About Eastern

EWU is a driving force for the culture, economy, workforce and vitality of Washington state. Our graduates think critically and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

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Mission & Vision

Eastern Washington University expands opportunities for personal transformation through excellence in learning.

EWU achieves its mission by:

  • Enhancing access to higher education in the Inland Northwest and beyond by recruiting and supporting traditional college-bound students, non-traditional students, and those from underserved populations
  • Delivering high-quality academic programs that undergo regular, rigorous review informed by data and assessment of student learning
  • Delivering a high-quality co-curriculum designed to develop the intellectual, cultural, personal, and practical aspects of students’ lives
  • Promoting student success by supporting student engagement and timely degree completion

Our three core themes are access, learning and completion.

Vision Statement

Eastern Washington University is a driving force for the culture, economy, workforce and vitality of Washington state. Our graduates think critically and make meaningful contributions to both their career fields and their communities. EWU is the public university whose students, faculty, staff and alumni make profound and significant contributions to the economic and social vitality of the region. EWU remains the best value for higher education in the state.

Fast Facts

Alumni Fast Facts

EWU Alumni are over 116,000 and growing. Learn about some of our outstanding Alumni, top employers and more.

Alumni Facts

Student Fast Facts

Our students come from all over the state and country. Learn about unique programs, areas of study and how many students attend EWU.

Student Facts

College of Distinction

By Demonstrating continued dedication to high-impact educational practices, Eastern Washington University has been named one of the nation’s Colleges of Distinction.

This recognition shows Eastern has created a truly unique learning environment where students not only earn their college degree and valuable life experience, but they also participate in innovative learning opportunities including services and community-based learning programs, diversity initiatives, study abroad programs, undergraduate research and interdisciplinary programs.

College of Distinction - Nursing College of Distinction - Engineering College of Distinction - Education College of Distinction - Business College of Distinction - Washington College of Distinction - Career Development

Land Acknowledgement

Eastern Washington University resides within the traditional homelands of the Spokane People and other tribes who are connected through their shared history of this region.

This land holds their cultural DNA and it is their Ancestors who are here and bring forth the knowledge of this place—the knowledge that comes from the land.

ALL IN - The EWU Creed

As a member of the Eastern Washington University community, I will exemplify the traits of an Eastern Eagle: Grit, Grace, Gratitude and Greatness. I pledge to uphold these principles in all aspects of my collegiate experience and beyond, because I am ALL IN.

GRIT

Draw upon my passion and inner strength to create personal, academic and social change so that every Eagle thrives.

GRACE

Foster a culture of respect, inclusivity, commitment and honesty, and celebrate diversity.

GRATITUDE

Act with honor, integrity and accountability in my interactions with students, faculty, staff and neighbors.

GREATNESS

Strive for excellence as an engaged Eagle and scholar by contributing to the greater good of the community.

Founded

Eastern Washington University was founded in 1882 by a $10,000 grant from expressman Benjamin Pierce Cheney, originally known as Benjamin P. Cheney Academy to honor its founder. In 1889, the school was renamed State Normal School at Cheney and in 1937 to Eastern Washington College of Education. After becoming known as Eastern Washington State College, the school added various graduate and undergraduate degree programs. In 1977, the school’s name was changed for the final time to Eastern Washington University by the Washington State Legislature.