With her son by her side, Zoneice Grose ’25 charts a path of purpose through social work
When Zoneice Grose ’25 walks across the stage at graduation this spring, she’ll have earned far more than a degree. A first-generation college student, a mother, and a dedicated advocate for equity in education, Zoneice’s path to social work was winding, but it all made sense.…
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…
Senior Justinpal Singh’s heart for service, science, and creating community space
Looking back four years ago, Justinpal Singh ’25 remembers that he was seeking a university that was more than just a place to get a degree. “I really wanted a university that was not necessarily competitive, but more so encouraging and fostered individual growth,” Justinpal…
Pacific Lutheran University Receives Over $1.9 Million to Enhance Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Tacoma, Wash. – Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) is pleased to announce it has been awarded over $1.9 million in Clean Buildings Performance Grant (CBPG) funding from the Washington State Department of Commerce . This significant grant will enable PLU to undertake substantial energy efficiency upgrades…
A front-row seat to democracy: student Cady Wood interns with the Speaker of the House in Olympia
Interning in the Washington State Speaker of the House’s office isn’t an everyday opportunity – and for PLU student Cady Wood ’26, it’s an invaluable chance to, in her words, “be in the room where change is being made.” With civic engagement playing a key…
A Sweet Partnership: PLU students partner with Tonči Chocolatiers in Tobago
For a small-batch chocolatier in Tobago, it’s all about family. “My mother, Marie Jules, taught me to make drinking chocolate,” said Carlina Jules-Taylor, co-owner of Tonči. “Her father worked on an estate with cocoa, coffee, and coconut. My grandmother processed everything – squeezing sugar cane…
Tech on the Slopes: PLU computer science students create a scheduling app for White Pass ski patrollers
For years, White Pass Ski Patrol volunteers juggled schedules with paper spreadsheets and manual tracking – until a team of students helped create a solution. “We needed something more efficient, something that actually worked for us,” said Chuck Caley, a longtime ski patroller and…
Bridging Borders: PLU nursing students gain global health experience in Oaxaca
“I am forever changed by the people of Oaxaca, Mexico. Through direct community engagement, I learned how to meet people where they are and build trusting and meaningful rapport despite language barriers.” – Claire Hindman ’26, PLU Nursing Student What happens when classroom learning meets…
Internships, Arts, and Advocacy: Gavin Ripka’s community-based learning experience
With a triple major, multiple internships, three study away trips, and lots of participation in campus life, Gavin Ripka ’25 is soaking up as many experiences as he can at PLU. We caught up with Ripka to learn more about his most recent internship experience…