Carolyn “Lyn” Hennion, a visionary civic leader of Southern Oregon, was born July 27, 1943, and passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026, at her home in Mt. Shasta, California, at the age of 82.
Hennion built a legacy grounded in the belief that strong communities are built through education. An inaugural member of the Southern Oregon University Board of Trustees, she served from 2015 to 2022, spanning three presidential administrations.
The Board of Trustees of Southern Oregon University is the governing board of SOU, an independent public body. Established by legislation effective July 1, 2015, the board has broad authority to supervise and manage the affairs of the university and may exercise and carry out all of the powers, rights and privileges that are expressly conferred upon the university, or that are implied by law, or are incidental to such powers, rights and duties.
SOU provides career-focused, comprehensive educational experiences to over 5,000 students. Along with an emphasis on student success and intellectual growth, SOU is committed to diversity, inclusion and sustainability. Theoretical and experiential learning programs provide quality, innovative experiences for students. At SOU, students build strong community connections through internships, mentorships, field studies, capstone projects, volunteer opportunities and civic engagement.
Established by legislation effective July 1, 2015, the board has broad authority to supervise and manage the affairs of the university and may exercise and carry out all of the powers, rights, and privileges that are expressly conferred upon the university, or that are implied by law, or are incidental to such powers, rights, and duties.
Southern Oregon University is committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive campus for all students, faculty, and staff. Guided by our Strategic Plan, our ultimate goal is to replace structural and systemic barriers, establish supportive pathways and prepare all learners to feel valued and respected as individuals regardless of background, identity, and position. To learn more about our efforts and campus initiatives, visit the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) website.
SOU Board of Trustees
trustees@sou.edu
1250 Siskiyou Blvd.
Ashland, OR 97520
541.552.8055