Willamette and Pacific Universities Plan Merger

If approved, the merger between Willamette (above) and Pacific would create the largest private university in Oregon.

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Pacific University and Willamette University have signed a letter of intent to merge, pending approval, which would create the largest private institution in Oregon if the deal is finalized.

Together the two institutions have a collective study body of about 6,000 students.

“If finalized and approved, this merger would be a defining moment for private higher education in the region. Pacific and Willamette are both deeply rooted in Oregon’s history and have educated thousands of leaders who have helped make the Pacific Northwest synonymous with innovation and excellence,” Willamette president Steve Thorsett said in a news release.

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