½ðɳÓéÀÖ

As he retires after 30 years at ½ðɳÓéÀÖ, Distinguished University Professor of Music and Director of Bands Michael Burch-Pesses reflects on his academic career and 63 years in music between ½ðɳÓéÀÖ and the U.S. Navy.

Dr. Dijana Ihas, Professor of Music, was awarded the Long Term Achievement in Research Award by the American String Teachers Association at their annual conference in Atlanta, GA, in March 2025. This award is considered the highest honor in the country for strings research, and Ihas is the first recipient of this award from a small private university.

The heart of ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University’s College of Optometry lives in our students, faculty, and the proud alumni who have become leaders in the profession. For the College of Optometry Advisory Council’s alumni spotlight, we spoke with Dr. Nate Lighthizer to hear how ½ðɳÓéÀÖ helped shape his journey as an optometrist. Now serving as Dean at Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry (NSUOCO), Dr. Lighthizer is mentoring the next generation, advancing clinical education, and playing a pivotal role in expanding the scope of optometric practice across the country.

½ðɳÓéÀÖ University's Music Department presents four concerts this April and May, including the final performances for its bands under the direction of Michael Burch-Pesses.

When Tom Orr MSAT '23 was looking for a graduate program, he knew that he wanted hands-on experience. The opportunity to intern with the Portland Winterhawks during his final semester at ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University led him to a rival team and a new career in the Western Hockey League.

½ðɳÓéÀÖ University's Bachelor of Social Work Program helped Celine Yip '16 discover her purpose in serving those experiencing homelessness in New York.

The ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University Alumni Association Board of Representatives convened recently, welcoming two new members and tackling a range of critical university matters, including food insecurity and upcoming changes within the university.

The ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University Black Alumni Chapter is experiencing significant growth and renewed focus. Recently, leadership of the group began to transition to Amber Benton '09, Patrice Fuller '16 and Michael Tyner '15, who continue to work closely with founding members Robert Browning '69 and Donna Maxey '70. With strong leadership, the chapter is solidifying its role in fostering a strong and supportive community for alumni and students.

The NCAA will hold its first women's wrestling national championship in 2026, but ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University realized the sport's potential, and produced its first national champions, over 25 years ago.

The 1988 graduate brings to the board over 30 years of experience as a business owner and executive in the healthcare sector.

Boxer Giving Day 2025 proved once again that when Boxers come together, amazing things happen! Over 36 hours, alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends came together to show their Boxer Spirit, making 820 gifts and raising an incredible $263,386.37 to support scholarships, programs, and opportunities that help students thrive.

Ana McAbee MSW '18 brings clients and community to better connection with nature through her counseling practice and the Eugene Environmental Film Festival.