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.

Mission

Eastern Washington University provides an inclusive, equitable, and transformative learning experience, driving the pursuit of knowledge with affordable academic excellence.


Vision

Eastern Washington University provides an education rooted in the liberal arts, designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities facing the region. Characterized by a student-centered focus and opportunities for applied learning in high-demand fields, this education creates upward social mobility and intellectual growth for our students that supports a healthy, sustainable, and economically successful region.


Value Statements

Academic Excellence

As a community of learners, we pursue truth and advance knowledge through creative works, research, and scholarship. Our student-centered education provides excellent teaching, dynamic conversations, and a robust intellectual experience both inside and outside the classroom. We provide applied learning opportunities to prepare students for future success, invest in our workforce and create opportunities for professional growth for students, faculty and staff.

Accessibility

Eastern Washington University strives to create a more inclusive, obtainable, and equitable college education.

Belonging through Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to building an inclusive, supportive, and equitable university community. We strive to integrate the principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion into all university operations, fostering an environment that nurtures a sense of belonging among all members of the community. Students, staff, and faculty, are seen, understood, and appreciated for the talents they bring to our educational community.

Regional Impact and Regional Contribution

We promote economic vitality and regional success through scholarly research, dedicated service, and educational programs that meet regional workforce needs in high-demand fields. When combined with our commitment to a liberal arts education, we enhance social mobility, inclusivity, and the well-being of our community while remaining nimble to its ever-changing demands.

Student Success

We embrace all students. Students’ needs are complex, and student success requires student engagement and positive outcomes. We are committed to supporting all our students with a focus on creating conditions informed by the needs of our first-generation, low-income, and other structurally marginalized students.

Sustainability

We are leaders committed to sustainability as a balance between the needs of the environment, the needs of the economy, and equitable outcomes for current and future generations

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.

2024-25 College of Distinction Engineering badge 2024-25 College of Distinction Education badge 2024-25 Business Colleges of Distinction College of Distinction - Washington 2024-25 College of Distinction Career Dev badge

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.