If approved, a merger between Willamette (above) and Pacific University would create Oregon’s largest private university.
Pacific University and Willamette University have signed a letter of intent to merge, pending approval, which would create Oregon’s largest private university if the deal is finalized.
The two institutions have a combined enrollment of approximately 6,000 students.
“If finalized and approved, this merger will be a defining moment for private higher education in the region. Both Pacific University and Willamette University are deeply rooted in Oregon’s history and have produced thousands of leaders who have helped the Pacific Northwest become synonymous with innovation and excellence,” Willamette University President Steve Southett said in a release.
University of the Pacific President Jeanne Coyle emphasized a shared “commitment to addressing the region’s most pressing workforce needs while preserving the personalized, mission-driven education that defines both of our institutions” and the opportunity to leverage “our collective strengths.”
The combined entity will be known as Northwestern University.
The two institutions plan to operate under a common administrative structure but maintain separate campuses, admissions requirements, academic programs and athletic teams. Their main campuses are about an hour apart; Willamette is in Salem and Pacific is in Forest Grove. Willamette also has a campus in Portland that houses an art school.
The merger requires approval from regulators including the Department of Education.
