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…
Professor Emerita Dr. Sheri Tonn awarded 2026 Greater Tacoma Peace Prize
Sheri Tonn, Professor Emerita who served on the chemistry faculty from 1979 to 2019, was awarded the 2026 Greater Tacoma Peace Prize for her profound care for the environmental and physical health of our community, her visionary leadership, and her lifelong dedication to building a healthier,…
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…
ResoLute Fall 2026 Opening Note
Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the global landscape, but at Pacific Lutheran University, our response is distinct: we don’t simply adopt, we interrogate. Driven by ethical leadership and a mission of care, Lutes are asking what machine learning means for education, vocation, human dignity, and…
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…
Professor Jan Weiss strengthens education and connections between Namibia and US
Jan Weiss, Associate Professor and Associate Dean in the School of Education, founded the the #UukumweProject and continues to advance education and strengthen connections between Namibia and the United States. Read even more about the incredible work that Weiss is doing in this PLU article…
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…
Melody Ferguson Wants You to Feel Valued
PLU’s Dean of Admission, Melody Ferguson, was interviewed as part of South Sound Business’ annual Women in Business issue. Ferguson reflects on her career and offers insight and advice for women in leadership roles.
Svend Rønning and the Sound of Tacoma – 50 Years of Chamber Music
Did you know that PLU’s Professor of Music Svend Rønning also serves as Second City Chamber Series’ Artistic Director? An alum of the Class of 1989, Rønning has been teaching at PLU for over 25 years, and is entering his 20th year as artistic director…
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…
Pacific Lutheran University welcomes Dr. Woojun Lee as Dean of the School of Business
The Pacific Lutheran University community recently welcomed Dr. Woojun Lee as the new dean of the School of Business . Lee, a distinguished scholar and academic leader, joins PLU from Wilkes University’s Sidhu School of Business & Leadership, where he most recently served as Associate…
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…