Willamette University and Pacific University have officially agreed to merge, creating the largest private higher education institution in Oregon. The new school, provisionally named the University of the Northwest, will serve over 6,000 students at the current campuses in Salem, Forest Grove, Hillsboro, and Portland.
Merger Details
Pacific University President Jenny Coyle will lead the new university as president, while Willamette University President Steve Thorsett will serve as chancellor. The merger aims to build on shared values, complementary missions, and a common purpose, allowing the institutions to do more with combined resources.
Students will continue to receive degrees and financial aid from their current university, with individual schools and colleges retaining their names, athletics programs, admission processes, and other aspects of student life. The University of the Northwest will offer a wide range of courses, with a focus on healthcare, law, and education.
The merger comes after a challenging period for Oregon higher education institutions, with staff layoffs, hiring freezes, and program reductions. The new university aims to thrive and maintain academic quality by combining the strengths of Willamette and Pacific.
Original reporting: Salem Reporter — read the source article.
