University of Puget Sound

University of Puget Sound has once again been recognized by Colleges of Distinction, earning honors for career development, business education, and, for the first time, transfer support. These distinctions reflect our commitment to helping students find belonging, gain real-world experience, and graduate prepared to lead meaningful lives and careers.
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University of Puget Sound Named a College of Distinction, Earns New Transfer Recognition The University of Puget Sound has been recognized as a College of Distinction for the 2025–2026 academic year. It has received national recognition in four categories: College of Distinction, Business College of Distinction, College of Distinction for Career Development, and, for the first time, a...

Puget Sound is stepping up to ensure financial barriers don’t stand in the way of a life-changing education. As Washington state reduces funding for key financial aid programs, the university is increasing its own need-based aid to help affected students stay focused on earning their degrees.
Learn more about Puget Sound’s commitment to access, opportunity, and student success:
https://www.pugetsound.edu/stories/university-puget-sound-bridges-financial-gap-students-following-state-aid-cuts

Thank you to everyone who returned to campus and shared their Logger spirit at reunion this past weekend. From reconnecting with old friends to making new memories, it was a joy to celebrate with you. Take a look through the photos and relive some of the best moments. We can't wait to see you again next year. Once a Logger, Always a Logger! 🪵🪓🐻

https://mediagraph.io/pugetsound/share-links/63250e66679a9010

This year's Professional Achievement Award (Lifetime) goes to Myrna J. Orsini ’68! 🏆🪵🪓
What began with a passion for sculpture grew into a lifelong commitment to creating spaces where art can thrive. Through her internationally recognized work and the founding of the Monarch Contemporary Art Center and Sculpture Park, Orsini has spent decades sharing creativity, mentorship, and joy with artists and visitors alike.
Read Myrna's full story: https://www.pugetsound.edu/stories/celebrating-alumni-excellence

This year's Young Logger Service Award goes to Jansen Jae Dacquel MPH’24! 🏆🪵🪓
For Dacquel, public health starts with people. Since graduating from Puget Sound, he has worked to expand community health resources, mentor future public health professionals, and strengthen partnerships that create lasting impact throughout the region.
Read Jansen's full story: https://www.pugetsound.edu/stories/celebrating-alumni-excellence

This year's Service to Puget Sound Award goes to Louis C. Smith ’69! 🏆🪵🪓
When Smith couldn't find the sense of belonging he was looking for on campus, he helped create it. In 1967, he founded Washington's first Black Student Union at Puget Sound, a legacy that continues to support and empower students nearly six decades later. Today, his commitment to the university remains strong through his leadership and service as president of the Black Alumni Union.
Read Louis' full story: https://www.pugetsound.edu/stories/celebrating-alumni-excellence

This year's Professional Achievement Award goes to Mike Purdy ’76, MBA’79! 🏆🪵🪓
History wasn't just something Purdy studied, it became a lifelong passion that shaped his career and legacy. A respected presidential historian, author, consultant, and public servant, he spent decades helping others better understand the people, decisions, and events that shape our world.
Read Mike's full story: https://www.pugetsound.edu/stories/celebrating-alumni-excellence

This year's Professional Achievement (Mid-Career) Award goes to Maya Mendoza-Exstrom ’03! 🏆🪵🪓

What started as a love for soccer at Puget Sound grew into a career shaping the future of the sport. From championship teams and coaching roles to leadership positions with Seattle Reign FC and the Seattle Sounders, Mendoza-Exstrom has spent her career creating opportunities for athletes and communities alike.
Read Maya's full story here: https://www.pugetsound.edu/stories/celebrating-alumni-excellence

This year's Service to Community Award goes to Stacy Wells Chapin ’91! 🏆🪵🪓
In the face of unimaginable loss, Chapin chose to turn grief into purpose. Through her support of the University of Idaho community, the founding of Ethan’s Smile Foundation, and her commitment to honoring her son’s legacy through scholarships and advocacy, she has helped countless others find hope and healing.
Read Stacy's full story: https://www.pugetsound.edu/stories/celebrating-alumni-excellence