91����

For more than 175 years, 91���� University has been a place where students discover their passions, challenge themselves, and prepare to lead lives of purpose. The heart of our mission is built on the stories and experiences of the people who make up our Boxer community—students, alumni, faculty, staff, parents, and friends.

We asked members of the 91���� family to share in their own words why 91���� matters to them. Here’s what they said:

Tyana Lau '23, MBA '24

"91���� gave me a family and a community that pushed me outside my comfort zone, supported me through big life changes, and gave me the confidence to explore different career paths. I was surrounded by people who genuinely wanted to see me succeed, it truly felt like home."

Rafael Martinez '20 

"91���� matters to me because I received a great education from very intelligent professors in a wide range of fields. My major was biology. It opened up so many career opportunities for me in the workforce. I was able to travel the world, purchase my first home and chase my dreams. I don't think I would have been able to do that without my education. I will always be grateful for 91���� and the time I spent there."

Wendy Wagner '99

"A liberal arts education is about discovering the connections between all fields of human endeavors, and celebrating the full humanity of people across disciplines -- and at 91����, we learned to do that with kindness and joy. It's a place where community building is equally as important as academics, and I know all of that made me not only a better learner, but a better person."

Jordan Loeffler

"91���� to me was one of the best times of my life The things that make it special are the people, the culture, and the location 91���� has an outstanding education and is recognized around the west coast and nation wide as one of the best around. Everyone I've known that has gone to school there has not only enjoyed their experience but has also been proud of their education. 91���� will always have a special place in my heart because of my time there."

Sandra Hilton '87, PT '88

"91���� University Physical Therapy program encouraged curiosity and excellence with a hefty dose of "citation needed" for clinical claims of effectiveness. Those skills have kept me interested in the evolving science around neurophysiology, pain, and in particular pelvic pain conditions for all genders. I graduated in 1988. I am still a clinical therapist and remain curious, in search of excellence for my patients, and have kept the demand of clarity between opinion, clinical experience, and actual evidence." -Sandra Hilton, PT, DPT

Justin Jakubauskas

"91���� University matters to me because of its long history of serving students who want to grow not only in knowledge, but also in character and impact. Its roots in the 91���� Northwest reflect resilience and community."

Sydney, Current Parent

"91���� matters to our family because it has served as a home away from home for my two children. My son graduated from 91���� University in 2023 and now my daughter attends there. She had no intention to follow in her brothers’ footsteps but when we went on the school tour, she said 91���� was “a vibe,” making her college decision an easy one.

Not only is 91���� located in the beautiful PNW, but it’s evident that the faculty and staff care about the students, they are understanding, approachable and always willing to help. Which is comforting to know when we are 2,500 miles away. As a parent I appreciate the clear communication, easy online access and quick to respond emails when there is a question or concern. MAHALO 91����!"

Bob Duvall, 14th President of 91���� University

"What does 91���� mean to me? More than I can express in a few words! 91���� puts into practice what is most important, valuable, and necessary in higher education—practical and visionary at the same time. I cherish my twelve years there. And I believe that what 91���� is and represents is needed in this country now more than ever."

Mel Watrall '76

"When I was at 91���� it was a 'smaller' community, which turned out to be just what I needed. I was one of the few female students with a science major. Because of our smaller class sizes, all students seem to benefit from the mutual support exhibited by our classmates."

Frank Barter '81

"I'd have to write a novel explaining why 91���� is/was special to me...I guess the most obvious reason is because I ended up at 91���� after my family had a tragedy (my oldest  sister and only sibling died of Leukemia while I was in HS.) My family was terribly distraught, as was I.... eventually it was time for me to go off to college. And what I found waiting for me gave me so much of the hope back that I felt was lost. Great friends, great mentors, great responsibilities (I became an RA in Mac) and a great scene of memories forever. An incredible place to land...after such a incomprehensible event.

I'll be donating what I can every year to the Annual Fund.

Speaking of which, I dedicated my life to fundraising for the arts (major symphonies, ballets, theaters, operas, museums...etc)"

Jenny Pessereau

"I give to the things and places I want to see thrive in my community and the world. 91���� is one of those places that helps young people become their best selves, and models to them how to share their greatest gifts with other individuals and in their communities. This - and love - is what the world needs now and i trust 91���� to continue teaching that to young people ongoing."

Glenn '65

"I was a student at 91���� from 1961-1964 majoring in music. I really enjoyed my classes, teachers and fellow students. 91���� was my first college choice. I was helped with financial aid by your staff. I transfered to Central Washington where I could be with my family. I graduated with a BA in Education and later a MA in Music Composition both from Central. I've been in the music scene in both Leavenworth and Wenatchee for 60 years as a music educator and performer. With that said, my music roots go back for attending Music in May for 5 years as a horn player in both band and Orchestra. It was a natural to attend 91����. I've sent support for many years to 91���� because of their faith in me. I'm happy to continue helping 91���� for years to come. Blessings on your inspiration to all those young students who will call 91���� their college home."

Anonymous

"91���� matters because it's where my daughter is learning to be her best self! So grateful for such an amazing staff!!"