At SOU, the Outdoor Adventure Leadership (OAL) Degree program highlights a blend of academic learning and immersive outdoor experiences. This offers students an incredible opportunity to learn leadership skills amid the natural landscapes of our region.
Franco Fasoli, who is graduating with a B.S. in Economics, was initially drawn to SOU for its robust program in his field of interest, coupled with a competitive soccer program—an ideal convergence that spoke to his aspirations.
Annabell Delgado, a first-year student and Lithia & Driveway Scholar at SOU, is making a name for herself as a first-generation college student while juggling work, school, and her passion for criminal justice.
Southern Oregon University’s Innovation and Leadership (INL) program has made a significant impact on the local community since its inception in 2015. Designed to cater to working professionals, the program offers a flexible, interdisciplinary curriculum that equips students with the skills necessary to excel in leadership roles.
Bob DeArmond was a philanthropist at heart—his passion was to give back to his community and champion initiatives that uplifted others. Along with Leona, his wife of 65 years, the DeArmonds were a driving force for good in the Rogue Valley. Their belief in the power of education was profound, and they dedicated themselves to creating opportunities for young people to succeed.
Kristy Henshaw Denman’s journey from a Willamette Valley farm to a passionate supporter of Southern Oregon University exemplifies the power of family and its influence on one’s aspirations. Growing up on the family farm near Brownsville, Kristy found inspiration in music, a passion ignited by her father. It was a love for music and children that led her to SOU, where she pursued a degree in education with a music specialist concentration.
Ian Ingram, a computer science student and scholarship recipient at SOU, has committed himself to understanding and promoting the responsible use of artificial intelligence. As an SOU student, he is passionate about driving community innovation.
Kierstin isn’t your average first year SOU student. While scouting the field as a catcher for SOU’s softball team, she’s also a dedicated Biology major, eager to learn the intricacies of the scientific discipline. Kierstin came to SOU not just for the academics, but because of the vibrant campus community that SOU offers to students.
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.