January 15, 2016
Nursing professor Amber Vermeesch has been selected as one of eight participants from around the nation for the 2016 American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Faculty Policy Intensive program. She will also be recognized as an AACN Faculty Policy Fellow.
Engineering
January 11, 2016
University of Portland Shiley School of Engineering has received three separate grants totaling $45,000 for undergraduate student research projects dealing with environmental and sustainability issues. The research involves collaboration with other schools and organizations, and each project is funded by a $15,000 grant from the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges & Universities (The Alliance) and the Katherine Bisbee II Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation.
Awards and Rankings
Campus Ministry
Garaventa Center
January 9, 2016
Karen Eifler, co-director of the Garaventa Center for Catholic Intellectual Life and American Culture will receive the Spirit of Holy Cross Award for her contributions to the work of the Congregation of Holy Cross.
Business
Awards and Rankings
January 7, 2016
Isaac Mansuetti, Lance Chee and Connor Ward finished second in the 2015 AICPA Accounting Competition, held recently in Durham, North Carolina. The UP students’ finish earned a $3,000 award for the University and a $10,000 award to be split among team members.
Mathematics
December 16, 2015
University of Portland, working with Impact NW and the Portland Metro STEM Partnership, has secured a $75,000 grant from Work Systems, Inc.
Business
Awards and Rankings
December 15, 2015
Sam Holloway, a professor in the University of Portland’s Pamplin School of Business, has received the Ascendant Scholar Award from the Western Academy of Management.
December 7, 2015
Five recent University of Portland graduates have signed on for one-year service positions with Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) and JVC Northwest.
Awards and Rankings
Biology
December 2, 2015
University of Portland biology professor Elinor Sullivan has been awarded a $3.7 million Research Project Grant (R01) from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
Awards and Rankings
International Languages and Cultures
College of Arts and Sciences
December 1, 2015
Laura McLary, professor of German at the University of Portland, was named Oregon Professor of the Year by the national Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the international Council for the Advancement and Support of Education.
Engineering
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
November 17, 2015
Two University of Portland engineering students have been named University Innovation Fellows by the National Center for Engineering Pathways to Innovation.
President
November 14, 2015
University of Portland President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., has announced the appointments of Rev. Gerard Olinger, C.S.C., as vice president for University relations, and of Rev. John Donato, C.S.C., as vice president for student affairs.
Awards and Rankings
Sociology
Social Work
October 28, 2015
Alice Gates, a faculty member of the University of Portland’s sociology and social work department, is this year’s winner of the Marie O. Weil Outstanding Scholarship Award, co-sponsored by the Association of Community Organizations and Social Administration (ACOSA) and Taylor & Francis Publisher.
Sociology
Awards and Rankings
October 7, 2015
University of Portland sociology professor Martin Monto has received the Hugo Beigel Award for Scholarly Excellence
Human Resources
September 28, 2015
Sandy Chung has been appointed director of human resources for the University of Portland, according to Alan Timmins, vice president for financial affairs.
Business
Alumni
Portland Magazine
Athletics
Nursing
September 24, 2015
Gus Little was in desperate need of a kidney transplant. His former baseball teammate Travis Vetters gave him one. Is this the ultimate University of Portland "story"? Editor Brian Doyle says yes.
President
Dundon-Berchtold Institute
Development
September 22, 2015
University of Portland President Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., announced a $15 million commitment from Board of Regents member Amy Dundon-Berchtold and Jim Berchtold ’63.
Garaventa Center
Awards and Rankings
September 16, 2015
Karen Eifler, a professor in the University of Portland’s School of Education and co-director of the Garaventa Center for Catholic Intellectual Life and American Culture at UP, has received a 2015 Spirit of Holy Cross Award.
Engineering
Awards and Rankings
September 3, 2015
Mark Kennedy, University of Portland civil engineering professor and associate dean for the Shiley School of Engineering, has received the 2014-2015 Oregon Engineer of the Year Award from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).
Awards and Rankings
President
September 2, 2015
For the 21st consecutive year, University of Portland has received a top-ten ranking by U.S. News & World Report, which today released its “2016 America’s Best Colleges” publication.
Health Center
September 1, 2015
Margaret Trout ’97 has been appointed director of the Health Center for the University of Portland, announced Rev. Gerard Olinger, C.S.C., vice president for student affairs.
Admissions
August 27, 2015
University of Portland welcomed the Class of 2019 as freshmen moved into the dorms Thursday, August 27.
Awards and Rankings
Environmental Studies
August 24, 2015
University of Portland environmental science professor Robert F. Butler has received the Neil Miner Award from the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT).
Moreau Center
August 13, 2015
More than 100 University of Portland freshmen and transfer students to arrive early at school and volunteer in the local community Aug. 25-26.
Development
Residence Life
July 27, 2015
University of Portland has announced plans to construct a new residence hall with room for approximately 270 students.
Development
Business
Athletics
July 20, 2015
University of Portland has received a $100,000 gift from alumnus John N. Becic, who graduated in 1952 with a degree in accounting.
Education
July 7, 2015
University of Portland and the Pacific Alliance for Catholic Education (PACE) are launching the Catholic School Leadership Initial Administrator License program this summer.
Engineering
Development
July 6, 2015
University of Portland alumnus Donald T. Galarneau, a 1949 University graduate, has donated $50,000 to the Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering for the purchase for a high speed camera.
Nursing
July 1, 2015
Beginning July 1, Joane Moceri is now serving as dean of the University of Portland’s School of Nursing.
Business
Development
Franz Center
June 30, 2015
The University of Portland has received a $75,000 gift from Elizabeth Cebula, whose family has long and supportive ties to the University. Cebula’s gift will help fund the Entrepreneur Scholars Program and the Pamplin School of Business (PSOBA) Dean’s Leadership Initiative.
Recreational Services
Development
June 25, 2015
University of Portland has announced a $100,000 gift from Dick Ebersol to help fund the Beauchamp Recreation & Wellness Center, currently under construction and named in recognition of President Emeritus Rev. E. William Beauchamp, C.S.C.
Dundon-Berchtold Institute
June 15, 2015
David Brooks, a columnist for The New York Times, analyst on PBS’ Newshour and National Public Radio’s All Things Considered, frequent contributor on Meet the Press, and author of The Road to Character, will speak at the University of Portland on March 16, 2016.
Business
June 9, 2015
Students anywhere in the world can now learn the art and science of marketing by studying the craft beer industry through the second online course offered by the University of Portland’s Pamplin School of Business.
Study Abroad
June 8, 2015
Eduardo Contreras, Jr., has been appointed Director of Studies Abroad for the University of Portland, announced Thomas G. Greene, Provost and Professor of Education.
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
Awards and Rankings
May 22, 2015
University of Portland French studies students Britta Geisler, Rubama Nasir, and Julia Maynard have been granted teaching assistantships in France, according to French instructor Trudie Booth, international languages and cultures.
President
Awards and Rankings
May 22, 2015
University of Portland is one of the most environmentally responsible colleges in the United States and Canada, according to The Princeton Review.
Development
President
May 5, 2015
The University of Portland has begun renovation of the Pilot House, which historically housed the campus bookstore and a small dining area and lounge.
Sociology
Awards and Rankings
English
May 3, 2015
Two University of Portland professors have received prestigious Fulbright grants to teach overseas, according to the U.S. Department of State and the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board.
Commencement
April 30, 2015
Addressing graduating students at the University of Portland 2015 spring commencement Sunday, Larree Renda, former executive vice president of Safeway, Inc., stressed the importance of attitude in responding to positive and negative moments in the future.
Franz Center
April 28, 2015
University of Portland students Nick Ost and Paul Dilley placed first in the for-profit business category of the $100K Challenge Venture Competition, an expanded business plan competition hosted by the University’s Franz Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation.
Recreational Services
Development
April 17, 2015
University of Portland has announced a grant of $500,000 from M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust for the Beauchamp Recreation & Wellness Center, currently under construction and named in recognition of former University President Rev. E. William Beauchamp, C.S.C.
Awards and Rankings
Study Abroad
April 13, 2015
University of Portland is ranked 14th nationally among its peer institutions in students studying abroad for a long-term duration, defined as more than one academic semester.
Awards and Rankings
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
History
Communication Studies
English
April 13, 2015
University of Portland, a leader among its peer institutions in producing Fulbright scholars for several years, has announced that six students have been awarded prestigious Fulbright grants to work and study abroad.
Commencement
April 6, 2015
University of Portland will hold its 2015 spring commencement exercises on Sunday, May 3 at 1:30 p.m. at the Earle A. and Virginia H. Chiles Center on campus, 5000 N. Willamette Blvd.
Engineering
Awards and Rankings
Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement
March 30, 2015
Chika Eke, a senior majoring in mechanical engineering, has been awarded a prestigious graduate research fellowship from the National Science Foundation.
Student Activities
Awards and Rankings
March 19, 2015
University of Portland student newspaper, The Beacon, won the Apple Award for "Best Newspaper" for colleges/universities with fewer than 5,000 students.
Engineering
March 18, 2015
University of Portland’s Shiley School of Engineering is one of 122 schools who signed a letter of commitment presented to President Barack Obama announcing a plan to educate a new generation of engineers expressly equipped to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing society in the 21st century.
President
March 4, 2015
University of Portland president Rev. Mark L. Poorman, C.S.C., will give his first annual “State of the University” address and present the 2015 Alumni Awards on Tuesday, March 17.
President
Awards and Rankings
February 19, 2015
University of Portland is ranked 20th nationally among its peer institutions in producing Peace Corps volunteers, according to a study released today. The University has regularly placed among the top 20 since 2010.
Campus Ministry
January 19, 2015
Rev. James Gallagher, C.S.C., has been appointed Director of Campus Ministry at the University of Portland, effective July 1, 2015.
Awards and Rankings
Business
January 11, 2015
Four University of Portland accounting students won the regional round of the KPMG Case Competition, held in Chicago, Ill., January 17-18.
President
Awards and Rankings
January 6, 2015
For the fifth consecutive year, University of Portland was the top Oregon school in Kiplinger’s Personal Finance annual ranking of best values in private colleges and universities.
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