An MSW in action: Stephanie Gulledge ’25 gives back where her social work journey began
For Stephanie Gulledge ’25, earning a Master of Social Work at PLU was just the beginning — she now serves the same community that shaped her education. Today, as a clinical care manager with PLU’s Wellbeing Services and Resources , she oversees clinical operations within…
Alum Caitlin Harris ’10 creates a nonprofit for printmaking and community
In a decidedly digital world, Caitlin Harris ’10 has built a career around the tactile art of printmaking. Today, the PLU alum is channeling that passion through Open Letter Collective , a Boise-based nonprofit she co-founded in 2025 that brings printmaking, book arts, and independent…
PLU Professor Emerita Sheri Tonn receives 2026 Greater Tacoma Peace Prize
For decades, Sheri Tonn, a former PLU chemistry professor and administrator, has worked to make Puget Sound healthier and, in her view, more peaceful. Sheri Tonn worked at PLU for 40 years, beginning in the chemistry department and serving in several leadership roles as serve…
Introducing PLU’s Class of 2030
PLU is getting ready to welcome the Class of 2030 — 617 new students bringing their own interests, experiences, and ambitions to campus. This fall, 508 first-year students and 109 transfer students will arrive from across Washington, the country, and the world. They join PLU…
PLU launches accelerated 3+3 law school pathway partnership with Gonzaga
Starting in fall 2026, PLU is launching a new accelerated pathway for students interested in law school through the 3+3 Law School Partnership Program with Gonzaga University . Stephanie Johnson, PLU’s Dean of the College of Liberal Studies, shares, “ I’m excited about these partnerships…
Cultivating the Future, Together: Introducing HIVE at PLU
In nature, the bee serves as a powerful symbol of diligent, purpose driven action, reminding us that while individual paths are distinct, our shared efforts create undeniable momentum. This spirit of collective impact defines HIVE, PLU’s new initiative designed to unite women in building an…
Horror novelist and alum Courtney Gould ’16 returns to Tacoma for her fourth book release
When the owner of Grit City Books unlocked the front door before opening, she greeted Courtney Gould ’16 with a scowl. “I’m mad at you.” Gould looked confused. “What did I do?” Apparently, her latest novel was impossible to put down. It’s about the best…
PLU’s Colleen Hacker recognized as global “Game Changer” in women in STEM
PLU kinesiology professor Colleen Hacker has been recognized as one of 26 women featured in the new #IfThenSheCan – The Exhibit: Game Changers , an international exhibition celebrating women whose work demonstrates how science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are transforming sports. The exhibit debuted…
Advocate, economics-enthusiast, environmentalist: Ava Foley’s ’26 evolving path and passions
“I don’t want to peak in any era of my life. But if I do, hopefully it’s in my 80s.” It’s a perspective that leaves room to try things, change direction, and not rush toward a single definition of success – something economics major Ava…
Katlyne Smith ’25 on the stories that shape the future
History is about more than what happened; it’s about what still shapes us. For history grad Katlyne Smith ’25, that understanding started close to home. “Growing up in Tacoma, I observed the importance of engaging with and learning from people whose experience and viewpoints differ…
“I was constantly in awe”: Inside the transformative Oslo study away program at PLU
When Delaney McFarland ’28 thinks back on her semester in Norway, one feeling stands out above the rest. “Norway is an amazing country in many ways…but more beautiful are the people and institutions that protect the strong values embedded in the culture.” For Delaney, a…
Senior Carmen Kiewert ’26 goes all-in on business, competition, and connection at PLU
When Carmen Kiewert arrived at PLU as a transfer student, she was searching for a place where she could grow academically, professionally, and personally. She found all three. “I chose PLU for a variety of reasons, and I’m really happy with my decision to transfer,”…