CWU is one of six state-assisted, four-year institutions of higher education in Washington state. A regional comprehensive university, CWU offers baccalaureate and graduate degrees in over 100 academic programs to 9600 students. Throughout its history the university has distinguished itself through its quality teaching and academic programs, its student-centered orientation, and its commitment to research, outreach, and international experiences for faculty and students. The College of the Sciences is home to twelve departments in natural, social and behavioral sciences and includes one-third of the university faculty and student enrollment. The main CWU campus is located in Ellensburg, a community of 17,000 that enjoys one of the finest living environments of the Pacific Northwest. In the shadow of the Cascade Mountains and minutes from the Wenatchee National Forest, Ellensburg is situated in the Kittitas Valley, an agricultural region 110 miles east of Seattle. Further information about the university is available at www.cwu.edu. For more information about Ellensburg, see www.ellensburg-chamber.com.