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

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.

Values

  • Academic Excellence
  • Accessibility
  • Belonging 
  • Regional Impact and Regional Contribution
  • Student Success
  • Sustainability

Learn more about our Strategic Plan.

Fast Facts

Alumni Fast Facts

EWU's alumni network is 125,000+ strong and growing. Learn about some of our outstanding alumni, see top employers, and more.

Alumni Facts

Student Fast Facts

Our students come from all over the state and country. Discover 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.

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Land Acknowledgement

At Eastern Washington University, we are proud to recognize the land of the Spokane Tribe and other tribes that shared the land for fishing and trading. The Spokane Tribe, Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, the Kalispel Tribe, the Nez Perce Tribe and the Yakama Nation are integral to the cultural heritage and traditional ethnological knowledge of the land.

Native American heritage is woven into the fabric of our institution, enriching our community through tribal culture, historical teachings, and tribal language, and is embraced daily by students, staff, faculty, and the Eastern Washington community.

At EWU, we are committed to reflecting on and acknowledging the historical injustices of genocide and the forced removal of tribal peoples and all our relatives. EWU recognizes and honors tribal sovereignty and government to government relationships with tribes.

From here forward, EWU will remain committed to supporting, honoring, and recognizing the Native American community and the dynamic contributions that are shared with our university.

Members of the drum circle gather around the drum on the edge of the prairie

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.

History

Eastern Washington University’s story begins in 1882 with the founding of the Benjamin P. Cheney Academy, created to bring higher education to the Cheney community. By 1889—the same year Washington became a state—the school became the State Normal School at Cheney, beginning its evolution into a leader in education and regional development. Over time, it expanded its programs and became Eastern Washington College of Education in 1937 and Eastern Washington State College in 1961.

In 1977, it was officially renamed Eastern Washington University, continuing to grow to meet workforce and community needs. In 2024, EWU became the region’s polytechnic—reinforcing its commitment to hands-on, career-focused learning and preparing students for real-world success.

Showalter Hall