Tiana Gilliland is a first-generation student who grew up in Grant Pass, Oregon. Tiana’s journey to SOU is a brilliant testament to the profound impact of higher education on students who earnestly carve their own path toward academic excellence.
Sue and Mike Collins are driven by a commitment to community, education, and philanthropy. Their journey is a blend of shared experiences, professional accomplishment, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the world around them.
Bryan DeBoer ’89, values the deep-rooted significance of a regional public university like SOU. He understands the out-sized role it can play in a geographic region, recognizes the importance of having a thriving school from which to draw future employees, and leans into “the possible” when organizations come together to solve larger issues.
Mayra, a first-generation college student, is dedicated to the pursuit of education and aspires to contribute to the field as an elementary or middle school teacher, a dream she’s had since she was very young.
Kayla Dumore wanted to stay close to home when she was thinking about college. Since she grew up in Central Point and graduated from Crater Renaissance Academy, place was an important factor in her decision making. She chose SOU as a way to stay close to family and also because of one of her influential mentors, Native American Studies faculty member Brent Florendo, guided her toward SOU as an exceptional educational choice.
Learning never exhausts the mind, as Leonardo Da Vinci famously said, and for Nikita Bazarsky, current SOU Business student, this is a true statement that exemplifies the tremendous opportunity SOU has offered him to explore new pathways. Nikita’s experience at SOU showcases the phenomenal impact scholarships can have on students.
Dennis Slattery’s connection to SOU spans over four decades. He has not only been a cornerstone of the university but a shining example of how a sustained commitment to exceptional teaching and generosity can transform the lives of SOU students.
Konaway Nika Tillicum is an overnight academic camp for Native American students in grades 7 to 12 held on SOU’s campus each summer. Students from across the Northwest travel to engage in a range of lectures, cultural experiences, recreational activities, and classes with tribal leaders. For nearly 30 years, this unique program has been making a profound impact on the lives of young Indigenous students, providing them with academic support, cultural understanding, and a strong foundation to navigate the challenges of higher education.
Morgan Ulu knew she wanted to go to college, but it wasn’t until an SOU delegation came to American Samoa that she knew it was a real possibility and in reach. Since then, Morgan has flourished as a leader to her peers and American Samoan community. As a ROTC Commander, she looks over 50 cadets while also working as a building lead at the SOU Recreation Center. She is preparing to commission as a Second Lieutenant Officer this summer.
Robby Running grew up in Hood River and thought for sure he was going to college to become a dentist. All of that changed for him when he took an organic spectroscopy class at SOU, and his world opened up. That’s the magic of what happens in the classroom at SOU. The path to discovery looks different for each student, but the opportunities are everywhere you look. Robby had the innate curiosity—and eager mind that many SOU students have—to venture into the exploratory nature of the sciences. Following that curiosity led him to an exciting path of career advancement.