Cougs by the Tailgate
As Coug fans gear up for this weekend’s Apple Cup, Washington State Magazine celebrates the traditions, friendships, and community that make WSU tailgating special.
Campus & Community
Merivaki appointed director of Foley Institute for Public Policy and Public Service
Scholar brings wealth of research experience in the electoral process, including how generative AI is shaping election communications.
Cougs by the Tailgate
As Coug fans gear up for this weekend’s Apple Cup, Washington State Magazine celebrates the traditions, friendships, and community that make WSU tailgating special.
WSU, University of Idaho come together to commemorate 25th anniversary of 9/11
A Remembrance Service for the 25th anniversary of 9/11 is taking place in the Terrell Library Atrium on Friday, Sept. 11.
Wogmans donate $3M for instructional chemistry laboratories
The pledge from Ned and Nancy Wogman will support three new labs in WSU’s planned Integrated Sciences Building, expanding research and hands-on learning opportunities.
University Affairs
Julie Akers named dean of the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
As dean, Akers will lead the development of a strategic plan and vision for the college, creating a roadmap for continued growth and success.
Seattle TV news icon looking forward to serving alma mater
Shortly after signing off for the final time as a member of the KOMO news team, Mary Nam accepted a position as a member of the WSU Board of Regents.
Swindell named vice provost for Undergraduate Education
Samantha Swindell has been named WSU’s vice provost for undergraduate education and will begin a phased transition into the role Sept. 21.
WSU earns top rankings in Princeton Review’s 2027 Best Colleges guide
The recognition places WSU among the nation’s highest-rated institutions based on extensive student feedback about campus life, academics, support services, and overall satisfaction.
WSU-related Podcasts
From WSU:
Food safety, WSU stories, science answers for kids, and more — listen to podcasts from Washington State University.
About WSU:A selection of programs about Washington State, produced by alumni and friends.
WSU PodcastsBenefits & Training
Invitation to Attend PEBB Retiree Insurance Overview (via Zoom)
Whether retirement is approaching soon or is still part of your long-term planning, you are invited to attend a virtual presentation on PEBB Retiree Insurance, presented by a PEBB retiree benefits representative. This session is designed to help you understand how retiree insurance fits into your overall retirement planning and what you need to know […]
Social Security Presentation: September 22, 2026, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
HRS Benefits is hosting a presentation on Social Security 101 – Everything You Wanted to Know. Social Security representative, Kirk Larson, will be presenting on topics such as: · When are you eligible to receive benefits · How does early retirement affect your benefits · Survivor, Spouse and Disability benefits · How do you get […]
Awards & Achievements
Regents Professor Jill McCluskey joins National Academies new Food, Nutrition, and Ag Committee
McCluskey will help guide national science priorities and policies related to food, nutrition, and agricultural production.
Narasimha Boddeti named Voiland College Dean’s Faculty Fellow
Boddeti, assistant professor in the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at WSU, has been named a Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture Dean’s Faculty Fellow.
Inaugural Dean’s Faculty Fellow awards support research, teaching, and outreach projects
Nine CAHNRS scientists are launching innovative projects aimed at advancing research, enriching student learning and improving lives across Washington.
Jennifer Henrichsen wins 2026 Lillian Lodge Kopenhaver Early Career Woman Scholar Award
The Murrow College assistant professor was recognized for her research on some of the challenges facing democracy and her promise as a future leader.
Science & Technology
Researchers use AI to ‘democratize’ 3D printing of crucial metal alloy
AI technique used by WSU team to sort through millions of options to find the best approach could be adapted in other fields.
Dr. Universe explains how wind moves
With help from WSU atmospheric scientist Jun Meng, Dr. Universe explains that wind is air moving from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure.
Harsher weather could encourage sustainable ecolabeling in fishing industry
Study shows climate factors such as rising temperatures and intensifying storms affect commercial fishers’ attitudes toward sustainability certification.
AI and robotics—A matter of trust
WSU researchers are using AI to help robots safely adapt to unpredictable people and real-world environments, from factory floors to apple orchards.
Food & Agriculture
Our Food, Our Farms, Our Washington
WSU’s expanding role in a Washington State Fair exhibit showcases how university research, technology and expertise support the state’s farmers and food systems.
WSU experts available to discuss wildfires
As wildfires affect communities across the Pacific Northwest, WSU researchers and Extension specialists are available to discuss wildfire risks, preparedness, and recovery.
CAHNRS showcases Cougar Gold, honey, wine, and more at local food festival
The mid-summer heat didn’t deter a consistent stream of foodies from stopping by the Cougar-themed tents at this year’s Crave! Northwest festival in Spokane.
WSU study shows nutrient loss in vineyards can be attributed to factors beyond fruit harvest
New WSU research gives grape growers a clearer picture of how to manage fertilizer, potentially boosting vineyard productivity and sustainability across Washington state.
Health & Medicine
From Hawaii to Florida, future pharmacists choose WSU to make a difference
The WSU College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences welcomed its largest PharmD cohort in five years, bringing together students from across Washington and the nation.
WSU study: Working from home doesn’t guarantee breastfeeding success
Research challenges conventional wisdom, showing that stay-at-home mothers and those who work remotely face obstacles in sustaining breastfeeding.
Developing AI assistance for diabetes management
The project under way at WSU will help medical practitioners understand how artificial intelligence can assist diabetes patients with glucose tracking and follow‑up care.
Researcher earns $420K grant to study tick-borne disease
The NIH grant to WSU researcher Dana Shaw could pave the way for strategies to stop tick-borne diseases before they reach people or animals.
Veterinary Medicine
Disease investigator returns to WSU for veterinary degree
WSU graduate Terran Gilbreath is returning to his alma mater, bringing experience in epidemiology and public health as he pursues a veterinary medicine degree.
Spokane cat’s rare diagnosis leads to lifesaving care at WSU
A Spokane cat with a rare congenital liver defect is thriving after receiving specialized surgery and financial assistance through WSU’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital.
Dr. Jeff Abbott named Berger Keatts Distinguished Professor
Established by WSU alumnus Dr. Berger Keatts, the distinguished professorship recognizes faculty members whose work exemplifies excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service.
WSU’s Good Samaritan Fund eases veterinary costs for Spokane family after fire
A Spokane family whose barn, chicken house, and pasture were destroyed in the Old Trails Fire no longer has to shoulder the cost of lifesaving surgery for their miniature horse, Dudley.
Arts & Culture
WSU musicians help silent films find a new voice
WSU musicians and composers will perform newly commissioned scores for classic films during the Kenworthy’s annual Silent Film Festival on Sept. 2 and 9.
Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU opens three new exhibitions exploring nature
Opening Aug. 25, the exhibitions examine the ways artists engage with landscapes, ecosystems, memory, and place — revealing nature not simply as scenery, but as a living force that shapes identity, culture, and imagination.
‘American Psycho’ author interviews WSU professor about film criticism
Bret Easton Ellis invited WSU English professor Grant Maierhofer onto his podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about film, writing, and creativity.
WSU to host Thursday sendoff concerts for Washington Ambassadors of Music
The musicians will perform two Thursday sendoff concerts at WSU Pullman before departing for a 15‑day European tour.
Business & Economics
Carson College of Business appoints Christopher Cooney to lead the Center for Entrepreneurship
Cooney brings extensive experience mentoring student entrepreneurs and connecting them with industry as he works to expand the center’s partnerships, visibility, and reach.
When ‘helpful’ product reviews lead shoppers astray
Researchers find that featured product reviews online may be “sour fruit” in terms of helping shoppers find what they’re looking for.
Sept. 30: Power Breakfast to focus on how AI is transforming business and higher education
The annual Power Breakfast networking event hosted by the WSU Carson College of Business will feature Debbie Compeau, Phyllis J. Campell Endowed Dean of the Carson College.
Robinhood users target simplicity in choosing stocks
Millions of young investors using popular app to invest tend to favor easy-to-analyze firms when buying stocks.
Politics & Society
Celebration of Hirahara Endowments Planned Aug. 17 in Terrell Library
WSU Libraries will celebrate two endowments supporting the preservation and sharing of a historic collection documenting Japanese American incarceration during World War II.
Washington households continue to face food insecurity, survey finds
A statewide survey found that rising prices and uncertainty over federal assistance continue to strain food budgets for Washington households across income levels.
WSU’s Noriko Kawamura appears on ‘World War II with Tom Hanks’
The emeritus history professor was interviewed for a documentary series that looks back on the 20th century’s most devastating conflict.
WSU’s Singh contributes to National Academies report on climate change, extreme weather
The report concludes that it’s increasingly possible to identify how climate change contributes to heat waves, storms, and other extreme weather events.
Reports & Updates
Foundations respond to changes in federal funding
Over the past week, several foundations have stepped forward to offer rapid response and bridge funding to help mitigate the impact of grant cancellations.
Message from the President:
Leading with purpose
This is a time to carry forward both resolve and innovative thinking with a healthy dose of Cougar pride.
‘Let’s get to work — together’
President Elizabeth Cantwell thanks the university community in a personal message, sharing her belief that WSU is uniquely positioned not only to adapt — but to lead.
Message from Kirk and Noel Schulz:
Thank you, WSU
On their last day as President and First Lady of Washington State University, Kirk and Noel Schulz extend one final thank you for a memorable nine years.