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Greater, We Ascend: The Campaign for University of Puget Sound

Experiential learning—the process of learning by doing—immerses students in the real-world applications of their studies. From field research and internships to hands-on projects and experiments, this approach enhances students’ understanding of course material while offering greater insight into their own skills, interests, and values. As a result, every Puget Sound graduate has the confidence to collaborate, lead, and make a difference, prepared to tackle the challenges of an ever-changing world.

It’s something you do.

At Puget Sound, an education isn’t just something you get; it’s something you do. It’s a whole-person experience, fueled by curiosity and community. Together, we live, learn, work, and play. On campus, throughout Tacoma, and around the world, we put our ideas to the test, each of us students, teachers, and mentors exploring endless ways to learn in and out of the classroom.

When our undergraduate and graduate students take an active role in their education, they become empowered to apply what they learn to make the world a better place. That’s why we’re committed to providing all Loggers the opportunity to complete at least one experiential learning activity, such as study abroad (with programs in more than 40 countries), community-based learning, independent research, clinical fieldwork, internships, and more.

Pillar Fundraising Objectives

Establish an on-campus Center for Experiential Learning, visibly centering and strengthening our commitment to learning by doing while providing a space for students to interact and collaborate.

Establish the Institute for Pacific Rim Studies, deepening student opportunity and involvement in the wider region. The institute will feature the PacRim “West” Program, a new major and minor in Pacific Rim studies, and a one-year master’s program—the first graduate degree of its kind in the United States.

Engage more students in research opportunities in the sciences and health sciences, bolster financial support for mentored student research and clinical internships, and promote excellence in summer research through improved laboratory equipment and facilities.

Increase support for students to explore their passions in depth and gain valuable real-world experience through internships, allowing for greater enrichment and involvement in their chosen fields of study.

Provide greater opportunity and support for Puget Sound students to engage with and learn from cultures, economies, and populations across the country and around the globe through immersive study abroad and study away programs.

Enhance the suite of physiological, psychological, and personal resources, from dedicated fitness trainers and personnel to improved performance metrics and wellness offerings, to facilitate team camaraderie and student leadership, and to enable our student-athletes to compete at the championship level, excelling on and off the field.

Support of the Puget Sound Fund’s Academic Program designation helps provide resources, curricula, and high-impact experiences to ensure that a Puget Sound education is exceptional and compelling.