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…
Full Circle Moment for Van Hulle & PLU Softball
If you ask Cindy Van Hulle ’76 what’s her favorite sport to coach, don’t be surprised if she replies, “Whatever’s in season.” And why not? Over the years, Van Hulle seemingly has coached just about every sport in every season. Volleyball and cross country in…
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…
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…
PLU alum Jerilynn Harris ’08 earns statewide music education award
For Jerilynn Harris ’08, music is a vehicle for a lot of things, like empowerment, play, challenge, and reflection. As a teacher, they make space for all sides of music in their classroom. “I’d say we’ve got a pretty good balance between laughing and locking…
Alumni Phillip Simpson inducted into Washington Music Educators Association Hall of Fame
PLU Alumni Phillip Simpson was inducted into the Washington Music Educators Association Hall of Fame following decades of service and student mentorship. After graduating from PLU, Simpson went on to teach for over four decades, nearly three of which were at Kennewick School District.
PLU’s Mentoring Program: Built on connection and care
When students talk about the PLU Mentoring Program , they often describe one thing first: the sense of being seen and guided by someone who is there to champion their growth. Recent mentee Jack Helt ’24 shares, “It was very meaningful to have someone invested…
Caden Ankrom ’25 designs his path to success
Caden Ankrom ’25 has designed everything from clothes and posters to billboards and train wraps. As a student worker on the Marketing & Communications team at PLU for the last two and a half years, he has created industry-grade designs. Finding a creative home at…
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,”…