The UW’s annual Faculty Field Tour took place last week, offering new faculty members an immersive five-day bus journey across more than 1,000 miles of Washington state. The tour is designed to help new faculty gain a deeper understanding of the University’s statewide impact, become familiar with the diverse communities and regions UW students call home, and foster connections among faculty in varying disciplines from all three campuses, as well as with leaders throughout the state.
On the first day of the tour, the group stopped in Olympia to visit the state capitol and meet with Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck. Lt. Governor Heck shared insights from his experiences in both state and federal government, provided an overview of Washington’s legislative process, explained the responsibilities of his office, and emphasized the importance of civic health. He also engaged in a Q&A session, giving faculty the opportunity to ask questions and deepen their understanding of state government and the challenges and opportunities facing Washington.
Midway through the tour, they visited the Schoesler family wheat farm, operated by Senator Mark Schoesler and his sister. As a fifth-generation farming team, Schoesler Farm offered a firsthand glimpse at the realities of agriculture in Eastern Washington. Sen. Schoesler discussed his family’s history, advances in farming technology, the crops they grow, and the economics dynamics of farming in the region, including exporting globally. He also demonstrated some of the equipment used on the farm and answered questions from the faculty about this farm and his work as a state senator.
That evening, faculty attended the “Welcome to Washington” event at the UW Spokane Center. There, they connected with incoming UW students from the region, their families, and local alumni. UW campus leaders warmly welcomed the new students and their families, and highlighted the goals of the Faculty Field Tour—emphasizing its role in advancing the University’s aim to serve as the University for Washington, committed to impact and engagement across the entire state.
The following morning, the faculty had breakfast with Spokane community leaders, including Senator Marcus Riccelli. Sen. Riccelli welcomed the group to Spokane and encouraged them to return to further explore and engage with the community. He highlighted the UW partnerships in the region and shared updates on initiatives underway in the Spokane area, as well as his hopes for the future. After, the took the opportunity to chat with members of the group.
Throughout the tour, UW’s newest faculty members engaged with Washington’s vibrant communities and leaders, gaining valuable perspective on the state, the students they serve, and the University’s broad statewide impact. The experience provided a meaningful and memorable welcome to Washington—and to the UW community across the state.
Thank you to the statewide elected officials who participated and helped make the tour so impactful. We appreciate your continued support of the UW.


