History

In 1876, the United States celebrated its centennial, Colorado was admitted as the 38th state, and the University of Oregon opened for classes in September in Eugene, Oregon. Two years later the first class of five graduated from the university. Another year later, those graduates gathered to form the University of Oregon Alumni Association (UOAA). 

They did so because they quickly realized that alumni were essential stakeholders with a vested interest to support and strengthen the UO as it grew as an institution. The fledgling UOAA advocated for its alma mater and was the voice of the alumni community to the UO. 

Like today, early members gathered for social and academic events that continued their commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth. For more than 140 years our community of alumni and friends have made the UO stronger. 

The UOAA now counts more than 20,000 alumni and students as members in its ranks. Our Ducks continue to serve as advocates for the university, leaders in the community, champions for students, and stand with more than 250,000 fellow alumni who proudly express their pride for the UO.