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Eastern Oregon University

La Grande, OR

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
2,201
Total Students
$11K
Tuition (In-State)
$25K
Tuition (Out-State)
$16K
Avg Net Price
99%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Graduation Rate
6-year
67%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Eastern Oregon University

Eastern Oregon University: Pioneering education and community in the heart of Oregon.

Eastern Oregon University (EOU) stands as a beacon of learning, deeply rooted in its commitment to educational excellence and community engagement. What began as a dedicated teacher training institution has blossomed into a comprehensive university, offering a vibrant and supportive environment for students seeking a transformative academic experience.

Founded in 1929 as the Eastern Oregon Normal School, EOU's history is a testament to its adaptability and enduring mission. Over the decades, it evolved, first becoming Eastern Oregon College of Education, then Eastern Oregon College, and finally, Eastern Oregon University in 1997. This progression reflects an expanding academic scope, moving beyond its foundational teacher training to embrace a broader range of disciplines and serve a diverse student body. The campus itself grew with this vision, adding essential facilities like dormitories (Dorian Hall in 1938, Hunt Hall in 1947), a library (1951), and student centers like the Hoke College Center (1973), all designed to enrich the student experience.

EOU is known for its strong regional presence and its commitment to fostering an inclusive and forward-thinking educational space. This is underscored by significant milestones such as Inlow Hall, its original building, being added to the National Register of Historic Places, and more recently, the university's transition to governance by its own Board of Trustees in 2015. Prospective students and their families will find a university that values its heritage while continuously adapting to meet modern educational demands, preparing graduates for successful futures in an ever-changing world.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1929 as the Eastern Oregon Normal School, originally dedicated to teacher training.
  • Evolved into Eastern Oregon University in 1997, reflecting an expanded academic mission and broader curriculum.
  • Historic Inlow Hall, the university's first building, was recognized and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
  • Became independently governed by the Eastern Oregon University Board of Trustees in 2015, ensuring focused leadership and direction.
  • Demonstrates a commitment to inclusive values, exemplified by the removal of a controversial name from its library in 2020.
  • Features a continually developing campus with facilities like Quinn Coliseum (1958) and the Hoke College Center (1973).

Timeline

1929
Opened its doors as Eastern Oregon Normal School, a teacher training institution.
1939
The Oregon Legislature changed the name to Eastern Oregon College of Education.
1956
The words 'of Education' were dropped, renaming the institution Eastern Oregon College.
1973
The Legislature changed the college's name to Eastern Oregon State College; Hoke College Center completed.
1980
Inlow Hall, then known as the Administrative Building, was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
1997
Eastern Oregon State College became Eastern Oregon University.
2015
The Eastern Oregon University Board of Trustees assumed governance of the institution.
2020
The university removed the name Pierce from the library due to concerns regarding former governor Walter M. Pierce's views.
2023
Kelly A. Ryan was named the university's 13th president by the EOU Board of Trustees.

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