SalemOur Community

President M. Lee Pelton Greetings from Willamette University, and thank you for your interest in Willamette’s contributions to the Salem community.

Willamette has a rich history of philanthropy and civic engagement that pre-dates Oregon’s statehood. When Willamette was founded in 1842, the cities of Salem, Portland, Seattle and Tacoma did not exist. Willamette University housed the first session of the state legislature to meet in Salem and sheltered the first court in the territory under United States auspices. In Oregon’s infancy, Willamette University deeded to the new state the very land upon which the Capitol was erected. The city of Salem literally sprang up around Willamette’s campus to become the capital city it is today. In fact, much of the present downtown is built on former University land.

Salem is not only the hub of law, public policy-making and government, it is also a vibrant and exciting place to live and visit, rich in historical, arts and cultural experiences and learning opportunities, many of which are enhanced by the presence of Willamette University. To me, Willamette’s future and Salem’s future as a city are inextricably connected. When one thrives – or languishes – so does the other.

I hope you find this information an interesting and compelling way to look at Willamette beyond its core mission as a small but distinguished liberal arts college. I hope it enables you to see Willamette University – its students, faculty and staff – as an essential community partner.

This information seeks to qualify Willamette’s contribution to the Salem community in three primary areas:

  1. the economic impact of Willamette as an employer on the area economy;
  2. how much Willamette adds to Salem’s quality of life through educational, cultural, recreational and entertainment opportunities; and
  3. how much Willamette students, faculty and staff contribute to our quality of life through philanthropy, service and volunteerism.

This effort to quantify our contributions – our partnership with the community – should be considered a work in progress, one that I hope will continue to develop as we find better, more accurate ways to track our achievements and contributions. If you have questions or thoughts you would like to share about this tie, use the information and resources in this site to connect with specific offices and personnel who can help you.

Sincerely,

M. Lee Pelton [signature] M. Lee Pelton President