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Commencement Features Yale Philosopher

Spainhour Receives Westmont Medal

Is There Other Life in the Universe?

American Masters In Clay Exhibit Ceramics

College Receives $3 Million Bequest

FBI Foundation Wards Scholarship

Intercultural Leaders Awarded

Datadel Brings Change

Congratulations to the Class of 2004!

Prayer Update

Condolences

New Faces on Campus

Promotions/Changes

RSVP

Summer Housing

Did You Know?

Job Board


Staff
Nancy Phinney,
Marcia Meier,
Leslie Painter

Submit news, articles and/or suggestions for stories to lpainter@westmont.edu by the 20th of the month.

Commencement Features Yale Philosopher
Christian philosopher and Yale Professor Dr. Nicholas Wolterstorff will speak at Westmont's 2004 commencement 10 a.m. May 8 at Carr Field.

Wolterstorff's speech entitled "Called or Occupied?" will explore chooseing between looking for an occupation and looking for what you are called to do.

Wolterstorff received his bachelor's degree from Calvin College and a master's and Ph.D. in philosophy from Harvard University. He is the recipient of three honorary doctorates.

The Noah Porter professor of philosophical theology at Yale University Divinity School, Wolterstorff has served as president of the American Philosphical Association and the Society of Christian Philosophers. After concentrating on metaphysics at the beginning of his areer, he spent many years working primarily on aesthetics and philosophy of art.

In more recent years, he has concentrated on epistemology, philosphy of religion and political philosophy. Wolterstorff teaches courses in philosophy of religion and aesthetics and idrects seminars in epistemology, hermeneutics and philosophy of art.

The author of nine books, Wolterstorff is best known for "Lament for a Son," a reflection written in bref vignettes about the premature death of his 25-year-old son and the experience of grieving. Writing the narrative as a loving father mourning for his son, he acknowledges that every event is an occasion for remembering, for meditiating, for Job-like anguish in the struggle to accept and understand. He wrote the book "in the hope that it will be of help to some of those who find themselves with us in the company of mourners," Wolterstorff said.

Spainhour Receives Westmont Medal
David Spainhour, who retired in April as chairman of Santa Barbara Bank & Trust, will receive the Westmont Medal during graduation ceremoneis.

The Westmont Medal is given each year to recognize those in our community whose lives embody the very principles of the college: integrity, sevice, compassion, responsibility, faithfulness, discipline and generosity.

Spainhour has helped guide Santa Barbara Bank & Trust for 37 years. He joined the bank as a controller in 1966, and has held a number of leadership positions since. He was named president of the bank in 1989 and chairman of the board in 1996. In honor of his retirement, SBB&T set up the David Spainhour Scholarship to go to a Westmont student in financial need.

While Spainhour is well known for his long association with the bank, what stands out is his commitment to the community and the non-profit social service organizations that help those least fortuante among us.

President Stan D. Gaede once said of his: "If there is a better human being around, I haven't met him."

Just as he as devoted himself to building a bank with community interests at heart, Spainhour has devoted his own time to numerous community groups, including the Salvation Army, Rescue Mission, Coalition for the Homeless, United Way, Santa Barbara Partners in Education, Community Arts Music Association, YMCA and Cottage Hospital, among others.

He was the recipient of the Santa Barbara News-Press Lifetime Achievement Award in 2000 and the Distinguished Community Service Award, given by the Anti-Defamation League, in 1999. He served as a trustee of Westmont from 1991 to 2002.

This will mark the ninth year the Westmont Medal has been given. Past recipients are Larry Crandell, Penny Jenkins, Dr. Ramon Vidauri of Ensenada, Mexico, Antia Mackey, Stewart and Katherine Abercrombie, Betty Rosness, Peter MacDougall and Lord Paul and Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree.

Is There Other Life in the Universe?
Westmont Downtown Conversations continue with "Intelligent Life in the Universe - A Scientific Exploration" by Physics Professor Warren Rogers, 5:30 p.m. May 13, at the University Club, 1332 Santa Barbara St.

The talk wil present a scientific overview of the prospects for intelligent life elsewhere in the universe, from the viewpoint of modern physics.

Starting from the early universe following the Big Bang, Rogers will explore necessary conditions for the development and sustenance of intelligent life and consider evidences for thse conditions outside the solar system.

American Masters In Clay Exhibit Ceramics
American Masters in Clay an exploration of the best American ceramicists will be on exhibit in Reynolds Gallery May 13 through June 25. The opening reception is 5-7 p.m. May 14. Local artists will be available to talk with at the reception. Alum Chris Rupp '00 is the curator of the exhibition.

Instructor Deanna Pini will teach a children's (ages 8-12) pottery workshop in two sessions May 15 and 27. To sign-up or for more inforamtion, contact the art department at 565-6162.

College Receives $3 Million Bequest
Westmont has received a $3 million gift from the estate of a former professor and his wife.

Dr. Kenneth Monroe, who died in 1987, and his wife, Peggy, who died in February of this year, left assets of more than $3 million to the college. The money will fund scholarships for Monroe Scholars and also create a new endowed chair in a discipline to be named.

"What an amazing legacy Dr. and Mrs. Monroe have left," President Stan Gaede said. "To be able to provide ongoing support for a distinguished faculty member and some of the very best students - many whom could not afford to come to Westmont, is a great gift, one for which the college is deeply appreciative."

Monroe joined the faculty at Westmont in 1945, the year the college moved to Montecito from Los Angeles. His scholarship was broad, and his teaching reflected the breadth of the liberal arts, with a special interest in Mediterranean history and archeology. He also served as academic dean and, on two occasions, acted as interim president.

Chancellor David K. Winter remembers the Monroes with deep fondness and gratitude for their contributions to Westmont.

"Ken and Peggy Monroe were exceptional people," Winter said. "They were leaders in may local organizations, including the First Presyterian Church, as well as on campus at Westmont. He was a first-rate scholar and professor and was loved and respected by studentsand colleagues as well. They were warm personal friends to Helene and me, and we miss them very much."

When he retired, Monroe received the honorary titles of professor emeritus and trustee emeritus. The college named Monroe Dining room in Kerr Student Center in honor of the couple in 1985. Also in his honor, the Kenneth Monroe Award is given to an outstanding male and female graduate who has demonstrated superior acheivement in the classroom, excellence in leadership and who has been exemplary models to other students.

"What a wonderful gift from a family that has played such a tremenous part in Westmont's history," said Steve Baker, vice president for advancement. "We are deeply grateful for the wise and prudent stewardship of their resources and for their great confidence in Westmont.

FBI Awards Scholarship
The Former Agents of the FBI Foundation awarded Westmont $2,500 to be used for student scholarships, with a preference for students who are stduying an area of lawenforcement.

During a ceremony that included President Stan Gaede, student body president David Cox accepted the award from Charles Sawyer, the regional representative of the organization, and Richard Bernes, Western region vice president of the Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI, Inc. Sawyer's granddaughter, Westmont student Jennifer Falicon, also attended.

Each year the Former Agents of the FBI Foundation awards a total of $20,000 to eight colleges around the country. A member of the Special Agents Association from each of eight national regions is assigned to determine which school in her/her region should be the recipient. Sawyer chose Westmont.

"Scholarships are so important because many of our students would not otherwise be able to come to Westmont, where they receive one of the best liberal arts educations available," said Lori Call, director of foundation and corporate relations. "We're grateful for the FBI Foundation's decision. It will make a difference in our students' lives."

Intercultural Leaders Awarded
Four Westmont students have been chosen as Intercultural Leadership awardees for the 2004-05 academic year. Sarah Akinwale, Stephanie Crockett, Laurraine Gereige, and Daniel Galicia will each receive a $3,700 award funded by a grant from the Irvine Foundation.

Sarah Akinwale, of Los Angeles, is a sophomore studying sociology and communications. She is a student leader for the newly formed Black Student Union, an admissions intern for diversity, participates in the Racial Equality and Justice group, is on Orientation team for fall 2004 and next year will be part of the new Unity Coalition.

Stphanie Crockett is a sophomore from Longmont, Col., who studies communication. She is involved in the Racial Equality and Justice group and will co-lead the group next year. She is a member of the new Unity Coalition.

Laurraine Gereige, a sophomore from Biyada, Lebanon, who studies biology, has been involved with Intercultural Programs and with Nomads, a student club for international students. She is in New Zealand for an off-campus program.

Daniel Elias Galicia, a freshman from El Paso, Texas, has been involved with and will soon lead the Latino Cultural Organization.

Datatel Brings Change
Waves of change are starting to roll throuch campus! Beginning July 1, portions of the college will begin using the new college information system purchased from Datatel.

Three groups richly deserve special recognition:

The Benefactor team, led by Mary Given, includes Libby Aspen, Mary Dombek, Jan Fisk, and Janna Mori.

The Finanials team, led by Paul Larson, includes LeAnne Hagerty, Bunmi Ogunjemiyo, Daniel Painter, Debbie Price, Jim Reid, and Jessie Zhu.

The Core team led by Bill Wright, includes Libby Aspen (IT), Greta Bruneel (HR) Mary Given (OCA), Diane Horvath (Financial Aid), Bob Kuntz (Registrar), Paul Larson (Business Office), Dana Sanders (Student Life), and Jodi Smith (Admissions).

Several other groups will being increasing their work on the Datatel project in coming months. This includes the Admissions team, led by Jodi Smith; the HR/Payroll team, led by Greta Bruneel; and the Student Records and Resitration Team, led by Bob Kuntz.

Benefactor leader Mary Given reports: "It's going great! We have an extremely dedicated IT Department leadeing the effor and have consistent support from the highest levels at the college."

Financials leader Paul Larson adds: "The Business Office interlace with Datatel personnel have been very professional, know their product and are well prepared to maximize our success in the implementation."

If you have any questions about the Datatel project, please contact Chris Call (ccall@westmont.edu, ext. 6023) or Barry Cunningham (bcunning@westmont.edu. ext. 6861).

Congratulations to the Class of 2004!
Congratulations to "our" family members who are graduating this summer:

Sarah Groeneveld, daughter of Procurement Specialist Bill '80 and Jennifer Reitz '81 Groeneveld, graduates with honors from San Marcos High School on June 18. She was also editor-in-chief of SMHS Kings Page and Elks Club Student-of-the-Month in January 2004. She will arrend Westmont in the fall.

Ryan David King, son of Housing Director Dave and Lisa King, will graduate from Westmont with a bachelor's degree in religious studies and a minor in political science.

Sandy Lyon, admissions assistant and int'l student coordinator, has two graduates: Amanda Elise graduates from San Marcos High School in June and Brody William graduates from Westmont with a bachelor's degree in art.

Julie Pointer, daughter of barb, senior administrative assistant to the president, and Rick, professor of history, graduates from Santa Barbara High School on June 15. She will attend Westmont this fall.

Hannah Spencer, daughter of Greg Spencer, professor of communication studies, graduates from Santa Barbara High School in June.

Jesse Thurman, son of Reference & Instruction Librarian Kristyn Thurman, graduates from Westmont with a bachelor's degree in computer science.

Paul Wilson, son of Associate Dean of Students Tim Wilson, graduates from San Marcos high School in June.

Prayer Update
A year ago in March Janna Mori's husband, Andrew, was almost killed in a car accident. He still has some pain and continues to do physical therapy to regain muscle strength. Overall he is doing well. He started work full time at the beginning of the year.

Their son, Nathaniel, who was also in the accident (but fared much better), is graduating from La Colina this year. The Mori family is grateful for your many prayers.

Janna is the director of donor relations for the Office of College Advancement.

Condolences
Marge van Boven, a former staff member, died on April 17. She had been living at The Samarkand for the last few years, having been predeceased by her husband, Harry. Dr. Paul Wilt led the burial service.

New Faces on Campus
Welcome: William Delgado, public safety officer, Chris Maes, public safety officer and Nick Rizzo, data entry support for Admissions.

Promotions/Changes
Barbara Pointer
has trasferred to serve as coordinator of Off-Campus Programs.

Congratulations to Richie Nolan, who has been promoted to assistant director of annual giving.

Given her increasing amount of work on legal matters, Toya Cooper's title has been changed to college counsel. She will continue to spend a portion of her time as special assistant to the provost for diversity initiatives.

RSVP
The Faculty and Staff Appreciation Luncheon will be 11:45 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, May 13 in Murchison Gym. Please RSVP to ext. 7001 by May 7.

Summer Housing
A local Christian family is looking for a summer house-sitting opportunity in Santa Barbara while their house is under construction. Regerences available upon request. Contact Warren or Chris Burleson at 696-6810.

Did You Know?

  • Cliff Lundberg, executive vice president, attended Parca's "Free to be Me Independence Ball" in Palo Alto this March. Cliff and his wife, Diane, joined other parents to raise funds for Parca to serve people with developmental disabilities. there is a great photo of Cliff dancing with his daughter, Brooke, on the Parca Web site. Cliff founded the Parca Auxiliary in 1985 by recruiting some high-powered Hillsborough women, including Roger Voskuyl's daughter, Jane Jackson (http://www.parca.org/2004AnnualDinner.html)
  • Planned Giving Today (Jan. 2004) published an article by Nancy Christel, executive director for endowment growth. Entitled "Heralding the Cause for Endowment," Nancy outlined seven important factors in building a successful endowment program.
  • Paul Wilson, son of Associate Dean of Students Tim Wilson, and Kevin Milner, son of Associate Professor of Kinesiology Chris Milner, are members of the San Marcos High Mock Trial team that placed first in the Santa Barbara County and went on to win the state championship (36 counties) April 4. San Marcos is one of four school teams that will be highlighted in a film documentary being made of this competition.

Job Board
If you refer someone for a job opening at Westmont and he/she is hired, you will receive a gift certificate for dinner for two, or the cash equivalent.

Administrative Assistant, Student Life

Administrative Computing Specialist and Database Administrator (18 month temporary position with possible future extension)

Advamcement services Assistant, College Advancement

Annual Giving Assistant, College Advancement

Biology Lab Coordinator, 40 hrs/wk, 11 mo/yr.

Facility Maintenance Worker I, Physical Plant

Major Gifts Assistant, President's Associates

Major Gifts/Corporate and Foundation Relations Assistant, College Advancement

Math & Computer Science Scretary, 25 hr/wk, 10 mo/yr

Planned Giving Assistant, College Advancement

Project Manager, Physical Plant

Resident Director, Student Life

Senior Associate Major Gifts, College Advancement

Sports Information Director

Student Life Assistant, 20 hrs/wk

For complete information on the current openings, please visit the human resources Web page or refer to the job board in upstairs Kerrwood Hall.