Regional Impact | Stories at Willamette University

Willamette University’s commitment to the Pacific Northwest is reflected in its educational approach, emphasizing place-based pedagogy that leverages the region’s environmental, social, and cultural resources. The university builds strong relationships with local companies and organizations, creating opportunities for students to gain practical experience while addressing regional needs. By preparing students to excel in the Northwest’s evolving economy and cultural landscape, Willamette ensures that its graduates are equipped to make a positive impact on the region.

Regional Impact in Action

Willamette Graduates Shaping the Future of the Northwest

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Giving Back in the PNW

Madeline Hueske JD'24 finds support at Willamette and is ready to pay it forward.

Meet Madeline Hueske

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Data Science for Oregon’s Future

Colleen Smyth MS’21 uses her data science skills to improve education in Portland Public Schools.

Meet Colleen Smyth MS '21

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Addressing Bias in Hiring With AI

Willamette graduates Andrew Hallberg BA’12, MBA’16 and Malik Kahel MBA’16 leveraged their education and connections from the university's Angel Fund Program to co-found HirelyAI, a startup using artificial intelligence to address bias in hiring.

Read more about Malik Kahel and Andrew Hallberg

Learn more about HirelyAI

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Combating Adolescent Tobacco Use in Marion County Through Public Health Initiatives

Conor Foley BA’12 applies his Willamette education and public health expertise to address adolescent tobacco use in Marion County as the Chronic Disease Prevention Program coordinator.

Read more about Conor Foley

Regional Leadership

"I ran a global company. It was in 150 countries. I never moved to New York. I never moved to London. I ran it from Portland, Oregon."

Punit Renjen MBA ’86

Former CEO, Deloitte

Read more stories from Willamette, the magazine.

Hands-On Learning in the Northwest

Turning Knowledge into Action Locally

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Local Internships and Community Engagement

Willamette students have access to numerous internships and volunteer opportunities within walking distance of campus, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

Explore Opportunities

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Student Organizations Supporting Local Communities

Student organizations at Willamette, like the Restorative Justice Coalition and Best Buddies, work to improve the lives of local residents through advocacy and service.

Join a Student Organization

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Willamette Emergency Medical Service

Willamette Emergency Medical Services (WEMS) is a student-run, professionally licensed EMS agency that offers free, confidential Basic Life Support to the Willamette University community. Founded in 1997, WEMS provides on-campus emergency care and health education, while also offering students valuable leadership and medical training opportunities.

Learn more about WEMS

Students from WEMS practicing medical services.

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Hands-On Investment Experience

The Willamette MBA Angel Fund program, the first student-run angel investment initiative in the U.S., offers students hands-on experience in angel investing, venture capital, and entrepreneurial development, preparing them for impactful careers in finance and business.

Read about angel investing at Willamette

News That Makes a Regional Impact

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Study

Degree Programs

Students across all academic programs can make a meaningful difference in the local region and community. Here are some of the most popular programs where students create impact.

Public Health Printmaking (PNCA) Graphic Design (PNCA) MBA for Professionals