News from the Director: Happy New Year to Ducks Everywhere
The University of Oregon is off to a strong start in 2026. Across campus, new research is emerging, while partnerships give students hands-on experiences that prepare them for careers in their chosen fields.
Campus spaces are evolving, too. Hamilton Hall’s removal is making way for a new outdoor area and beach volleyball courts, while the UO Portland campus reflects the university’s ongoing efforts to update and expand learning environments.
This issue features our College of Education, consistently ranked among the nation’s top programs. Faculty and students are developing teaching methods and literacy approaches now used in classrooms from Portland to Paris. To stay up to date on the latest news from the COE, visit their website. Whether you’re inspired by this work or passionate about another area, charitable gift annuities allow you to support the UO and receive fixed payments and immediate tax advantages in return.
To learn more, contact the Gift Planning team.
Thank you for being part of the Duck community!
Sharon Heth
Senior Director, Gift Planning
Looking Outward as Life Changes: One Donor's Approach to Planned Giving
At 86, Alan Eliason is centering generosity in his life—supporting educators, bilingual classrooms, and UO students through planned giving.
Inside UO’s Transformative Teacher-Preparation Pathway
With a unique 4+1 model, hands-on classroom experience, and donor-funded scholarships, UO’s Educational Foundations program is shaping the next generation of public-school teachers.
A First-Generation Student Paves the Way for Future Learners
With support from the Berdine Jernigan Scholarship, Anahi Cortes '28 is preparing to create classrooms where every student feels welcome.
Give Back and Gain Security with a Charitable Gift Annuity
Do you want steady income and a chance to help UO students? A charitable gift annuity lets you do both. For many UO supporters, the appeal of a charitable gift annuity is simple: dependable income and lasting impact.
What can you tell us about this photo from Special Collections and University Archives? If it brings back memories—or if you have a nostalgic photo from your time at the UO—we’d love to hear from you. Share your story or submit a photo for possible publication to giftplan@uoregon.edu.