Eastern Oregon University > EOU President's Office > newsletter > EOU Newsletter – February 2024

EOU Newsletter – February 2024

From the President

EOU President Dr. Kelly Ryan

As we step into the winter season, I am delighted to share with you the latest edition of our newsletter. In this issue, we shine a spotlight on our Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program, a vital part of our university’s commitment to health and wellbeing. This program shows EOU’s dedication to nurturing the mental and emotional health of our students and the broader community.

We also celebrate the national recognition of our online economics degree, a clear indicator of the academic excellence that defines EOU. This distinction is a tribute to the hard work and commitment of both our faculty and students.

I also want to highlight our ‘Best for Vets’ ranking by Military Times. As the daughter of a retired Navy Admiral, EOU’s service to veterans and active duty military is a source of immense pride for me. In this edition, you will also hear from current student Mary Qazizda and alum Michael Dougherty, whose experiences embody the strength and diversity of Oregon’s Official Rural University.

I’m extremely proud to call myself a Mountaineer as we continue to foster a culture of excellence and inclusivity at Eastern Oregon University.

Sincerely,

Kelly Ryan, Ph.D.

President


Featured Story

Eastern Oregon University launches new graduate program in clinical mental health counseling

Chuck Hoffman
Chuck Hoffman, a retired physician and Eastern Oregon University trustee, is among those who worked to create EOU’s new graduate program in clinical mental health counseling.

Oregon’s Official Rural University is pioneering advancements in mental health education with its innovative graduate program in clinical mental health counseling. Launched in fall 2023, the program stands out for its flexibility and online accessibility, catering to diverse students including those in rural areas. The program’s focus is on addressing the critical shortage of mental health professionals in remote locations, emphasizing a “grow-your-own” approach to foster local talent. This approach is supported by the program’s hybrid teaching style and specific curriculum catering to rural mental health needs. With a mix of traditional and non-traditional students, EOU’s program is shaping the future of mental health services, especially in underserved rural areas. Click here for the full story.


EOU in the News

Peter Maille

Eastern Oregon University is once again being recognized for its outstanding online economics degree program.

In an article on Yahoo Finance, EOU was recognized as having one of the best online economics degree programs for 2024. EOU secured a spot among the top 10 online programs nationwide for economics.

Scott McConnell

Interim Dean of the College of Business Scott McConnell was asked by OPB to weigh in on how Oregon schools are preparing students for life after high school. As a professor of economics and the owner of Side A Brewing, McConnell is uniquely qualified to discuss the “9 things Oregon employers, colleges want to see from Oregon high school graduates”


News From Campus

EOU is ‘Best for Vets’

Military Times ranks Eastern Oregon University (EOU) 13th nationally and 1st in the Pacific Northwest for online schools. EOU prioritizes veterans with resources, benefits, and support, consistently in the top 15% of military-friendly schools. Services include priority registration and smaller class sizes. Read the full story here.

No Photos Please

Eastern Oregon University’s Nightingale Gallery ushers in the new year with “No Photos Please” an exhibition of photographic work by Professor Michael Sell created during his recent sabbatical. Sell’s photographic work explores mortality, subcultures, and the progression of time through ritualistic and documentary practices. Read the full story here.


Mountie Tales

Mohtarama "Mary" Qazizda,

“EOU’s small community and small classes have given me the chance to get to know my professor’s and other students in the class. It is such a friendly environment where everybody helps each other.”
 

– Mohtarama “Mary” Qazizada, Sophomore, Computer Science

Michael Dougherty

“I have been associated with EOU for nearly my entire adult life (over 50 years). This university has given me a foundation, and support, and gave me the opportunity to achieve, both personally and professionally, my goals. EOU has been my home away from home and I totally believe in the value of this institution and want to continue to see it be successful.”
 

– Michael Dougherty, ’74