President’s Letter – Fall 2020

Fellow Alumni, 

“Together, it’s possible” is my mantra. Interdependence is one of our core values at EOU because we recognize opportunity is enhanced and success is achieved through the cultivation of vibrant connections and relationships. It is through our collective capabilities and strong alignment of purpose that EOU has served so many in its 91-year history. Resiliency is a byproduct of embracing our interdependence and we enter EOU’s 92nd academic year poised to meet the challenges of today.

Access and opportunity are at the heart of our mission to serve this region and its students. Last fall, we welcomed our most culturally and ethnically diverse freshmen class in school history. In the last five years, the proportion of ethnically diverse students attending EOU has doubled. We have made strides in supporting and retaining these students, essentially eliminating the achievement gap, both online and on campus. Overcoming intersecting systems of oppression, many of our Black, Indigenous and students of color model resilience every day. 

This year, the global pandemic has tested our resiliency. As we resume in-person instruction this fall, every member of our community is testing their strength to rebound, reorganize and reimagine. We do so knowing that together, it’s possible.

During this moment in history, recognizing our interdependence is a powerful act. We celebrate it in this issue of The Mountaineer. Pageant contestants, student body presidents, organizers, educators, doctors, scholars and “ballers” are valued for their contributions to the community. Continuing to learn about and address institutions, such as systemic racism, that create barriers to success for some is a way that we live out our value of interdependence. 

As always, our students are leading the way. In this distinct and often difficult time, Mountaineers remain as compassionate, courageous and determined as we have come to expect them to be. 

Sincerely, 

Tom Insko, ’94

President