Message From the Alumni Council

Greetings!

Have you ever truly considered the words on your Westminster diploma? It states that having earned your degree entitles you to rights, honors and privileges associated with this accomplishment. But unique to Westminster, the wording also states that degrees are conferred with responsibilities. I love this because it speaks to our need to live ethical, productive lives that reflect our intellectual curiosity, our spirituality, and our commitment to service. I’ve seen this play out with many of you who are shining examples of “human beings at their best.”

The Westminster alumni community represents almost 23,000 men and women spread across the United States and 18 foreign countries. Many have ventured far from New Wilmington. It is my hope that you have maintained connections with fellow graduates over the years. It is these connections that represent one of the greatest gifts of our Westminster education. I also hope that you will continue to stay connected with the College, and there are many ways to do so including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. If you haven’t done so recently, visit the College website and click on the Alumni Tab. The Calendar of Events will give you insight into the many programs and gatherings that may be of interest to you, some of which are now virtual. In addition, explore the recently added National Groups and Representatives option. You can see the number of alumni living in your state and in key cities within your state. Should you wish to make a personal contact locally, a list of regional representatives is provided along with their email addresses. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them regarding local programming and ways to connect with other alumni living in your area. Finally, explore the link to Virtual Alumni Groups and Pages. You may be surprised to see the number of third-party websites that connect alumni based on areas of interest, clubs or Greek affiliations.

If you haven’t been back to campus for some time, I think you are in for a big surprise. The addition to the Hoyt Science Center and the completion of new playing fields along the Titan Corridor are impressive. They follow significant renovations to several residence halls in recent years. These investments are crucial in attracting quality students to the College. As we enter a decade when the number of college aged students is decreasing, recruitment and retention are at the forefront of the College’s strategy. You can play a part by identifying and recommending students. Click on the Build a Titan Nation option under the Alumni Tab to recommend a student and understand the significant scholarship dollars available through the Jerb Miller and Young Presbyterian Scholarships. Also, don’t forget to make your financial gift to the College and to donate your time as a volunteer.

This fall we have enjoyed the benefit of being back on campus for Homecoming after a one-year absence. Alumni were eager for community as demonstrated by their attendance at scheduled events and reunions. Next year the College will celebrate its 170th anniversary. Stay tuned for information regarding this milestone achievement and how we’ll plan to celebrate it on January 21!

Bill Eavenson ’73 Alumni Council President