Honoring Duck dads
Each June, we celebrate the fathers and father figures who have touched our lives, investing their time and energy to care for and support us. There are many who have stepped into the role of father—dads, stepdads, single dads, adopted dads, foster dads, grandfathers, uncles, big brothers. This Father’s Day, we honor all father figures for all they do within their families and our Ducks community.
We asked UO students, alumni, and friends to share reflections and gratitude for the fathers and/or father figures in their lives—whether their own dad, grandfather, or the father to their ducklings. Here is what a few Ducks had to say.
Olivia Lukovich, class of 2025, on Duck dad Steve Lukovich, BS ’90 (computer and information science)
“My dad, Steve, went to the University of Oregon and is a die-hard Duck fan. In fact, if I were a boy, my name was going to be Autzen! It was the best day of my dad’s life when I decided that I wanted to go to school here.
This year, I worked on a very large project and brought an American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Walk to the UO. Putting together this event took months of hard work, and my dad was there for me every step of the way. He even helped me get almost all of my sponsors! I know that I couldn’t have made the Out of The Darkness Walk happen if I didn’t inherit my dad’s amazing qualities of drive and dedication. His support is the reason that I kept pushing to make my dream come true.
My dad is my best friend, so I am very grateful that he got to come to Eugene for the walk and also for the acceptance of my 25 Ducks Award. Because of my dad, I was born to be a Duck!”
Marlene Blum on dad to their ducklings, Sandy Weintraub, JD ’10
“Duck Dad, Sandy Weintraub, never misses a Spring Game with his daughter Zoey and son Leo.”
Emma Leland, class of 2025, on Duck dad Michael Leland, BA ’91 (accounting)
“I look up to my dad. He has sacrificed so much for me and has shown me everything I know about life. I feel like I am a more caring, thoughtful individual because of him. I admire the way he always shows up for the people in his life. I know I can count on him no matter what. He taught me how to work hard, how to listen well, and how to chase after my dreams. He’s the reason I am where I am today, and I feel SO lucky to be his daughter!”
Originally shared through the Emerald Media Group and Student Alumni Association's 2024 25 Ducks Award publication.
Tera Matulich on dad to their ducklings Jeff Matulich, BS ’05 (business administration) and Duck grandpa Bruce Matulich
“[Oregon] is where our story began and continues to grow! 💚💛 Jeff transferred to Oregon in 2002 from San Jose State University. I was born and raised in Springfield, Oregon and met Jeff through mutual friends while he was attending the UO. He stole this girl's heart, and while we didn’t stay in Oregon after graduation, we have always traveled up every year for many football games and now enjoy sharing these awesome moments with our little ones. 🥰
Today, we live in El Dorado Hills, California. Jeff and his father, Bruce, work together running a nonprofit organization supporting HVAC contractors—Electric and Gas Industries Association—based out of Sacramento. They are truly an amazing father and son duo!
Happy Father's Day to a wonderful husband, beloved daddy, and amazing papa!”