Dear Cougs,
Over the past month, I've had the opportunity to spend time with Cougar supporters in Pullman, across Washington, and throughout the West Coast. Whether it was Homecoming weekend on campus, Cougar Nights with the Seahawks and Kraken in Seattle, conference meetings, or conversations with alumni and supporters in their hometowns, every stop has reinforced the same thing: the passion people have for WSU is unlike anything else.
Homecoming was a perfect example. Seeing generations of Cougs return to campus, celebrate our newest Hall of Fame class, honor one of the greatest student-athletes to ever wear the crimson and gray with the dedication of the John Olerud statue, and take in the unveiling of Ben Joyce's remarkable artwork in the Compton Union Building reinforced something I've always believed: Cougar Athletics is about far more than wins and losses. It's about people, traditions, shared experiences, and the bonds that connect Cougs across generations.
Those moments remind us who we are and what we're building toward.
We're seeing that same spirit reflected in competition. Our women's cross-country team recently captured a Pac-12 Championship, while Nelly Jemeli and Solomon Kipchoge earned individual conference titles. Their accomplishments are a tremendous reflection of the excellence and commitment that exists throughout our programs.
Inside Bohler, there is important work happening every day. I've enjoyed spending time with student leaders across campus as we explore ways Athletics can enhance the overall student experience and strengthen connections throughout the university. Our students are the best reminder of what this is all about, and their energy and commitment leave me optimistic about what's ahead.
Much of my focus also remains on positioning Cougar Athletics to thrive in this new era of college sports. Over the past several weeks, that work has included conference meetings, conversations with leaders across the country, discussions with elected officials, and collaboration with partners across our university and state. As one of the institutions helping shape the future of the new Pac-12, Washington State has a seat at the table in conversations that will impact college athletics for years to come, and WSU is actively helping lead those discussions.
As we focus on the future, we also must be honest about where we are today.
The results on the football field this season have not met our expectations. No one is satisfied with where we stand, including President Cantwell, Coach Moore, his staff, our student-athletes, and me. We understand the standard associated with Washington State Football, and we know our supporters expect more. We expect more.
What gives me confidence is that disappointment has not diminished belief. Inside our football building, I see coaches and student-athletes who remain fully committed to the work ahead. Heads are not hanging. There is an overwhelming belief in the vision, belief in the people alongside us, and belief in where this program can go.
There are no shortcuts to building something meaningful. Success is earned through persistence, alignment, investment, and a relentless commitment to improvement. I see those qualities every day.
That is why this moment matters.
It's easy to be all-in when things are going well. What has always made Cougar Nation different is its determination to lean in when challenges arise. That belief was reflected recently through Glenn Osterhout's generous $7.1 million commitment to WSU, including support for Cougar Athletics. His gift serves as another powerful example of the pride and commitment that continue to define this university and its people. To all of you who are engaged, support our student-athletes, and proudly represent WSU wherever you are, thank you. Cougar Athletics is stronger because of you.
I have never been more confident in our people, the direction we are headed, and the opportunities ahead. Thank you for your belief in our student-athletes and for all you do to support Washington State.
Go Cougs!
Jon Haarlow
Vice President & Director of Athletics
Washington State University
Email: athletics.director@wsu.edu
X: Jon_Haarlow