WWU Stories

Features, research highlights and stories about our people

The curious, compelling, and somewhat addictive case of Modest Bob

A sign featuring SpongeBob SquarePants, dubbed "Modest Bob," asks "Who is this respectable gentleman?" It's taped to a pole on Western's PAC Plaza.

WWU Chemistry students Kayla Fugami and Gabriel Black publish paper on nitrogen coupling

Six students wearing lab coats and chemistry professor John Gilbertson smile for the camera while standing in the middle of a chemistry lab.

WWU professor publishes study on the genetics and evolution of the human pelvis in Science

A woman examines a light-beige pelvic bone model. She's wearing a dark gray long-sleeved shirt and jeans. The lab setting features wooden cabinets and a crowded countertop.

Celebrating APIDA Heritage Month

APIDA Heritage Month (2025) celebrates Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi American cultures.

Graduate Student Erich Walkenhauer awarded grant to study bacterial protein linked to infectious disease

Smiling scientist in a lab coat holds a sample of green gel. Laboratory equipment is in the background.

ONE QUICK QUESTION: The Chuckanut Drive landslide

Rockfall debris covers a road below a steep, tree-lined hillside. Large boulders obstruct the roadway under a clear blue sky.

English's Kami Westhoff's new poetry chapbook “Sacral” wins national competition

Smiling woman with short, curly auburn hair wears a dark blazer over a burgundy top.  She has a tree-of-life pendant necklace. Outdoor setting.

Anthropology's Tesla Monson and Marianne Brasil publish new paper on the evolution of our primate relatives

Overhead view of the large, metal sculpture in front of the Chemistry building

WWU students take top honors in recent Chinese Proficiency Competition

Upward view of the sky through fall foliage

College of the Environment faculty publish new research on fish traits, blue carbon, and more

Three researchers wade in shallow water, using nets attached to long poles to collect samples. They wear orange life vests. A calm lake and grassy shore are visible.

Biology’s Alejandro Acevedo-Gutierrez named an AAAS Fellow

Man with sunglasses sits on driftwood at beach. Sky is blue, waves are visible. He wears a tan jacket.

WWU Theatre student Ella Newborn wins honor from Kennedy Center; will perform role in Washington, D.C. week of April 15

Ella Newborn onstage at Western