Since 1986, Alaska Airlines has provided an annual in-kind contribution of round-trip flight vouchers for The Alliance and its member institutions. These vouchers are used to recruit students, meet with donors, alumni and stakeholders, attend academic conferences, and participate in critical professional and institutional events. Collectively, the partnership has enabled Alliance colleges and universities to expand their reach, strengthen relationships, and invest in professional development for faculty and staff.

Over the course of this enduring partnership, the cumulative value of Alaska Airlines’ in-kind contributions totals more than $2.2 million, with nearly 2,750 tickets used by The Alliance member institutions.

“Alaska Airlines’ continued generosity makes a tangible difference for our colleges and universities,” said Brent Wilder, President of the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities. “These vouchers provide direct financial relief while opening doors to new opportunities. Most importantly, they facilitate invaluable face-to-face interactions. While technology allows for virtual connections, nothing can replace the power of personal meetings in building relationships, fostering collaboration, and truly understanding the needs of our community.”

The Alliance applauds Alaska Airlines for this invaluable partnership, which translates into meaningful support for member institutions across Oregon. This collaboration empowers colleges to attract outstanding students from across the nation, connect and reconnect with dedicated alumni and friends, and invest in ongoing professional development for faculty and staff. Together, The Alliance and Alaska Airlines help ensure that Oregon’s private, nonprofit colleges and universities continue to thrive as pillars of opportunity, innovation, and progress in the communities they serve.

To learn more about establishing a partnership with The Alliance like that of Alaska Airlines, please contact Alliance President Brent Wilder at 503.342.0004 or brent@oaicu.org.

About The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (“The Alliance”)

The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (The Alliance) is a nonprofit membership organization that represents Oregon’s independent, nonprofit higher education sector. Its mission is to advocate for and support its member colleges and universities—regionally accredited, private, nonprofit institutions—by addressing their changing needs with agility and responsiveness. The Alliance fosters collaboration, strengthens institutional capacity, and champions the transformative impact of independent, nonprofit higher education in Oregon. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org or email info@oaicu.org.

Below are the official start dates for each Alliance member campus:

• Bushnell University | August 25
• Corban University | August 25
• George Fox University | August 25
• Lewis & Clark College | September 2
• Linfield University | August 25
• Pacific University | August 25
• Reed College | September 2
• University of Portland | August 25
• Warner Pacific University | August 25
• Western Seminary | August 30
• Willamette University | August 25

All Alliance member institutions share a common goal: providing transformative educational experiences that prepare students for success in today’s world. These colleges and universities are known for combining academic rigor with personalized learning environments—often characterized by small class sizes and strong faculty-student engagement.

Affordability and access remain top priorities across The Alliance. Member institutions offer a wide array of financial aid options, including Institutional Aid, the Oregon Opportunity Grant, Oregon’s Need-Based Scholarship, and the Federal Pell Grant, making private higher education more accessible to students from all backgrounds.

For many students, like Selena Ayala Villegas, the decision to attend an Alliance institution goes beyond academics. “I chose this institution for its ideal location and commitment to small class sizes, which creates a close-knit learning environment where I can truly connect with professors and peers,” said Villegas, a first-generation college student majoring in public health. “I’m passionate about helping my community navigate the healthcare system. I’ve seen firsthand the barriers to accessing care, and I want to be part of the solution.”

As the new academic year begins, The Alliance campuses are filled with anticipation, energy, and a shared commitment to helping students thrive. From the first day of class to graduation and beyond, these institutions are focused on empowering students to make a difference—in their careers, in their communities, and in the world.

About The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (The Alliance)
The Alliance’s mission is to advocate for and nimbly serve their member institutions – regionally accredited, nonprofit, private colleges and universities in Oregon – by responding promptly and flexibly to their evolving needs, fostering collaboration and increasing organizational capacity, and championing the transformative power of independent, nonprofit higher education. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org or email info@oaicu.org.

]]> https://oaicu.org/thealliance-nexuslicensinggroup-partnership/ Wed, 18 Dec 2024 20:52:43 +0000 https://oaicu.org/?p=15706 TUALATIN, OR – Nexus Licensing Group, a leading full-service collegiate licensing agency, and the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (The Alliance) are proud to announce a strategic partnership aimed at providing trademark licensing services to The Alliance’s member institutions. This collaboration will help member colleges and universities enhance their brand presence and increase revenue opportunities through effective licensing strategies.

Under the agreement, Nexus will offer a comprehensive suite of services to participating member institutions, including expert guidance on licensing best practices, brand development strategies, and methods for expanding revenue streams. The focus will be on leveraging both traditional retail channels and emerging digital platforms to enhance the reach and financial impact of the member institutions’ brands.

Expanding Revenue and Brand Reach

The partnership aims to help member colleges and universities unlock new revenue sources while promoting their brands in innovative ways. By tapping into the power of digital marketing and retail licensing, institutions will be better equipped to navigate the evolving marketplace and reach new audiences.

“”Nexus’ extensive expertise in branding, digital marketing, and licensing management will be a tremendous asset to our members,” said Brent Wilder, President of The Alliance. “We are excited about the opportunities this partnership offers and look forward to the valuable guidance Nexus will provide to help our member institutions strengthen their brand presence and grow their revenue.”

“We look forward to working with Brent, The Alliance, and each participating member institution,” said Brian Young, Founder/Managing Director of Nexus.  “We have significant experience helping institutions launch newly formed licensing programs, and help ensure they are taking full advantage of all the benefits a licensing program has to offer. We look forward to supporting the growth and development of each Alliance member.”

A Strong Foundation for Success

Nexus brings years of experience in licensing, brand development, and digital marketing to the table, making them a trusted partner for organizations looking to expand their brand and revenue. The collaboration will allow Nexus to support The Alliance’s members with tailored strategies that align with their unique goals and opportunities.

About the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities

The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (The Alliance) is a nonprofit membership organization that represents Oregon’s independent, nonprofit higher education sector. Its mission is to advocate for and support its member colleges and universities—regionally accredited, private, nonprofit institutions—by addressing their changing needs with agility and responsiveness. The Alliance fosters collaboration, strengthens institutional capacity, and champions the transformative impact of independent, nonprofit higher education in Oregon. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org.

About Nexus Licensing Group

Nexus Licensing Group is an agency dedicated to supporting each of its client’s needs, goals, and objectives as it relates to trademark management and brand development. Nexus currently represents over 55 colleges, universities, and athletic conferences. The firm prides itself on the customized plan of management and support it provides to each client institution.  More information can be found at www.nexuslicensinggroup.com.

“This year has presented extraordinary challenges for our member institutions, particularly with the technical issues surrounding the FAFSA process,” said Brent Wilder, President of the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities. “The FAFSA is a critical tool for students seeking financial aid, and the glitches in its distribution undoubtedly caused significant stress for both students and financial aid offices. Nevertheless, our member colleges and universities adapted quickly, showing remarkable perseverance and commitment to student success.”

Key Enrollment Highlights for Fall 2024:

• Total Enrollment: 23,079 students across 11 member institutions.
• First-Generation Students: 19% of students are first-generation, marking a year-over-year increase of nearly 3%.
• Transfer Students: 48% of transfer students have previously attended an Oregon community college.
• Pell-Eligible Students: 27.4% of undergraduate first-time, full-time, degree-seeking students are Pell-eligible, up from 24.4% in Fall 2023.
• Retention Rates: Retention remains strong with nearly 95% of Fall 2023 cohort students returning for the Spring 2024 semester. Notably, Oregon Pell-eligible students saw a 5% improvement in first-year Spring retention, reaching 93.8%. Second-year Fall retention for Pell-eligible students also improved, rising nearly 2% to 81.7%. For non-Oregon Pell-eligible students, retention rates showed a mixed trend: first-year Spring retention improved to 92%, up 2% from 2023, while second-year Fall retention saw a decline of over 3%, falling to 78.3%.
• Oregon Students: Oregon residents make up 47% of the total student body.
• Undergraduate vs. Graduate Enrollment: 70% of students are enrolled in undergraduate programs, while 30% are pursuing graduate degrees.

The Alliance’s member institutions serve a diverse range of students, including Pell-eligible, first-generation, and adult learners. Despite the FAFSA-related challenges, the institutions of The Alliance were able to support students through personal financial aid guidance and institutional aid programs, helping many students navigate the complexities and continue their education.

“The resilience of Oregon’s independent, nonprofit colleges and universities speaks to the dedicated support systems in place at our institutions,” said Wilder. “Our focus on supporting students through personalized financial aid guidance, institutional aid, and comprehensive retention initiatives continues to pay dividends.”

Looking Ahead

With FAFSA-related delays and complications now behind them, The Alliance’s member institutions are optimistic about future enrollment cycles. They will continue to focus on enhancing academic programs, improving student retention, and ensuring that all students—regardless of background—have the opportunity to succeed.

“We are proud of our member institutions’ ability to provide strong academic programs and exceptional student support, especially for Pell-eligible and first-generation students,” said Wilder. “We remain focused on advancing our collective mission to prioritize the student experience, focusing on accessibility, affordability, and graduation outcomes as the sector adapts to an evolving higher education landscape.”

About The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (The Alliance)
The Alliance is comprised of 11 private, nonprofit, independent colleges and universities. These institutions deliver high-quality experiential learning with high-impact teaching strategies. The Alliance is the collective voice of private, nonprofit education in public policy advocacy. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org or email info@oaicu.org.

Below is a list of academic year start dates for each of The Alliance’s member campus:

Bushnell University | August 26th
Corban University | August 28th
George Fox University | August 26th
Lewis & Clark College | September 2nd
Linfield University| August 26th
Pacific University | August 26th
Reed College | September 3rd
University of Portland | August 26th
Warner Pacific University | August 22nd
Western Seminary | August 31st
Willamette University | August 21st

With classes commencing on varying dates, Alliance institutions are gearing up to offer exceptional educational experiences to their diverse student bodies. The Alliance campuses are renowned for their academic excellence and affordability, offering various financial aid options such as Institutional Aid, the Oregon Opportunity Grant, Oregon’s Need-Based Scholarship, and the Federal Pell Grant to make high-quality education accessible to all.

Student Kai Larson chose to attend an Alliance school “due to the low student-to-faculty ratio. I anticipated -and have found- success from that ratio, in being able to form close relationships with professors that have led to jobs and research experience, and improved understanding of my studies through informal opportunities for learning.”

As the academic year unfolds, a sense of anticipation and excitement envelops The Alliance campuses, heralding a year of academic accomplishments, personal development, and abundant opportunities. Students are encouraged to embark on this thrilling journey, pursuing their aspirations with unwavering dedication and enthusiasm.

About The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (The Alliance)
The Alliance is comprised of 11 private, nonprofit, independent colleges and universities. These institutions deliver high-quality experiential learning with high-impact teaching strategies. The Alliance is the collective voice of private, nonprofit education in public policy advocacy. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org or email info@oaicu.org.

Contact:
Brent Wilder, President
brent@oaicu.org

A Commitment to Shaping Policy and Community

Comprised entirely of The Alliance’s member college and university presidents, The Alliance Board of Trustees brings a wealth of experience and passion to the table. Their influence extends beyond the walls of their campuses as they actively serve on numerous boards and organizations. These include influential entities like the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, The Council of Independent Colleges, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, and the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities. Through their dedicated volunteer work, the Board shapes policy and advocacy efforts that directly impact the landscape of private, non-profit higher education in Oregon and nationally.

Beyond the Boardroom: Investing in Students

The Alliance Board’s commitment extends far beyond policy. These leaders understand the importance of fostering student success in a multitude of ways. Whether it’s spearheading scholarship initiatives or creating innovative programs, the Board invests significant time and effort into ensuring their students thrive. Their dedication to improving the lives of their students is a cornerstone of The Alliance’s mission.

“As presidents of our institutions, we wear many hats. But one of our most important roles is advocating for the future of private higher education in Oregon. This advocacy directly translates to improved resources, innovative programs, and ultimately, a brighter future for our students,” said Dr. Robert Kelly, University of Portland President and Alliance Board of Trustees Chair.

A Heartfelt Thank You

The Alliance takes this opportunity to express its deepest gratitude to the Board of Trustees. Their unwavering dedication to advocacy, policy, and student success is a driving force behind Oregon’s thriving independent, nonprofit higher education sector. The Alliance’s Board of Trustees is comprised of the following:

• Joseph Womack (vice chair), Bushnell University President
• John Mark Yeats, Corban University President
• Robin Baker, George Fox University President
• Robin Holmes-Sullivan (secretary), Lewis & Clark College President
• Rebecca “Becky” Johnson, Linfield University Interim President
• Jennifer “Jenny” Coyle (treasurer), Pacific University President
• Audrey Bilger, Reed College President
• Robert Kelly (chair), University of Portland President
• Brian Johnson, Warner Pacific University President
• Chuck Conniry, Western Seminary President
• Stephen Thorsett, Willamette University President

About The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (“The Alliance”)
The Alliance is comprised of 11 private, nonprofit, independent colleges and universities. These institutions deliver high-quality experiential learning with high-impact teaching strategies. The Alliance is the collective voice of private, nonprofit education in public policy advocacy. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org or email info@oaicu.org.

Departing Board Officers Honored
The Alliance extends its deepest gratitude to outgoing Treasurer, President Robin Baker of George Fox University, and outgoing Secretary, President Audrey Bilger of Reed College. Both leaders have reached their term limits as Officers but will continue to serve on the Alliance Board with President Baker continuing to serve as a member of the Executive Committee.

“President Baker and President Bilger have provided invaluable oversight and fresh perspectives throughout their terms,” said Dr. Robert Kelly, Chair of the Alliance Board and University of Portland President. “Their dedication to ensuring a strong future for Oregon’s private, non-profit colleges and universities is deeply appreciated.”

Welcoming New Leadership
The Alliance is pleased to welcome President Jennifer Coyle of Pacific University as the new Board Treasurer and President Robin Holmes-Sullivan of Lewis & Clark College as the new Board Secretary.

“Dr. Coyle and Dr. Holmes-Sullivan bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the Executive Committee,” Dr. Kelly continued. “Their leadership will be instrumental in advancing the Alliance’s mission to champion the value of independent, nonprofit higher education in Oregon.”

About the Incoming Executive Committee Members

• President Jennifer Coyle, Pacific University: Dr. Coyle brings nearly 30 years of experience in higher education and leadership. Her return to Pacific, where she is an alumna and former faculty member, signifies her deep commitment to the institution and the Alliance’s mission. Her expertise in leadership and a focus on affordability will be crucial assets.
• President Robin Holmes-Sullivan, Lewis & Clark College: A respected leader with three decades of experience, President Holmes-Sullivan will leverage her expertise in higher education administration and fostering positive campus cultures. Her proven track record of student success and commitment to a thriving academic environment will be invaluable.

About The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (“The Alliance”)
The Alliance is comprised of 11 private, nonprofit, independent colleges and universities. These institutions deliver high-quality experiential learning with high-impact teaching strategies. The Alliance is the collective voice of private, nonprofit education in public policy advocacy. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org or email info@oaicu.org.

“As a first-generation student, navigating college was scary and intimidating,” she said. “I didn’t want to burden my parents, especially as my mom already did her best to keep our family afloat. I was determined to figure it out all on my own, but fortunately I didn’t have to.”

Since 1986, Alaska Airlines has provided an annual in-kind contribution, providing Alliance member colleges with round-trip flight vouchers to use for recruiting students, meeting with donors, attending academic conferences and events, and more. These vouchers enable Alliance colleges to reach a wider range of prospective students and supporters, and provide valuable professional development opportunities for their employees. The cumulative value of Alaska Airlines’ in-kind contributions totals over $2 million and nearly 2,600 tickets have been used over the course of the partnership.

“I extend our deepest gratitude to Alaska Airlines for their incredibly generous gift of flight vouchers,” said Western Seminary President Chuck Conniry. “Firstly, these vouchers provide much-needed support for our budget bottom line. Traveling to connect with students and alumni across the country can be a significant financial strain, and Alaska Airlines’ generosity alleviates that pressure, allowing us to allocate resources more effectively towards our core programs and initiatives.

Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, these vouchers facilitate invaluable face-to-face interactions. While technology allows for virtual connections, nothing can replace the power of personal meetings in building relationships, fostering collaboration, and truly understanding the needs of our community.”

The Alliance applauds Alaska Airlines for their invaluable partnership, which translates into direct financial relief for our member institutions. This support empowers our colleges to attract outstanding students from across the nation, reconnect with dedicated alumni and friends, and invest in ongoing professional development for our faculty and staff. Through this collaboration, we collectively cultivate a transformative impact on the communities we serve, ensuring that Oregon’s private, non-profit colleges and universities continue to thrive as pillars of opportunity and progress.

“We are deeply grateful to Alaska Airlines for their continued support of our member institutions,” said Brent Wilder, President of the Alliance. “Their generosity allows us to better serve our students, communities, and the entire state of Oregon.”

Of their longstanding partnership with The Alliance, Joelle Skaga Nausin, Alaska Airlines’ Community Relations Manager, says that “Investing in Oregon’s private, non-profit colleges and universities isn’t just about connecting students and campuses – it’s about cultivating vibrant communities. These institutions are anchors of innovation, education, and opportunity, and supporting them means we’re investing in the future of Oregon’s workforce, economy, and overall well-being.”

To learn more about establishing a partnership with The Alliance like that of Alaska Airlines, please contact Alliance President Brent Wilder at 503.342.0004 or brent@oaicu.org.

About The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (“The Alliance”)
The Alliance is comprised of 12 private, nonprofit, independent colleges and universities. These institutions deliver high-quality experiential learning with high-impact teaching strategies. The Alliance is the collective voice of private, nonprofit education in public policy advocacy. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org or email info@oaicu.org.

“I am honored to be elected Chair of The Alliance’s Board of Trustees,” said Dr. Kelly. “I am committed to working with my fellow board members to advance the mission of The Alliance and support the important work of our member institutions. Independent, nonprofit colleges and universities play a vital role in Oregon’s economy and culture, transforming the lives of students. I am excited to help our member institutions thrive in the years to come.”

Dr. Kelly’s election as Chair reflects the high regard in which he is held by his peers. He is known for his collaborative leadership style, his passion for innovation, and his deep commitment to Oregon higher education.

“Dr. Kelly is a visionary leader who will be a great asset to the The Alliance as Board Chair,” said Alliance President Brent Wilder. “He is a strong advocate for independent higher education and will be an invaluable asset to the Alliance as we work to advance nonprofit higher education in Oregon.”

The Alliance is a consortium of 12 private, non-profit colleges and universities in Oregon. The organization works to support its member institutions through advocacy, collaboration, and enhancing organizational capacity.

About Dr. Robert Kelly
Dr. Robert Kelly is the 21^st president of the University of Portland. He is the first layperson and person of color to lead the university. Prior to joining UP, Dr. Kelly served as Vice President, Special Assistant to the President, and Clinical Professor at Loyola University Maryland, with responsibility for mission and identity, intercollegiate athletics, student development, emergency management, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and more.

Dr. Kelly holds a PhD in Education Policy, Planning and Administration from the University of Maryland; a master’s degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from the University of Vermont; and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Loyola University Maryland.

About The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (“The Alliance”)
The Alliance is comprised of 12 private, nonprofit, independent colleges and universities. These institutions deliver high-quality experiential learning with high-impact teaching strategies. The Alliance is the collective voice of private, nonprofit education in public policy advocacy. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org or email info@oaicu.org.