PRESIDENT
Gayle D. Beebe
Gayle D. Beebe became Westmont’s eighth president in 2007 after serving as president of Spring Arbor University in Michigan for seven years. His inauguration in 2008 featured speeches by Steve Forbes, chief executive officer of Forbes, and Steve Sample, former president of the University of Southern California.
Summer 2026
President's Briefing
Out Now!
At the conclusion of another remarkable academic year, I’m profoundly grateful for the ways God continues to guide, sustain and expand the mission of Westmont College.
Westmont College Presents The Reflective Executive
Tune into this new podcast series with President Gayle D. Beebe.
COMING SOON!
President Beebe's Latest Book
The Crucibles That Shape Us
Navigating the defining challenges of leadership.
'The Crucibles that Shape Us': Why I Wrote Crucibles?
Westmont College President Gayle D. Beebe explains why he wrote the book, "The Crucibles That Shape Us: Navigating the Defining Challenges of Leadership."
President Beebe is featured in the Higher Education Digest's Most Visionary Education Leaders 2023.
A Presidential Journey in Pursuit of Excellence
In the realm of higher education, Gayle D. Beebe’s legacy at Westmont College inspires respect. With a career spanning over three decades, Beebe has emerged as a true leader in higher education. Currently at the helm of Westmont College in picturesque Santa Barbara, California, since 2007, Beebe's journey to this prestigious position is marked by a rich tapestry of experiences and achievements. Read the full feature here.
Media and Press
Discover the latest features and media coverage highlighting President Gayle D. Beebe's impactful leadership and contributions to Westmont College.
Other Publications
An active scholar, Beebe has published numerous articles and edited several publications, including: “The Shaping of an Effective Leader: Eight Formative Principles of Leadership” (InterVarsity Press, 2011). He co-authored “Longing for God: Seven Paths of Christian Devotion” with Richard Foster (InterVarsity Press, 2009), and he spent five years working with Foster, Dallas Willard, Lynda Graybeal and Thomas Oden to produce the acclaimed Life with God Bible (Harper, 2005).
President's Briefing
What a joy to welcome the spring semester. We give thanks for many things while acknowledging strong headwinds that continue to challenge us. In this new year, we're preparing for a full schedule of activities, events, and classes.