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…
A promise worth fighting for
In 2007, Washington State made a promise to low-income students that if they worked hard, graduated high school, and stayed out of trouble, the state would help pay for their college. That promise, cemented in the College Bound Scholarship and Washington College Grant programs, helped…
Into the Grove
Three PLU researchers are finding something extraordinary hidden in the small stands of aspen trees scattered across Tacoma’s parks and college campuses. While most people ignore these quiet groves, the research team sees them as vital hosts to a complex, diverse ecosystem that scientists still…
Professor Emerita Dr. Sheri Tonn awarded 2026 Greater Tacoma Peace Prize
Sheri Tonn, Professor Emerita who served on the chemistry faculty from 1979 to 2019, was awarded the 2026 Greater Tacoma Peace Prize for her profound care for the environmental and physical health of our community, her visionary leadership, and her lifelong dedication to building a healthier,…
Professor Jan Weiss strengthens education and connections between Namibia and US
Jan Weiss, Associate Professor and Associate Dean in the School of Education, founded the the #UukumweProject and continues to advance education and strengthen connections between Namibia and the United States. Read even more about the incredible work that Weiss is doing in this PLU article…
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…
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.
The Seattle Times editorial board to legislators: Fully fund college tuition aid, whichever schools students choose
The Seattle Times’ editorial board calls for legislators to restore funding to the College Bound Scholarship and the Washington College Grant. “How serious are lawmakers about confronting Washington’s very real affordability crisis? Helping more low-income kids pay for college would be a powerful way to…
Lutes Take the Lead: Advocating for the Future of Financial Aid
Presented by: PLU Student Legislative Fellows Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2026 Time: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Location: Washington State Capitol, 416 Sid Snyder Ave SW, Olympia, WA 98504 Cost: Free! Learn more at plu.edu/advocacy Learn more! About the event With the future of Washington’s…