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Welcome to Eastern Washington University, where we inspire innovation, foster community, and lead the way in transformative education.
Office of the President
2026 Convocation
At EWU’s 2026 Convocation, the Executive Leadership Team came together to share President Shari McMahan’s vision for the year ahead and highlight progress on the university’s strategic plan. Centered on the theme of the “one degree of difference,” the address illustrated how small actions, multiplied across the university, can create powerful momentum. Leaders celebrated progress in student success and belonging, investments in faculty and staff, and Eastern’s continued evolution as the Region’s Polytechnic.
Looking ahead, the leadership team emphasized Eastern’s commitment to demonstrating the value of an EWU degree through affordability, academic excellence, and a guarantee of applied learning for every undergraduate. The address also highlighted new efforts around student well-being and artificial intelligence, significant investments in campus facilities and infrastructure, and Eastern’s role as a regional anchor through research, community engagement, sustainability, and workforce preparation. The program closed with a call for every member of the Eagle community to consider the “one degree of difference” they can make as Eastern continues building its future together.
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Learn MorePresident McMahan’s Statement of Support for EWU Students
At Eastern Washington University, our commitment to fostering a community where everyone belongs is embedded as a core value. No matter the challenges or changes in the world around us, one thing will never change: You belong here.
Our mission is to ensure access, opportunity and success for every student, and that commitment remains as strong as ever. Eastern will always provide an inclusive, supportive environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed. Our campus is a place where diverse voices are valued, cultural and identity-based events are celebrated and every member of our community is welcomed with respect.
Your voice, experiences and presence are valued here — this is your community, and we are here to support you.
About
President McMahan, a first-generation college student, has both a bachelor’s degree and a doctoral degree in social ecology from UC Irvine and a master’s degree in health science from Cal State Northridge. She came to EWU in 2022 after serving as the provost and vice president for academic affairs at California State University, San Bernardino, the first woman provost in CSUSB’s history. She has been awarded more than $5 million in external grant funding, authored more than 50 peer-reviewed publications, delivered dozens of scientific and community presentations, and served on numerous professional task forces.
President McMahan is honored to lead Eastern and looks forward to continuing to fulfill the institution’s mission to expand opportunities for personal transformation through excellence in learning.
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