University of Oregon President Michael Gottfredson led a UO contingent to the Pendleton Round-Up this week, underscoring the university's commitment to serving the higher education needs of Eastern Oregon.

Highlights of the Pendleton trip included Thursday's "Let 'er Duck" breakfast for UO alumni at the famed Hamley Steakhouse Slickfork Saloon and Friday's participation in the Pendleton Round-Up parade. President Gottfredson and his wife, Karol, rode the parade route with others from the UO delegation in a horse-drawn wagon.

The president told UO supporters at Thursday's breakfast that the university is expecting about 50 new freshmen and transfers from Eastern Oregon this fall. In all, more than 300 Eastern Oregon students attended the UO last year and were awarded more than $3 million in financial aid to help them pursue their studies.

"I know most of you here today are alumni, and these students are standing tall on the foundation you built," Gottfredson told breakfast attendees.

- from the UO Office of Strategic Communications