PLU Marriage and Family Therapy grads open inclusive practice in Tacoma
On a Friday morning, at a coffee shop where they meet for their weekly “admin day,” Megan Irving ’24 and Kiara Holden ’24 talk all things Bloom Again Therapy , their new private therapy practice rooted in accessibility, identity, care, and community. “It sounds big,…
“Teaching Was Always My Path”: Alum Yisel Morales ’23, MAE ’24 reflects on growth and mentorship
When alum Yisel Morales ’23, MAE ’24 took the stage at Pacific Lutheran University’s 2025 Convocation, she spoke to hundreds of new students about beginnings, growth, and finding purpose. “The English Department saw me grow up,” she says. “Going from 18 years old all the…
Student-Athlete and Entrepreneur: Connor O’Brien builds his future on and off the field
PLU junior Connor O’Brien ’27 has a lot on his plate. He’s a student-athlete, business owner, and business major (finance concentration) with a data science minor. But for him, each role fuels the others. When he’s not in class or on the field as a…
PLU Awarded $2.4 Million to Expand Behavioral Health Workforce
Pacific Lutheran University has been awarded a four-year, $2.4 million federal grant to expand the region’s behavioral health workforce and better serve children and youth in Pierce County and South Puget Sound. Anissa Rogers, Chair of PLU’s Master of Social Work program, at the MSW…
From Air Force to PLU: Greg Perkinson’s lifetime of service
The PLU community is shaped by people whose paths here have been anything but ordinary. I had the privilege of meeting with an important voice and perspective in our community, Greg Perkinson . Greg is a veteran, PLU’s associate vice president of facilities, and an…
Student-created Instagram Show “Boyish Charm” Wins 2025 NASPA Region V Innovative Program Award
What started as a playful idea between two student interns from Wellbeing Services & Resources (WSR) has grown into an award-winning program making a real impact on campus and beyond. “ Boyish Charm ,” PLU’s student-created Instagram cooking show, was honored with the 2025 NASPA…
Scandinavian Cultural Center at PLU: Preserving Heritage and Building Connections Across Communities
“Bottom Line: We are all similar. We are all connected,” says longtime volunteer Linda Caspersen. This sentiment captures the spirit of the Scandinavian Cultural Center (SCC) at Pacific Lutheran University. Part museum, part gathering place, part living classroom, the SCC preserves and shares stories of…
PLU Receives Full Reaffirmation of Accreditation from NWCCU
The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) has officially reaffirmed Pacific Lutheran University’s accreditation, recognizing PLU’s strength in mission, innovation, and student support. The reaffirmation marks the culmination of a seven-year review cycle, which included four annual reports, two campus visits, and a commission…
Henrichsen ’07 named Andrew Carnegie Fellow for research shaping the future of journalism
“To strengthen democracy and journalism, more people need to step up, have courage, and fight for the values underpinning both.” That’s the vision driving Dr. Jennifer R. Henrichsen ’07 — and it’s one she’ll pursue as a newly named 2025 Andrew Carnegie Fellow . A…
Mason Taylor-Wells ’27 supports patient recovery through internship at MultiCare’s Tacoma General Hospital
Biology major and pre-med student Mason Taylor-Wells ’27 spent his summer helping patients take their first steps after major medical events. “ I’ve had patients cry tears of joy because they’re able to stand (with some help) again. I can’t think of a better way…
Rainier Adaptive Sports advocates for access and equity, finding partnership with PLU
One of professor Charlie Katica ’s favorite memories is walking into a gym buzzing with energy — 20 kids in sport chairs practicing basketball, surrounded by more than 100 parents, coaches, and volunteers. “These athletes are a part of my family, and I am part…
Gracie Hansen ’25 turns a calling into action with a social work degree at 20
From a young age, senior Gracie Hansen ’25 felt a calling to help others. “I chose social work because I truly believe my purpose is to bring hope to the world and make a difference in people’s lives.” Now, as she prepares to graduate with…