A national study examines the link between religious experiences and depression by following more than 12,000 American adolescents from their teens into middle adulthood. The research indicates that attending religious services staves off depression, but it also ties life-changing spiritual experiences and a belief in divine leading and angelic protection to an increased risk for depression, especially in men.
Westmont pioneers a new certificate program that trains people to use statistical data in studying complex human behavior and addressing global challenges. The Certificate in Social Impact Analytics (SIA) targets college graduates with non-technical backgrounds interested in developing statistical and analytical skills so they can assess the social impacts of programs, interventions and policies.
The Westmont Theater Arts Department has established a new initiative expanding its focus on diversity, justice, global engagement and intercultural competency. Beginning in fall 2021, as part of the Justice and Global Engagement in the Theatre Arts Initiative, John Blondell, award-winning director and Westmont professor of theater arts, will become the new global ambassador in the performing arts.
The Westmont Ridley-Tree Museum of Art highlights works donated to or purchased for to the museum. “Selections from the Permanent Collection of Contemporary Art” will run from January 14-March 27, 2021. The exhibition will be available online at westmont.edu/museum/contemporarycollection.
Westmont has launched a national search for a provost to oversee the college’s educational program. The search committee, chaired by President Gayle D. Beebe, is seeking a chief academic officer who will ensure a vibrant partnership between the college’s curricular and co-curricular programs.
As the second highest-ranking senior administrator at the college, the provost serves as a member of the Westmont Executive Team. The provost, who is also dean of faculty, has the primary responsibility for the academic program.
Westmont has purchased a four-story building in downtown Santa Barbara where it will launch a new nursing program in partnership with Cottage Health. The new nursing program will address the critical shortage of skilled nurses in Santa Barbara and throughout the region.