The Duck Store has been serving the essential supply needs of University of Oregon students since 1920. As an industry leader with more than a 100-year history on campus, we’re your original college store, and in addition to outfitting the University of Oregon community, we’re the only college store with a non-profit mission to support every UO student.
As a non-profit college store that is independent from the University of Oregon, The Duck Store’s strives to continually act in the best interest of the students, staff and faculty members of the university. To ensure this, we are governed by a Board of Directors that is comprised of those same stakeholders of current UO students, staff and faculty members.
Some of the benefits of joining the Board of Directors include:
- earning a $100 monthly stipend for attending a board meeting or committee meeting that month
- building a practical understanding of how a complex non-profit functions, from an administrative and governance level all the way to a functional and operational one
- cultivating leadership and professional skills in a collaborative and hands-on working environment
- free cap and gown when you graduate
Interested in learning more about our Duck Store Board of Directors? Check out a few of our former Board members experiences on this unique opportunity provided to students and faculty of the University of Oregon:
Rose L.
Board member from 2013-2015
Serving on The Duck Store Board of Directors was an invaluable experience that directly shaped my professional path. As a Planning, Public Policy, and Management student with a focus on Nonprofit Management, I gained practical insights into the governance and operations of a complex nonprofit organization. The strategic decision-making, financial oversight, and collaborative leadership skills I developed during my board tenure proved essential after graduation, where I now apply these lessons daily as Development Director for Kinship House, a Portland-based nonprofit.
Sara P.
Board member from 2010-2013
Hello! My name is Sara and I attended the University of Oregon from 2009-2013. I'm now a pediatric occupational therapist in the Portland area, but reflect fondly on my experience in Eugene. I was really involved as a Duck; I was a FIG Assistant, worked for First-Year Programs, and had a short stint in ASUO. I also served as the President of the Duck Store Board of Directors from 2010-2013. Serving as a student representative on the Duck Store Board of Directors was an invaluable experience. It provided me with firsthand exposure to the operations of one of the only non-profit university bookstores, offering a unique perspective on how a mission-driven organization balances financial sustainability with community service. (How many organizations do you know that offer paid time off for their employees to volunteer with eligible organizations in our community?) This is a small example of the impact that The Duck Store has on the larger UO community. As a non-profit, The Duck Store aims to benefit students, not to profit from them. As a student and as a Board of Directors member, I felt this in their actions and decisions. It speaks volumes to me that the Leadership Team I worked with when I was on the Board are still the Leadership team today.
Throughout my time on the Board, I gained a deeper understanding of organizational finances and decision-making processes while developing my professionalism in a collaborative, real-world setting. It was one of the most formative professional experiences I had as a student. It also gave me countless connections to leaders in higher education. Being part of a board that directly impacts the student community was both rewarding and empowering. I was initially motivated to join by a peer and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute while expanding my skills and knowledge. This experience not only enhanced my nonprofit awareness, but also strengthened my commitment to serving and representing students, which is what I do in my present role. I am proud to have played a role in supporting an organization that prioritizes both education and community impact.
My husband (who was also on the Board!) and I live in Oregon City with our two young daughters. We both still have our Pendleton blankets that were gifted to us when we left the Board and reflect on this experience with such appreciation.
Joey F.
Board member from 2007-2009
Being on The Ducks Store Board of Directors gave me real world experience while being in school. I got to see first hand what I was learning in business classes be applied to actual business decisions. Not only did it give me a chance to be a leader, but learn from great leaders as well. The Duck Store is an extremely well run and respected business in their industry. If you want to learn from the best, don't miss this opportunity while you are in school.
Jeff S.
Board member from 2007-2009
Being on the Duck Store Board of Directors was one of the most incredible and enjoyable experiences I had as a college student! Getting to rub shoulders and collaborate with not only the leadership of the Duck Store but also the other board members was a real privilege.