Criminology Scholarship Follows Career in Law Enforcement
SOU alumni often share that the university’s environment created pivotal moments that shaped their future, and that is just what happened with Lee Erickson ’71. For Lee, that “aha” moment happened during a recruiting visit by an Oregon state police officer. After testing the water as a summer cadet on the Oregon coast, Erickson began a 30-year career in law enforcement and public safety following graduation.
New Exchange Program to Bring Global Opportunity to SOU
Matt Essieh ’82 MBA ’84 came to SOU as a young student unaware that his academic experience would lead him to find his true purpose in life. Matt grew up in a small rural farming community in Ghana where many did not have access to education. As luck would have it, he was chosen from 40 students in his class to attend a high school supported by three Peace Corps volunteers. Upon completion of that education, one of those volunteers—whose family lived in Grants Pass—facilitated his travel to southern Oregon where he enrolled at SOU.
Scholar. Athlete. Changemaker: How Philanthropy Fuels Real-World Learning at SOU
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.
Pedaling Towards Purpose: How Donor Support is Revolutionizing Outdoor Education at SOU
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.
Critical Scholarships Guide Danni Neis to Advocacy and Graduation
As an Olsrud scholar and Psychology major, Danni Neis’ journey through higher education is anything but traditional. She is a mother, an advocate, in recovery, and a first-generation college student.
From First-Generation College Student to Future Officer
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.
SOU’s Innovation & Leadership Program: A Catalyst for Community and Career Growth
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.
DeArmond Foundation Supports Working Students
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.










