A letter from President Murthy
Dear OSU community,
The promise of Oregon State University is reflected in what we make possible for students, communities and the world.
Through the university's strategic plan, Prosperity Widely Shared, we are pursuing three ambitious goals that express that promise:
- Creating big discoveries that drive big solutions – “Doubling Research Expenditures”
- Helping every student graduate - “Increasing six-year graduation rates to 80%”
- Fueling a thriving world - “Becoming a force for economic growth in our state”
These goals are coming to life and building powerful momentum through the talent, determination and generosity of Beavers everywhere.
I am pleased to share a few highlights.
Oregon State: a university focused on big discoveries that drive big solutions
The complex was made possible in large part by two transformational $50 million gifts: one from Oregon State alumni Lori Huang and Jen-Hsun Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA, and another from the Wayne and Gladys Valley Foundation.
Oregon State: a university where every student graduates
Students are at the heart of everything we do.
At our 2026 commencement, Oregon State graduated a record 8,785 students. And we're proud that our alumni go on to lead fulfilling careers and lives. OSU alumni earn nearly 20%, or $11,400, more than the national four-year college benchmark of about $72,000 per year.
But we need to do even better. At OSU, we are striving for every student to graduate. It is unacceptable for students to enroll in college, take on debt and leave without a degree, financially worse off than when they started.
Oregon State’s strategic plan, Prosperity Widely Shared, calls on all of Beaver Nation to ensure that every OSU student has the resources they need to graduate. The university is laser-focused on enhancements to advising, first year and transfer experiences, career preparation and financial resources.
As donors, alumni, parents and friends, you can also make an incredible impact. Share your OSU pride with prospective students and families, volunteer with OSU and support student success and scholarships.
Last academic year alone, over 5,000 OSU students benefited from donor-funded scholarships. One of our most impactful scholarship programs is called Finish in Four, which helps Oregon students graduate in four years with as little debt as possible. This academic year, 100 students across all nine OSU undergraduate colleges received Finish in Four scholarships, which help cover the gap between tuition and other scholarships they receive.
To every donor and volunteer investing in our students: thank you. Your support helps more students graduate prepared to build fulfilling lives, meaningful careers and stronger communities.
Oregon State: a university that fuels a thriving world
Oregon is home to one of the country's largest and most advanced semiconductor sectors, making it a key contributor to both the state's economy and America's technological standing. This important industry is strengthened by Oregon State University’s expertise and leadership.
Frontiers of Advanced Semiconductor Technology is a powerful example of OSU as an economic engine for our state and nation. Semiconductors, or computer chips, power nearly every aspect of modern life, from smartphones, computers and vehicles to medical devices, artificial intelligence and national defense systems. Because they are critical to national security, economic resilience and global competitiveness, strengthening the U.S. semiconductor industry has become a national priority.
Led by Oregon State, the FAST coalition brings together 100 partners across higher education, industry, government, trade organizations and community organizations. In July 2026, the National Science Foundation selected FAST as one of 12 NSF Engines. Over the next 10 years, the initiative will infuse Oregon’s semiconductor industry with up to $160 million in federal funding and an expected $340 million in additional co-investments from state, industry, and partner organizations.
The FAST team estimates that the effort will contribute to the creation of 25,000 jobs and 180 startup companies in the region over the next decade.
Our ambitions are significant because the opportunities before us are significant. Together, we can create discoveries that improve lives, help more students earn their degrees, and strengthen communities throughout Oregon and beyond.
Thank you for your partnership and belief in Oregon State University.
Sincerely,
Jayathi Y. Murthy
President, Oregon State University
Want to get more involved at OSU?
Volunteer with OSU - Volunteers are an essential part of the Oregon State community. By sharing their time, expertise and financial support, they help create opportunities for students, fuel discovery and innovation, and extend OSU’s reach across Oregon and beyond.
Advocate with the Beaver Caucus - The Beaver Caucus is a passionate group of alumni and friends who work together to ensure state leaders understand OSU’s impact on the state and urge them to make transformational investments in higher education and students.
Check out our event calendar for opportunities to connect with fellow Beavs and celebrate OSU.
“The promise of Oregon State University is reflected in what we make possible for students, communities and the world. Whether you’re a proud graduate, generous donor, dedicated volunteer or all of the above, I am deeply grateful for your commitment to OSU. Together, we can create discoveries that improve lives, help more students earn their degrees and strengthen communities throughout Oregon and beyond.”
“The promise of Oregon State University is reflected in what we make possible for students, communities and the world. Whether you’re a proud graduate, generous donor, dedicated volunteer or all of the above, I am deeply grateful for your commitment to OSU. Together, we can create discoveries that improve lives, help more students earn their degrees and strengthen communities throughout Oregon and beyond.”