aerial view of Western's campus at night, with golden lights surrounded by dark trees

Western Washington University Earns Five-Year Extension of APLU’s Innovation & Economic Prosperity Designation

Bellingham, WA – February 19, 2025 – Western Washington University (WWU) has been awarded a five-year extension of its prestigious Innovation & Economic Prosperity (IEP) designation from the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU). This recognition reaffirms WWU’s ongoing commitment to fostering economic growth, innovation, and community engagement throughout the region.

WWU first earned the IEP designation in 2019, joining a distinguished group of higher education institutions recognized for their leadership in regional economic development. The designation highlights WWU’s continued impact in key areas such as talent development, innovation, and community partnerships.

“We are honored to receive this extension from APLU, which reflects the university’s dedication to supporting economic prosperity in Washington and beyond,” said WWU Provost and Executive Vice President, Brad Johnson. “Our faculty, students, and community partners play an essential role in driving innovation, workforce development, and collaborative solutions that benefit both local and regional economies, and overall, helps advance our strategic goal of expanding Western’s impact on the region we serve.”

APLU’s IEP designation is awarded to institutions that demonstrate a clear commitment to economic engagement and sustained progress in aligning their academic, research, and service missions with economic and community needs. Universities must undergo a rigorous self-assessment and application process every five years to maintain their status.

As part of the IEP community, WWU has actively participated in annual reflection memos, peer collaboration, and strategic initiatives designed to enhance economic and community engagement efforts. This five-year extension solidifies WWU’s standing as a leader in higher education’s role in regional development.

For more information about WWU’s IEP designation and its contributions to economic development, read the original 2019 designation announcement.

Media Contact

James McCafferty
James.McCafferty@wwu.edu

Jonathan Higgins
Jonathan.Higgins@wwu.edu