Southern Oregon University

With origins as the Ashland Academy in 1872, Southern Oregon University (SOU) has served the educational and cultural needs of Southern Oregon and Northern California communities, often referred to as the State of Jefferson region, for 150 years. Once a normal school focused on teacher training, the university now offers a wide-ranging and innovative curriculum, outstanding graduate programs, champion athletic programs, and a center for the arts. With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, SOU is nationally recognized for diversity and sustainability initiatives. Southern Oregon University has garnered awards as an LGBTQ-friendly campus, provided model outreach programs to Latino and Native American youth, and was named the first Bee Campus USA in 2015. Using photographs largely drawn from the University Archives, Southern Oregon University tells the story of a remarkable academic institution, its students, and academic leaders.