About the Coalition of Oregon Public Universities

The Coalition of Oregon Public Universities (OPU) is a voluntary association comprised of Oregon’s eight public universities. OPU  was formed in 2016 as the Oregon Council of Presidents to foster coordination and collaboration among the Oregon public university presidents and other university officials. The organization underwent a rebuild in 2025 and was renamed as the Coalition of Oregon Public Universities, with a renewed focus on advocacy and student support.

While each public university in Oregon has its own Governor-appointed board with governance authority, the universities share many common interests, perspectives and objectives that can be best addressed when the universities speak with one voice. OPU strives to be that voice and to serve as a key resource for policymakers on issues affecting higher education.

OPU seeks to ensure effective sharing of resources, knowledge, best practices and advocacy and avoid unnecessary duplication of efforts. By coordinating initiatives and activities common to the public universities, OPU fosters connections among the institutions as well as other partners in education, research, economic development and public services.

The president of each public university sits on the OPU Council, which provides leadership and decision-making to the coalition, supported by professional staff. The Chair and Vice Chair position on the council rotates every other year.