PLU professors and students dive deep into the psychology of the pandemic
As the world was beginning to realize the enormity of COVID-19, two Pacific Lutheran University professors seized the 2020 moment to do significant research into the psychology of the pandemic. PLU Department of Psychology Chair Jon Grahe and his Statistics 232 students conducted a U.S.…
Andrew Schwartz’s journey from PLU sociology major to environmental justice advocate and eco-ministry leader
When we first catch up with environmental advocate Andrew Schwartz ‘07, he’s preparing for a massive road trip with his wife, Emily, and 8-month-old daughter, Maja. They’re headed east to visit Emily’s family in Illinois. But the 36-year-old Schwartz’s life has also been a journey,…
The Room Where It Happens: PLU Nursing Majors Help Community Members Take Their Shot
On a chilly February morning, cars packed the parking lot of the Pacific Lutheran University Olson Fieldhouse. There was no basketball game or volleyball match enticing the visitors, but rather a historic event that brought visitors in that day. It was the first of many…
PLU announces plans for a full return to campus this fall
Pacific Lutheran University has announced the intention to return to in-person learning for Fall 2021. The news was shared with campus last Friday in an email from President Allan Belton. “Like every action we’ve undertaken as a community during the pandemic, this decision is being…
PLU nursing students help vaccinate nearly 1200 people at on-campus event
On Thursday, February 11, around 1,200 people received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccination at a one-day event in Pacific Lutheran University’s Olson Gym and Field House. Co-hosted by the Tacoma–Pierce County Health Department, PLU, MultiCare Health System, and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, the…
Brian Lander ’89: Career Humanitarian is PLU’s Connection to 2020 Nobel Peace Prize
PLU alumnus Brian Lander ‘89 grew up in Washington State’s Tri-Cities. But in early 2020, Lander was far from his childhood home, as he helped meet urgent needs in Northwest Syria. Turkish troops, Syrian and Russian armies, and opposition forces negotiated and battled over resources…