Blog Posts by Westmont

Three generations will gather for Commencement at 10 a.m. May 4 on Carr Field to celebrate the latest recipient in the family of a Westmont degree.

Kirsten White will receive her bachelor’s degree in English, while her parents, Steve and Sharon Gerlach White (‘76 and ‘78 graduates, respectively), watch with her grandparents, Harlan and Ruth Gerlach. The Gerlachs will be celebrating their Golden Warrior anniversary: They graduated from Westmont in 1952.

As Golden Warriors, the Gerlachs will march in with their granddaughter and the other graduates for the ceremonies.

The Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) has named Westmont as a winner of the 2002 Circle of Excellence in Educational Fund-Raising Award, which honors superior fund-raising programs across the country. The award comes as Westmont’s capital campaign, which raised more than $56 million, is coming to a close.

Ten National Merit Scholars are among Westmont’s incoming class this fall, representing – for the third year in a row – the strongest class academically in college history. First-year students will arrive on campus Aug. 21 for orientation, and classes begin Aug. 26.

The new National Merit Scholars will bring to 30 the number on campus. Additionally, 97 percent of all incoming students qualified for merit scholarships, meaning they were eligible to receive one of three Westmont scholarships based on academic excellence.

Westmont President Stan Gaede has a new book out: “An Incomplete Guide to the Rest of Your Life: On the Road to Meaning, Purpose & Happiness,” published by InterVarsity Press.

With warm stories and conversational style, Gaede addresses topics such as vocation, relationships, integrity and compassion to provide guidance in leading a life worth living and finding authentic happiness. He points his reader beyond temporary diversions to the God who offers true satisfaction and fulfillment.

Twelve students received David K. Winter Character through Servant Leadership Awards during a special ceremony April 18, 2002.

There were more than 80 nominations for the award, which was previously only open to juniors. This year, first-year and sophomore students were also eligible. Faculty, staff and other students nominated candidates who have demonstrated Christ-like character through acts of servant leadership.

The Westmont Jazz Band offers its annual spring concert 8 p.m. April 16 in Deane Chapel on Westmont’s lower campus. Admission is free and the concert is open to the public.

Three six-piece combo groups and a big band will perform songs from such jazz greats as Wayne Shorter, Miles Davis and John Coltrane.