A letter from Jane Higa, Dean of Students
Dear Westmont Students,
Welcome to the 2011-2012 academic year! As our new buildings are completed, a fresh excitement is in the air and there is a sense that the college is entering a new chapter in our history. What an exciting time to be a student at Westmont! I am confident these years will be remembered as a time when Westmont stepped out in new directions with renewed energy and commitment, enhancing the strong foundation established by so many who have gone before us. You are a part of history in the making.
In Dr. Beebe’s letter to you, he describes Westmont as a place that provides a “world-class education for world-class students.” One of the things that distinguishes a Westmont education is our firm belief that you are not merely receptors of knowledge. In fact, we invite — even expect you — to participate in the task of contributing to the richness and depth of this place by the giving of your talents, gifts and service.
This is no small task. It will require your very best effort. At times, you will need to take risks and learn from those who are very different from you. At other times, you may need to play the challenging role of inspired and effective teacher. Westmont provides you with incredible opportunities and supportive people, but you must bring yourself to the learning process.
This Student Handbook is an excellent guide to help you enter into and contribute to life at Westmont. In addition to the practical help of a day planner with key events at the college, you will also find a place for our chapel schedule and a listing of resources, policies, and guidelines that will help you be successful. Directly following my letter, you will also find the Community Life Statement and the Diversity Matters at Westmont statement. Each is essential for you to take special notice of since they are foundational to our community and describe the high calling and responsibility of being in this community. Both are required reading for anyone who takes seriously the task of being a world-class student at Westmont. As you read these two statements, I invite you to imagine how you will actively contribute to making Westmont a place that truly reflects our commitment to loving as Christ would love.
As we are all faithful to this task, you will have tasted what each of us longs for: a place we can all call home. Can you imagine such a place? I, therefore, invite you to join this grand adventure of living together as faithful scholars who are seeking each day to bring about the best of what God intends for one another and for us as a community.
Imagining with you,
Jane Hideko Higa
Vice-President for Student Life and Dean of Students