Westwind, Fall 2014

EBOLA IN LIBERIA 2004 GRAD IN THE HOT ZONE P. 10 ANNUAL REPORT MANY THANKS TO OUR SUPPORTERS P. 18

THE JOURNAL OF WALLA WALLA UNIVERSITY FALL 2014

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First-generation college students are meeting head on the unique challenges of college life ... and thriving P.14

Walla Walla University

Alumni Homecoming Weekend April 23-26, 2015

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oin us in honoring the deans, staff, and RAs of Conard, Sittner, Meske and Foreman Halls—those who helped make a “home away from home” for our students through the years. Special recognition will be given at the Alumni Banquet, April 23, at 6 pm.

We are also celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Engineering Egg Drop. Enter your engineering marvel at the Special Edition Egg Drop, April 24.

FEATURE // OUTBREAK EBOLA

“Most patients lie to us about their symptoms.” p.10 Gill Seton ’04 Surgeon, Monrovia, Liberia

4 5 College Avenue The latest from across campus

10 Outbreak Surgeon Gill Seton ’04 cares for the President From A Place to Thrive

THE JOURNAL OF WALLA WALLA UNIVERSITY // FALL 2014

ILLUSTRATION: CLAY RODERY; PHOTO: CHRIS DRAKE

patients in Monrovia, Liberia

A new adventure

A fond farewell and many thanks to Rosa Jimenez, former Westwind editor and WWU employee for 28 years, who began a new adventure in July as the City of Walla Walla communications manager. You’ll be missed, Rosa.

Westwind Fall 2014, Volume 33, Number 3 / Westwind is published three times a year for alumni and friends of Walla Walla University, a Seventh-day Adventist institution. It is produced by Marketing and Enrollment Services/ University Relations. This issue was printed in October 2014. Third-class postage is paid at College Place, Wash. © 2014 by Walla Walla University. Westwind/University Relations, 204 S. College Ave., College Place, WA 99324.

Telephone (509) 527-2363 Toll-free (800) 541-8900 E-mail westwind@wallawalla.edu Online westwind.wallawalla.edu

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2013–14 Annual Report

First-generation college students share their stories Alumni and friends support WWU in innumerable ways

Currents

28 Alumni 28 AlumNotes, 30 In Memory

FROM THE PRESIDENT

A Place to Thrive

First-generation college students can make their dreams a reality

Deborah Silva, professor of communications, can’t help but marvel at her own college journey.

With no family college history to draw from and without knowing what to expect, she entered Walla Walla University as a 34-year-old freshman who was also a mother of three children. “I felt a high degree of responsibility, and an obligation to do well for my family, especially for my children who sacrificed so much,” she recalls.

She still remembers the day she realized just how much knowledge and potential was available to her as a college student. “I would never be the same,” she says. “A paradigm shift took place in the ways I interacted with people and the world around me and, most importantly, how I saw myself.”

As you flip through the pages of this Westwind issue, pause a moment to applaud the courage of our “first-generation” students and their reminder that education is a priceless investment in the future.

We are also blessed by faculty and staff like Deborah who belong to this brave “first-generation” club and who draw on their own personal experiences to encourage our students toward success.

Take Dallas Weis, for example. His parents always prompted him to go to college and even moved their family to College Place to bring him closer to that dream. After earning three degrees from WWU, Dallas has in turn promoted Adventist education to students for 40 years as a teacher, principal, and now as admissions director.

“I feel responsible not to waste the opportunity I had been given that my parents would have loved to have had,” he says.

And consider David Cowles, professor of biology, whose college dreams were rooted in science discussions with his father, who had only an eighth-grade education. “I began to dream of greater things, like finding a career where I could pursue my curiosity.”

David recalls making regular trips to see Dr. J. Randall Sloop, then the head of Student Finance. “He was always kind and supportive of my struggle; I’m sure he worked hard to keep me in school even during times when my bill was mounting.” It was this support that kept David in pursuit of his degree, and he frequently provides that same kindness and encouragement to his advisees.

Breanna Bork says that as a child she decided someday she’d have all the hot lunches, milk, and air conditioning she wanted.

Finances were tight, she recalls, and college seemed like the path toward those luxuries enjoyed by other kids. Breanna was on her

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own to figure out how to apply, pay for college, manage academics, and find a job. And now, in her role as associate director of development at WWU, she helps to raise much-needed tuition funds for students like her. “I have a special heart for financial aid,” she says. “For those who truly want to attend and are willing to work hard to make that dream come true, I want to be there to support their finances to make it happen.”

We don’t always know what’s in store for our students, but we believe that paving the way for them to learn, grow, and succeed is a sacred calling.

“If someone told me 25 years ago that I would be a professor teaching here, I would have thought that a most outrageous statement and hardly worth a thought. Little did I know what God had planned,” Deborah says. “I have the unique view of the fears and insecurities of students, both young and old, and of the potential they may not yet recognize. I feel a deep debt to Walla Walla University for how it changed my life and how it can and has changed others.”

Cordially, John McVay President

College Avenue The latest from across campus

Atoms, Nanometers, and Microscopes Physics Professor Explores Glimpse Into Atomic World

PHOTO: CHRIS DRAKE

D

ID YOU HEAR about the physics professor who walked into Home Depot one day? He noticed the PVC pipes and suddenly had an idea: “I could use these to see atoms!”

Since that fateful day in Home Depot, Tom Ekkens, chair of the Department of Physics, has used a handful of everyday materials—including PVC pipe—to build an instrument that examines particles as tiny as seven nanometers. A device with this ability is commercially available for thousands of dollars, but Ekkens has found a way to build his scanning tunneling microscope, which achieves similar results, for under $100.

Biological (or optical) microscopes are often used to examine molecular samples. These instruments use small bits of light called photons to view the sample and are ideal for viewing details that are larger than one micrometer—the size of a red blood cell.

A scanning tunneling microscope, on the other hand, uses electrons to view samples that are one micrometer or smaller—revealing details at the nanometer and atomic levels.

The scanning tunneling microscope that Ekkens built is comprised of several pieces of PVC pipe, a small motor, a guitar amplifier pickup, hot glue, wires, a battery pack, and a metal tip. Once a current is applied through the microscope, the metal tip sends electrons to the sample and the microscope measures the number of electrons between the tip and the sample.

Other parts include a motor controller, a circuit board, computer cables, and a data acquisition card. Also integral to the use of the homemade microscope is a computer program, written by Ekkens, that analyzes the data and converts the data into images.

The Department of Physics has two commercial scanning tunneling microscopes, which are regularly used in physics labs. Ekkens wants his students to learn the science behind the industry-standard devices by creating simplified versions of the microscopes.

“It is my goal in Intro to Nanotechnology to help my students realize that they can build something that does extraordinary things out of common parts,” says Ekkens.

Westwind Fall 2014

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College Avenue The latest from across campus

In the Footsteps of Jesus Hebrew Comes Alive for Students Studying in Jerusalem

W

Put Me in, Coach!

Athletics Program to Amp Up Schedule and Program Offerings

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THE WWU ATHLETICS program recently announced that for the 2015–16 school year they will join the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC)— currently a 10-school regional league of college athletic programs that is part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), Divison II. For the current 2014–15 school year the Wolves will remain an NAIA Division II independent school with-

sites where Jesus was,” says Natalie Dorland, junior nursing and theology major. “Experiencing Galilee and seeing where Jesus spent most of His ministry meant a lot to me and greatly affected my walk with God,” she says.

John Wilson, senior theology major, also found Galilee inspiring. “I very much enjoyed getting to see the spots that Jesus Himself was at and imagining what it would be like to sit on a grassy knoll and listen to Jesus preach the Sermon on the Mount.”

“The people in Jerusalem showed beautiful hospitality and friendliness unlike anything I’d ever seen—not deliberately, but naturally,” says Stephan.

“I was particularly inspired by the devotion that both cultures [ Jewish and Muslim] have for their religion,” says Wilson. “Despite the tension in the region, we found a rich culture, insights into the Bible, a beautiful language, new friends, and cultures that need Jesus.”

out conference affiliation.

This alignment has made it difficult to schedule games with teams similar to WWU in terms of proximity, athletic ability, and academic focus.

Among other benefits, the new CCC affiliation will allow for a more stable budgetary picture from year to year, will provide recruiting advantages that come with being part of a more visible conference, and will allow students to

have access to CCC conference awards such as all-conference academic awards.

For 2015–16, one CCC school will move to NCAA Division II, and the league will expand to 11 schools with the addition of Walla Walla University and Multnomah University.

The expanded league will include six teams from private Christian colleges and universities throughout the Northwest.

In addition to ongoing excellence in athletic performance, Larson is committed to developing

TOP: The Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem.

INSET: The group of 19 young people studying biblical Hebrew in Jerusalem this summer included students from six different Adventist colleges and universities, including six from WWU.

a character-education component as part of the ongoing growth of the program. “We’ve spent a lot of time already this year talking with our student athletes about being people of service in our community and about being a program of distinction,” says Larson.

The program this year will include women’s volleyball, men’s soccer, women’s basketball, men’s basketball, and women’s softball. As part of the new affiliation, Larson is considering adding men’s golf as a sixth sport.

To see a list of scheduled games for the 2014–15 school year, visit athletics.wallawalla.edu/schedule.

PHOTOS: NATALIE DORLAND, CHAZ SPELLMAN, CHRIS DRAKE, CALEB RISTON

HEN WE SHOWED up in Jerusalem, trouble was brewing under the surface,” says Jordan Stephan, junior theology major. “But it wasn’t something we noticed until we looked back in retrospect.”

Stephan was one of six Walla Walla University students who spent six weeks this summer studying biblical Hebrew in Jerusalem.

“At first it was just ‘unrest,’” he says, “then things grew more tense in the last two weeks of our stay.

Sirens would sound for missiles approaching the city (all shot down before impact). Soldiers, who at the beginning of the trip were seen here and there in pairs, were now stationed on nearly every block, sometimes in large groups. But, as media thrives on the sensational, it was tough to really reassure our families that we were, in fact, safe. By the grace of God, we were safe.”

Stephan says he could have studied Hebrew in a classroom in Walla Walla, but being in Jerusalem helped him “soak in the language.” “I didn’t just have my Hebrew Bible in hand, but I had the ambience of the stories within surrounding me,” he says.

“It was absolutely incredible to be able to take a short walk out our gate and explore the Kidron Valley, the Mount of Olives, Old Jerusalem, and all the famous

Rosario 60th Anniversary Celebration

ASWWU representatives meet with orphanage leaders to plan the next steps.

Construction of Three New Cabins is Underway at the Marine Laboratory MORE THAN 160 guests spent the weekend catching up with longtime friends and colleagues during the Rosario Beach Marine Laboratory 60th anniversary celebration Aug. 22 and 23.

It was in 1954 that Ernest S. Booth, then chair of the Department of Biological Sciences at Walla Walla College, discovered the site for a permanent biology field station. Since 1947 Booth had been holding classes for 50 to 200 students each year in a rented fish cannery with limited space and facilities located three miles from Anacortes. To get the ball rolling on the purchase of the land for the new WWC field station, Booth emptied his personal savings account of $15,000 (in 1954!). (To read the rest of that story, visit rosario.wallawalla.edu/ history.)

Since 1954 Rosario has seen many changes, including construction of three new cabins in 2013–14. Each of the three cabins was funded by generous donations from Richard and Carmen Graham, Jack and Joan Hilde, and The Class of 1962 as a 50th year reunion gift.

Next year, three additional cabins are scheduled to be built,

TRAVEL

Roasting marshmallows and fireside worship overlooking Puget Sound are a Rosario tradition that visitors always relish.

one funded by Ruth Christensen in memory of Ernest and Dorothy Booth, a second cabin funded by the Lindgren Foundation, and a third cabin funded by The Friends of Don and Donnie Rigby. Fundraising began last year on the Rigby cabin, with plans to surprise them with the news at this year’s 60th anniversary celebration.

Event attendees spent Sabbath afternoon sharing memories and stories from their time at Rosario, and touring campus laboratories and buildings. Among the attendees were former faculty and staff Dale Clayton, Leal Dickson, Dale Lent, Larry McCloskey, Don and Donnie Rigby, Ruth Roberts, and Cliff Sorensen.

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See photos of the Rosario anniversary weekend at flickr.com/wallawallauniversity.

Ukrainian Choirs Welcome Scott Three days after Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 was shot down over Ukraine in July, Kraig Scott, professor of music, boarded a plane for Kiev. Scott presented two seminars and four workshops at the International Congress for Adventist Choir Conductors and Music Leaders at the Ukrainian Adventist Center of Higher Education in Bucha, Kiev Region, Ukraine.

As part of the congress, Scott also performed a piano solo and conducted one small and one large choir for two performances.

“Exciting things are happening in choral performance and study in the Baltic region,” says Scott. “I was impressed with the interest, enthusiasm, and musical ability of the participants.

During our trip, we always felt safe, and the people were so gracious and kind.

Their courage in the face of trying times was an inspiration.”

To Build a Home

ASWWU Raises Money to Build an Improved Home for Orphans in Uganda

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O BUILD A HOME for orphans in Uganda is the monumental task embarked on by the Associated Students of WWU (ASWWU).

However, when you talk to Trei Decker, junior mechanical engineering major, the task doesn’t really seem all that monumental.

“God has given me gifts, and I intend to use them to serve others,” says Decker matter-of-factly. After extensive research to find the right project, ASWWU learned of an orphanage in Kasese, Uganda, named Christalis, that is in need of a larger facility. The orphanage currently houses 26 children in living quarters made for a much smaller number. The girls sleep in the kitchen and house, and the boys sleep outside.

To date ASWWU has raised $50,000 toward their goal of $100,000. Christalis has a network in place that has pledged to match up to $100,000. The orphanage already owns 2.8 acres that can be used as the building site for the new structure, which will provide space for 30 to 40 orphans.

In September, an ASWWU group visited the current orphanage, met with architects and orphanage leaders, and began laying the groundwork needed to move the project forward.

“Service is a big part of Walla Walla University and our campus environment,” says Decker of what prompted the dream to build an orphanage. “We wanted to do something long term that we could invest in for multiple years rather than doing a different project each year. Our first phase will be to build the primary home. After that things like furnishings and additional building support will be addressed.”

“Prayers and money are needed,” says Decker, “but the most important thing alumni can help with is networking. They might have connections we can’t imagine that might be interested in partnering with us to continue developing this project.”

To learn more about the project, visit tobuildahomeuganda.blogspot.com or www.facebook.com/wwutobuildahome

Westwind Fall 2014

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College Avenue The latest from across campus

books sites Reading and Browsing Recommendations from our Experts

BY THE NUMBERS

New artwork by Martha Mason, professor emeritus of art, is currently on display in the University Church sanctuary. The piece will be on rotation with other artwork that is familiar to church members and regular visitors that focuses on themes of the Sabbath, heaven, peace, and the resurrection of Christ. “Jesus often invited, healed, listened, taught, and inspired people about God and His kingdom at breakfast, lunch, and dinner,” says Alex Bryan, University Church senior pastor. The new piece “draws from the rich account of Christ’s table fellowship in the Gospels, a vision of the future reunion banquet in heaven, and the rich experience of fellowship on our campus where holy conversations take place.”

New Faculty

Walla Walla University welcomed five new faculty members for the 2014–15 school year: Johanna Attoh, assistant professor of economics and finance; Ross Magi, assistant professor of mathematics; Benjamin Van Dyke,

visiting assistant professor of mathematics; Kari Firestone, associate professor of nursing (College Place campus); and Laurelle C. Warner, associate professor of social work and master of social work coordinator (Missoula, Mont., campus).

Average number of online viewers who watch the Walla Walla University Church service each Sabbath. Viewers range from Seattle to Southern California, from the Bay Area to east of the Mississippi, and many international locations.

Watch live or archived services at wwuchurch.org.

get more WWU news.

Scan me with your favorite app (like red laser)!

Westwind Fall 2014

Emotional Intelligence 2.0 shares research conducted on more than 1 million people, which has found that 90 percent of top performers score high on measurements of emotional intelligence. Among other strengths, these individuals are skilled at managing their emotions even in times of high stress.

—Ken Vyhmeister, associate vice president for financial administration

A Pioneer’s Search for an Ideal Home

By Phoebe Goodell Judson (University of Nebraska Press, 2010. Reprinted from the original 1925 edition.)

In 1853, a 21-year-old bride named Phoebe Judson crossed the plains and mountains headed west with her husband and settled in the Puget Sound area of the Oregon Territory. She was 95 years old in 1925 when her memoirs were first published.

Phoebe’s story is considered a classic in the pioneer genre. It is a beautiful literary account of her journey of hardship and toil that started in Vermilion, Ohio, and took her to her final destination of Lynden, Washington, the town she founded. Her strong Christian spirit sustained her through the rough voyage west and the loss of multiple family members. The story also includes a rare transforming white female perspective toward the “Indians.”

—Jean-Paul Grimaud, associate professor of languages

barna.org From your mobile device,

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By Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves (TalentSmart, 2009)

What do Christians think about legalizing marijuana? What percent of Americans view the Bible as sacred? If you are interested in the intersection of faith and American culture and the answers to these sorts of questions, Barna.org is the place to go. For nearly three decades, George Barna has tried to serve the Christian church by conducting polls that explore North American religious beliefs and practices. His site is filled with current survey results. Of particular interest to me is his focus on the perspectives of young people ages 18 to 29. The site also allows you to sign up for a free, bi-weekly e-mail update, which highlights Barna’s latest research findings.

—Paul Dybdahl, professor of mission and New Testament

PHOTOS: ARELLA AUNG; HENNING GULDHAMMER

At His Table

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Emotional Intelligence 2.0

20s THE

From the archives / If memory serves

One Long Table

Long tables and hungry students have a rich history at Walla Walla University as seen in this photo circa 1920. Last month, the University Church hosted the sixth annual Longest Table celebration, welcoming students back to campus with warm fellowship and delicious homemade food at a table spanning more than 1,200 feet from College Avenue to the gymnasium.

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See photos of The Longest Table at flickr.com/wallawallauniversity.

Westwind Summer 2013

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WHEN EBOLA BEGAN SHUTTING DOWN HOSPITALS AND CLINICS IN LIBERIA, GILLIAN SETON ’04 WAS THERE TO TREAT THE HUNDREDS WHO HAD NOWHERE LEFT TO TURN.

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BY AMY WILKINSON ILLUSTRATION BY CLAY RODERY

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Westwind Fall 2013

GIVE ONLINE WALLAWALLA.EDU/GIVE

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Westwind Fall 2013

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Gillian Seton, 33, arrived in Liberia’s Monrovia in February to take her fi general surgeon at the 25-bed SDA In March, the West African nation its first two cases of Ebola.

THE RIGHT PLACE

BELOW (from left to right): The Seventh-day Adventist Cooper Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia; 2004 WWU graduate, Gill Seton; SDA Cooper Hospital staff.

As the Ebola virus spread in the days and weeks following Seton’s arrival, a growing number of hospitals and clinics began shutting down over concerns that medical workers would contract the disease. (More than 80 such workers in Liberia have already died from the virus.) Cooper Hospital was not prepared to treat Ebola and wouldn’t treat Ebola, but its doors would remain open to care for patients with other needs—often critical needs that could not be met by a dwindling number of facilities and staffers.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Seton’s responsibilities at Cooper extend far beyond her general surgery specialty, as she routinely delivers babies and treats ailments ranging from stroke and hypertension to typhoid and malaria. Those last two can prove particularly tricky, given that they share many of the same symptoms as Ebola. “It’s difficult to separate those at risk due to previous exposure from those who just have one of the ‘normal’ diseases,” Seton explains. Screening procedures are in place, but they’re not a fail-safe. It can take up to 21 days for symptoms of Ebola, which is spread through contact with bodily fluids, to manifest.

“That’s the reason this is such a dangerous time,” Seton says. “We can only trust our guts if something seems wrong. Most patients lie to us about their symptoms. They are looking for anyone to help them, even if they sort of understand that there isn’t any treatment

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Now, six months later, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports nearly 3,000 deaths in the region from Ebola—with many more likely unaccounted for. If infection rates remain consistent, the CDC estimates that more than 1 million people could become infected by January 2015.

To any outsider, it would appear Seton’s arrival in Liberia couldn’t have been more ill-timed. But the 2004 humanities graduate doesn’t see it that way.

“I felt like God was urging/pushing me in this direction and it has been the perfect fit for me,” Seton writes via email. “Our administrator is amazing, very supportive, the staff were welcoming and have made me feel at home, and now with all the recent events, it seems I was really supposed to be here.”

Seton, who graduated from the Loma Linda University School of Medicine in 2008 and completed her residency at the University of Utah in June 2013, decided long ago that she would pursue work in a developing country, but West Africa wasn’t at the top of her list.

“It’s hot, humid, and flat,” she says. “But, after trying in vain to get information about the various hospitals in Africa and around the world, only Dr. Hart (president of Loma Linda University Medical Center, as well as Adventist Health International) was able to give me some information. He strongly urged me to consider Liberia. Then everyone I talked to had some connection to Liberia: a college friend’s wife had a friend here volunteering as a nurse, one of my bosses in Utah has a brother here, and a friend of my mother’s knew someone here. And so I really had to acknowledge that this might actually be the right place.”

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GIVE ONLINE WALLAWALLA.EDU/GIVE

capital city of rst post as a Cooper Hospital. confirmed

CDC/ FREDERICK A. MURPHY

and they are putting us at risk.” Conversely, thanks to misinformation, deep-seated superstitions, and a lack of understanding about how the disease spreads, some Liberians remain tragically naive as to the source of their symptoms. “Whole families are wiped out because they would rather believe that a poison or a curse is responsible for all the deaths instead of Ebola.”

And, even in death, victims can be a danger to their loved ones and the community.

“Despite promises from the Ministry of Health, suspicious bodies [those who died without known cause, especially after contact with Ebola] are not picked up and appropriately buried,” Seton explains.

“Bodies in the community wait for days before pickup, and there aren’t enough vehicles and teams for appropriate burial. Considering the risk of exposure from retained body fluids, this is also a significant factor to the rapid and never-ending spread of the virus.”

Cremation is now considered the standard operating procedure, but there aren’t enough facilities to handle the demand. In fact, the rapid mortality rate is making even burial a difficult task.

So, with mounting concerns over the staff’s well-being, the hospital faced a decision at the behest of the General Conference and AHI in late July: namely, whether to stay open to continue treating non-Ebola patients. Many factors went into the decision, according to Seton:

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HOW YOU CAN HELP

58

PERCENT Percent of deaths from Ebola in Liberia out of the total number of deaths in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone combined.

1.4

MILLION Projected cases of Ebola in Liberia and Sierra Leone

by January 2015 without further intervention.

2x CASES

Cases in Liberia are currently doubling every 15 to 20 days.

“As shipping is so unreliable right now [poor under the best of circumstances], only the big organizations have been able to get anything to us,” Seton explains. She recommends cash donations to Adventist Health International (ahiglobal.org) or Adventist Development and Relief Agency (adra. org), as well as other organizations like Doctors Without Borders, Serving in Mission, Samaritan’s Purse, Global Communities, World Health Organization, and the CDC. And, of course, prayers are always welcome. “We have seen the reality of what people have already done for us by praying.”

“We are the only hospital in Monrovia with full services available, aside from the regular hospital at ELWA [the interdenominational Christian organization Eternal Love Winning Africa]. MSF [Doctors without Borders] has built larger Ebola treatment structures on ELWA land, along with the original center that the hospital still runs themselves. Although they do have services, the original hospital is very small and they are busy enough. And many patients don’t want to be so near Ebola.

This is why the staff wants to stay open: Who will treat them or their family members if they get sick? And they also see the need and the opportunity for us to make a lasting impression on the community by providing medical care.”

On Aug. 1 the staff voted unanimously to keep the hospital open.

THE FUTURE

Cooper Hospital has overcome many obstacles in the days and weeks following that pivotal decision (including nearly running out of fuel and facing the possibility of operating with flashlights as their only source of illumination), but none may prove as challenging as what they face now. After many close calls, a Cooper aide contracted Ebola (most likely from caring for a sick family member at home) and died in late September. The incident sent many of the hospital’s other aides, nurses, and midwives into a panic—and hunkered down at home.

“Without the majority of the health-care team, we cannot carry on. I tried for a day or two, but it was impossible,” Seton says. “So we are taking a semi-voluntary closure of three weeks, to allow for everyone to go through their own self-imposed quarantine and for everyone else [especially me] to get a break. It has been very hard to turn people away, but it has also been a blessing in allowing us to take a breath. We are also getting the chance to refocus and have some time to prepare to reopen in the middle of October.”

With a few weeks to rest and reflect, Seton could finally take an unhurried moment to ponder her own fate. After all, what will become of her if she were to fall ill? But Seton doesn’t see the point in dwelling.

“Funny as it sounds, I’m not worried,” she says. “Maybe it’s naive, or fatalistic, or whatever, but if it’s my time, so be it. I don’t have any guarantee or conviction from God that I won’t get sick. But I also know that if He still has plans for me, He’ll get me through it. So, I’ve thought about what to do if I do start to have symptoms, but I just can’t be bothered to worry about it. [I’m] too tired anyway.”

As this issue goes to press, the story of Ebola continues to evolve. Seton returned to the United States during the hospital closure with plans to return to Liberia in January.

Westwind Fall 2013

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Manuel Rodriguez Senior, chemistry major, pre-med

Carlee Walker Junior, chemistry & mathematics major

Guillermo Francia Junior, theology major

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Serena Dickerson Senior, international communications major

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READ MORE ONLINE: WESTWIND.WALLAWALLA.EDU

Alexander Yanez Senior, civil engineering major

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Pupil Belinda Martinez Junior, social work major

THE TRIALS AND TRIUMPHS OF FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS

BY AMY WILKINSON PHOTOGRAPHS BY BRANDON HILL Westwind Fall 2014

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I’ll tell you, it’s gonna sound crazy,” warns junior theology major Guillermo Francia. “When I came to Walla Walla, I came here with faith. I didn’t have the money to do it. I didn’t have a place to stay or food for that matter. My girlfriend and I both felt called to be here. We knew we’d just show up, and God would open the door.” Open the door (and window, and skylight) God did. A year after their trepidatious arrival on the Walla Walla University campus, Francia and his girlfriend, junior social work major Belinda Martinez, are thriving, studying for careers as a pastor and a marriage counselor.

But it hasn’t been easy.

Francia and Martinez are among the roughly 15 percent of WWU students considered first-generation—those whose parents never enrolled in postsecondary education. Nationwide, about 30 percent of entering freshman classes are composed of first-generation students. (The percentage skews slightly higher at public versus private institutions.)

And while these students share many of the same concerns as their peers—finals, the freshman 15, falling in love—they also carry a unique set of burdens. After all, at just 18 years of age, what must it be like to do something your own parents have never done?

PAVING THEIR OWN PATH

For many of the first-generation college students featured here, a post-secondary education had been a goal as early as elementary school—and considered a prerequisite for future success. “It was something I always had in mind,” says Carlee Walker, a junior chemistry and mathematics major. “I didn’t really see any other option except maybe military.”

Serena Dickerson, a senior international communications major, agrees. “I’ve been hearing a lot lately, people saying that college just makes you employable now. It’s kind of like you have to have a college degree to get anywhere in life.”

While Dickerson’s parents were always encouraging, it was often left to her to figure out the logistics of just how to apply to college.

“They helped a lot with what they could,” she says, “[but] there’s some stuff that you don’t completely understand if you haven’t been to college yourself. I had to look up how to write entrance essays, and there’s the whole financial aspect, trying to figure out what’s the best option to do. It’s kind of a struggle taking out loans.”

Where Mom and Dad’s knowledge ends, there often begins the search for a mentor. Martinez—whose parents aren’t fluent in English— connected with a high-school staffer who guided her through much of the application process, beginning in her junior year.

“She helped me try to apply for financial aid, she told me more about colleges—what colleges I can go to and what I have to do to get there,” Martinez says.

Senior civil engineering major Alex Yanez also relied on a guidance counselor to set him on the track toward higher education.

INVESTING IN THEIR FUTURE

Of course, applying is just the first step in the long march toward a college diploma. Once that highly coveted acceptance letter arrives in the mail, the focus then becomes: How am I ever going to pay for this?

Which brings us back to Francia’s story. After dropping out of high school in 2008 to care for his ailing mother, he finally earned his GED in 2011 and graduated from community college in 2013. But he knew he needed a four-year degree if he was to fulfill his calling as a pastor—and he knew he needed to earn that degree from Walla Walla University.

The problem: He had very little money. And when he started applying

16

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for financial aid, he ran into yet another problem. Because his parents fled from El Salvador and didn’t have a credit history, they were unable to co-sign for any of the private loans he qualified for. In fact, no one in his family was able to co-sign. So Francia turned to God. His church, Beaverton Spanish Seventh-day Adventist, raised $2,000 on his behalf.

And with those few thousand dollars in his pocket—and a heart full of faith—Francia packed his bags for College Place.

The university was able to match that $2,000, and Francia began working right away. He took two jobs, averaging 20 hours a week while juggling a 16-credit class load. And instead of spending his summer break at home in Aloha, Oregon, tending to his mom, Francia stayed in College Place to work and save money to supplement the scholarships he’d been awarded. “It was really hard,” Francia says. “I think what drives me is the fact that I feel a call. I feel like God wants me here. I feel like he’s opened the doors. That’s what drives me. Even though it’s so hard right now, I know I’m not doing it alone.”

MAKING THE GRADE

After clearing the hurdles of applying and paying for college, Yanez found himself struggling academically, despite having taken collegelevel courses in high school.

“With English as a second language, you have to learn the material in a different language and learn new material that you haven’t even come across,” Yanez says, adding that he finally came to a turning point, and

TO SUPPORT GENERAL SCHOLARSHIPS: CALL (800) 377-2586

forced himself to concentrate harder, manage his time better, and reach out to professors for help.

“I’ve learned to develop relationships with teachers, and knowing that they’re there to help you was something I had mostly ignored and hadn’t taken advantage of,” he says. Another campus resource Yanez has come to rely on is the Teaching and Learning Center, where students help tutor other students.

“The TLC became my second home,” he says. “I would be there from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., and then any work that wasn’t done, we’d get a group of friends that were working on the same homework, and we’d be working in the dorm until midnight.”

While Yanez’s parents give him plenty of emotional support (“they tell me every day that they’re proud of me”), it stings knowing that many classmates are able to turn to their parents for homework help when he cannot.

“Sometimes in chemistry, they’ll be kids that said, ‘Oh, I struggled with my homework,’ and I will say the same thing. And they’ll say they got it done because their parents helped them. There are situations where kids like me, we can’t do that. That’s a benefit that we don’t have, so we have to work twice as hard.”

LENDING A HAND

The university is well aware of the challenges facing first-generation college students, and as registrar Carolyn Denney, who

oversees the campus’ mentorship program, notes, those challenges aren’t always tangible ones. Sometimes it simply boils down to a lack of confidence. “It’s all psychology, but what they think about themselves is their reality,” Denney explains. Based on recent first-generation research, special training will be given this fall to participants in the mentorship program (known as the freshman success program) with the goal of addressing these specific areas of concerns. “Providing continual encouragement and helping students believe they are capable of learning and accomplishing their goals is primary,” Denney says.

In the end, the most knowledgeable mentors may, in fact, be the first-generation students themselves. Several have siblings who are following in their footsteps, either attending or preparing to enroll in college. (Sure, Yanez’s brother may still be in high school, but he’s already getting pointers about time management and study habits from his older sibling.) And what of our fearless first-genner Guillermo Francia? Well, one of his two jobs this year is as an enrollment assistant in the Office of Marketing and Enrollment. And while he’s ran into only a handful of students like himself, he already knows the most important advice he could give them: “I’d want to say that anything that’s worth having does not come easy. A lot of success has to do with hard work. The other part that hard work does not cover, faith covers.”

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2014

Walla Walla University

We are a community of faith and discovery committed to:

Excellence in thought Generosity in service Beauty in expression Faith in God

Our alumni touch lives around the world as artists, lawyers, teachers, doctors, musicians, athletes, moms and dads, thinkers and doers.

We seek to foster the unique gifts of every individual within a Christian community of faith and discovery.

In support of this mission and philosophy, from July 1, 2013, to June 30, 2014, Walla Walla University received gifts totaling $7,498,102 and innumerable contributions of time and energy.

We believe that every person is created in the image of God as a being of inestimable value and worth, imbued with powers of intelligence, stewardship, and creativity akin to those of the Creator.

Volunteer Spotlight

Don Hall

1968

Founder • Wellsource, Inc.

Member • WWU Board of Trustees

What is involved in being on the Board of Trustees?

Several times a year we gather for meetings. We spend a lot of time discussing the mission and future of the university and how we’re meeting our goals. With the president and other members of administration, we review committee reports and vote on issues that help give overall direction to WWU. One of our goals is to make tuition as affordable as possible. When I first joined the board several years ago, tuition was going up about 8 percent per year. By trimming expenses, we’ve been able to cut that yearly increase in half. Students still think it’s a lot, and it is, but we’re trying to keep costs as low as we can so that as many can attend as possible.

How did your time at WWU help mold who you are today?

As a student, I started a mountain climbing club called the Yeti Mountaineers.

We held classes in backpacking and wilderness living and hiked hundreds of miles on

many mountains in the Pacific Northwest. For years, I took groups of faculty, staff, and students on 60-mile, weeklong backpack trips.

Now, 45-plus years later, people tell me joining that club was the best thing they ever did. It set them on a path to a positive, healthy lifestyle, the very thing I have devoted my life to, both personally and professionally.

Why do you give to WWU specifically?

If you help someone get an education, they can not only do well for themselves, they can use their learning to help others. It’s like the old adage about teaching a person to fish—it’s better than giving handouts. We like that kind of charitable project.

Everybody can support and encourage students to go to school at WWU. We appreciate what the university is doing. We want to see it prosper and do well. Our son and daughter, a physician and an attorney, respectively, went to WWU. And we’re looking forward to our grandkids going there someday.

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2014

Walla Walla University

To read the stories behind each Walla Walla University endowed scholarship, visit wallawalla.edu/endowments.

NEW ENDOWMENT Endowed scholarships are one way alumni and friends are reaching back to help current students. We’re pleased to announce five new endowed scholarships for 2014.

Jake Mehling Endowed Scholarship Jake Mehling knew the meaning of hard work. When he enrolled at Walla Walla College in 1930 the country was in the midst of the Depression, and he found work on the college farm where he spent 35 to 40 hours each week. Mehling graduated with a business major in 1934 and spent the next several years teaching in the Northwest. In 1947 he returned to Walla Walla College to help teach the growing numbers of war veteran students. He was chair of the business department from 1951 to 1971 where he was especially interested in teaching accounting. Mehling always hoped to repay what the college had done for him and wanted to build a bridge for those who came later. He left a legacy gift designation for an endowed scholarship in his estate plan, which will provide scholarships for junior and senior students majoring in business.

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Westwind Fall 2014

Class of 1955 Endowed Scholarship

Class of 2014 Endowed Scholarship

This endowed scholarship was established to commemorate the 50th graduation reunion of the Class of 1955. The endowment will provide scholarships for students who demonstrate financial need and academic merit. It was the desire of the class to make quality Christian education affordable to all and to ease the financial burden students face.

“We are thankful for the education, friends, and memories we received at Walla Walla University,” says class agent Paul Turpel, “and we are proud to support students at the university as they follow in our footsteps.”

Recognizing that Christian education is a large investment and is often difficult for students to afford, and with the pressures of college life fresh in their minds, the Class of 2014 created an endowment that will make it possible for more students to experience the benefits they enjoyed at Walla Walla University. The class chose the endowment format with the hope that their gift would leave a lasting impact and, in the words of class president Zach Gilbert, “would help further the mission of the school we love: Walla Walla University.”

Marilyn Kay Dammrose Van Stee Endowed Memorial Scholarship Marilyn Van Stee had a passion for the nursing profession. She graduated from the Walla Walla College nursing program in 1969, and worked as a nurse for 37 years. She influenced six nieces and nephews to pursue careers in nursing. She especially enjoyed home health and often had nursing students ride with her for home health clinical rotations. After being diagnosed with breast cancer, she worked full-time for four years as she went through chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. She passed away in September 2006, having retired from nursing only two months earlier. This memorial scholarship was established in her name to allow students with a passion for nursing to pursue their studies with less financial hardship at the university she loved.

The John Montgomery Schultz Endowed Engineering Fund John Montgomery (Monty) Schultz and his parents, John Mark (Mark) and Anita Schultz, created this endowment with funding from Monty’s grandparents and Mark’s parents, William and Marguerite Schultz. The Schultz family has a rich, long history connecting them to six different Adventist universities from Loma Linda University where Mark was an accountant for 22 years and Anita was a public school nurse for 25 years, to Walla Walla University where Monty graduated in 1996 with a degree in civil engineering. Monty helped with construction of the Chan Shun Pavilion at WWU and has worked on construction of three large earthen dams in Southern California. This endowment will support the School of Engineering with funds for the purchase and maintenance of engineering equipment.

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Independent Colleges of Washington

PREVIOUS SPREAD PHOTO: CHRIS DRAKE

TS

The following corporations, foundations, and individuals support higher education by contributing to ICW, a consortium of private colleges. The money from these donors directly benefits Walla Walla University.

Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air Andrew and Robin Stefan Anne Cassidy and Robert Fuller Ascent Law Partners, LLP Belma Villa Ben Bridge Family Donor Advised Fund/Seattle Jewish Community Endowment Fund Bill and Bonnie Robinson Bob and Judy Cushman Brian Dohe Brooks Manufacturing Company Chadd, Elizabeth, Sophie and Noah Bennett Chris Thompson CIC and the UPS Educational Endowment Fund Clark Nuber P.S. Clipper Navigation, Inc. Constance and Rodney Proctor Costco Wholesale Cowles Company Deborah Crouch Deborah Cushing Devon Crouch Dianne Irwin Dr. Thomas and Patricia Krise Fluke Corporation Franz and Yuan Ling Lazarus George D. Bartell Groninger & Co., Inc. Gull Industries Heather M. Barbieri Howard S. Wright Constructors Jennifer Divine and Laureen France Jerry and Charlene Lee Jessica Dafni and Christopher Southard John and Kay Bassett Kenneth J. and Beryl N. Goodchild Lawton Printing, Inc. Lease Crutcher Lewis

Leigh Ann Lucero Loren J. and MaryAnn W. Anderson Michael and Dorothy Bertsch Miller Nash LLP Neal Piliavan and Therese Joyce Ned and Priscilla Lange Nordstrom Norman Archibald Charitable Foundation O. D. Fisher Charitable Fund/ The Seattle Foundation Ober R. Tyus PACCAR Inc. Parker Smith & Feek, Inc. Patty and Michael Daniels PEMCO Foundation Peterson Sullivan LLP Raymond W. and Caryl J. Lawton Rhona Kwiram Russell Investments in honor of retiring Russell Associate Emy Shipley Seattle University Sharon and Charles Kegley Sheraton Seattle Hotel Skanska USA Building Inc. Tacoma News Tribune The Anderson Foundation The Boeing Company The Norcliffe Foundation The Seattle Foundation The Titus Will Families Foundation The Wollenberg Foundation Thomas Bruhns Tom and Brenda Fitzsimmons Tulalip Tribes Charitable Fund U.S. Bank US Bancorp Foundation Walla Walla Union-Bulletin Washington State Auto Dealers Association William E. Rabel/The Seattle Foundation William Kilworth Foundation Wright Runstad & Co.

“Thank you for helping such a place as WWU where every student feels valued, challenged, and appreciated.”

Maxine Iehsi BIOLOGY MAJOR

“No words can describe how grateful I am for this scholarship! I have been struggling with trying to pay for the next school year, and your donation was an answer to my prayers. I have been taught by student missionaries from Walla Walla University all my life, and your gift will allow me to continue to attend the college that has had such a direct and profound impact on my life. My ultimate goal after receiving my degree is to travel back to my native island of Pohnpei and make a difference. Thank you for investing in my dreams. You will be in my prayers. May the Lord continue to bless you as you have blessed me!”

Cody Wilson ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING MAJOR

“Without you I wouldn’t be here. ‘Here’ is so much more than ‘Walla Walla University.’ ‘Here’ is opportunity, advancement, friendship, and God. ‘Here’ is a gift that you have given, and I hope to give it again in the future. Thank you.

You made not only my day, but my year!

Jassica Choi ENGLISH MAJOR, CHEMISTRY MINOR

“As a college student, many things plague my mind: grades, making friends, and making it to class on time. However, through your generous contribution I have less of a burden worrying about paying for school. Your kindness reminds me that there is a God out there who looks out for us in times of worry. Thank you for your generosity.”

Joy Nelson SOCIAL WORK MAJOR, ENGLISH AND RELIGION MINORS

“I am one of the recipients of your scholarship, and I can’t thank you enough. I love being here at Walla Walla University. I know (and have known since early high school) that this is the place the Lord wants me to be so that I can be best equipped for the ministry He has planned for me. Thank you for helping to make this possible!”

Gabriel Gonzalez BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION MAJOR

“I am a senior business administration major and pre-physical therapy student. At first, I didn’t know what I wanted to do and then, unfortunately, I got into a dirt biking accident and broke my left ulna radius and the scaphoiol bone on my right hand. To make a long story short, I needed physical therapy and then decided I want to be a physical therapist.

I love sports and helping others train. My goal is to open my own place and be able to run it

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21

Thank You continued

myself with my business degree. I am putting myself through college. With God’s help and your scholarship, I will be able to continue studying. Thank you once again, and may God bless you.”

Matthew Hagele BIOENGINEERING MAJOR, PRE-MEDICINE

“I just wanted to thank you for your incredible generosity. I appreciate the professors here and the education I am receiving. Each professor has thoroughly impressed me with their dedication to their field and to providing a welcoming and warm Christian environment. Thank you for helping such a place as WWU where every student feels valued, challenged, and appreciated. Your generosity to this school is making a long and lasting impression.”

Chelsea Rogers NURSING MAJOR

“I cannot express how grateful and excited I am to receive this scholarship. My college experience has been incredible, and I am thankful every day for the opportunity I have to receive such a high-quality education. I work as a caregiver in the homes of disabled and terminally ill patients, but I cannot yet fully support myself.

College is very expensive. My parents have provided housing and part of my tuition, but I will still be facing at least $30,000 in student loans when I graduate. I cannot begin to express my gratitude for this scholarship. I put my heart and soul into my studies and try to care for my patients in the best way I can in the hopes that I can become a fantastic nurse in the future.

Thank you again for this opportunity.”

Augusto Epa BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION MAJOR, CONCENTRATION IN ACCOUNTING

“I am very thankful and blessed to have been the recipient of this scholarship. Words cannot explain how much of a positive impact your scholarship has had on me. I am taking accounting, and I hope to become a CPA. I want to be able to get a good job after school so that I can support myself and maybe help a student with school. Receiving this scholarship has enabled me to be more focused on school. I am committed to striving for the best in my educational journey.”

Karissa Barton ELEMENTARY EDUCATION AND MATHEMATICS MAJOR, SPANISH MINOR

“I wanted to say a big loud, ‘THANK YOU!!!’ for your generous scholarship that has allowed me to continue my education at Walla Walla University. I have truly been blessed. Without your help, my college experience would have been harder to manage. You have enabled me to focus more on my schoolwork and future goals of obtaining a degree in math education with a Spanish minor. Your scholarship will make my experience more enjoyable and stress-free. Because of your generosity, I hope to one day help a student in the future and enable them to fulfill their dreams.”

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ENDOWM Administration Building Maintenance ASWWU Student Aid Endowment James and Ruth Bebee Computer Science Scholarship James and Ruth Bebee Nursing Scholarship Beverly Math Faculty Improvement Shannon Marie Bigger Memorial Christian Service Volunteer Scholarship Lester and Geraldine Border Christian Service Scholarship Alice I. Bowden Memorial Theology Scholarship George W. Bowers Excellence in Chemistry Scholarship Boyson Family Communication Scholarship John F. Bregar Memorial Scholarship Junior Senior Business Scholarship School of Business Clair and Myrtle Calkins Library Book Fund D. Ordell and Margaret A. Calkins Business/Education Faculty Development Merle Clairon Calkins Computer Science Faculty Development Lewis Canaday Memorial Technology Scholarship Dr. James R. Chambers Memorial Scholarship Janice P. Chance Memorial Nursing Scholarship Dr. Muriel Chapman Nursing Scholarship Advancement of Chemical Research at Walla Walla University Percy W. Christian Excellence in History Scholarship A. J. and Gladys E. Christiansen Memorial Scholarship Class of 1954 Scholarship

Class of 1955 Scholarship Class of 1957 Scholarship Class of 1959 Student Missions Scholarship Class of 1960 Student Missions Scholarship Class of 1961 Student Missions Scholarship Class of 1965 Scholarship Class of 1971 Scholarship Class of 1978 Scholarship Class of 1983 Scholarship Class of 1984 Scholarship Class of 1989 Edwin Zaugg Memorial Scholarship Class of 1996 Scholarship Class of 1997 Scholarship Class of 2003 Scholarship Class of 2009 Student Missionary Scholarship Class of 2011 Shari Booth Memorial Scholarship Class of 2012 Scholarship Verlin L. and Thelma (Kumalae) Cochran Memorial Scholarship Communication Development Course Computer Science Magazine L. P. “Jim” Corbett English Scholarship L. P. “Jim” Corbett History Scholarship L. P. “Jim” and Jane B. Corbett Student Aid Scholarship Lee Crain Memorial Music Scholarship Edward F. Cross Engineering Scholarship Nancy Cross Memorial English Faculty Development Fund Vera Davis-Michel Memorial English Scholarship Edward F. and Clara M. Degering Memorial Educational Scholarship Claude and Annie Deming Memorial Fund Loren Dickinson Communications Scholarship

Dietrich/Wilkinson Aviation Scholarship Frances Dixon Special Education Dr. Ralph A. Drake Scholarship Lars and Anna Dybdahl Scholarship Josephine Cunnington Edwards Memorial Scholarship H. Russell and Genevieve Emmerson Memorial Scholarship Engineering Chair Endowment Mary Garner Esary Memorial Scholarship Faculty/Staff Scholarship Dena W. and R. B. Farnsworth Nursing Scholarship Ray and Alice Fowler Scholarship Norma S. Gardner Memorial English Scholarship Wilford and Emma Goffar Scholarship Graduate Dean’s Award Albert E. and Reta J. Graham Memorial Scholarship John J. Hafner Music Scholarship Lovyl and Mary Hagle Memorial Worthy Student Scholarship Richard and Dena Hammill Memorial Scholarship Thomas Hampson Humanities Merit Scholarship Howard E. Hanafin Scholarship Clyde and Mary Harris Challenge Grant Pauline Hart Memorial Social Work Scholarship Richard and Georgiana Hayden Christian Service Scholarship Rodney Heisler Engineering Scholarship/Grant Robert A. Henderson Memorial History Scholarship

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An endowment is a fund that has its principal invested in perpetuity, with only the earnings from the fund spent.

MENTS Wilma E. Hepker Scholarship Paul and Frances Heubach Memorial Theology Scholarship Jess Holm Memorial Scholarship Juanita Wagner Holm Memorial Nursing Scholarship Helen and Archie Howatson Nursing Scholarship Oland F. Hubbs Memorial Theology Scholarship Vera Johnson Hubbs Memorial Business Scholarship Dr. and Mrs. Harold Huber Scholarship Wynelle J. Huff Nursing Scholarship Jess M. Hutson, M.D., Memorial Scholarship IBCC Jensen Memorial Math Scholarship Dr. Gordon Johnson Physics Scholarship Murray L. and Ilene Johnstone Scholarship Carl and Lucile Jones Nursing Scholarship Peggy Henderson Kaye Nursing Scholarship

Helen Wineberg Kendall Women in Business Scholarship KGTS Betty Klein Engineering Scholarship A.H. and Mary Koorenny Memorial Scholarship Robert H. and Thorna Koorenny Scholarship Kretschmar Hall Maintenance Luella Latham Kretschmar Memorial Scholarship Laura G. Larson Memorial Nursing Scholarship Rudolf and Anna Klimes Learn Well Physical Education Scholarship H. Lloyd Leno Memorial Music Scholarship Lewiston/Clarkston Scholarship Harold Lickey Music Scholarship Jennie M. Livingston Memorial Library Fund Dr. C. Stanley Lloyd Jr. Scholarship Kelly Logan Social Work Scholarship Romulo and Mercedes Lozano Scholarship Mary E. Marker Memorial Theology Scholarship

Walla Walla University

2014

Many thanks to the donors who made possible the endowments listed here. Your investment today helps to secure the future success of Walla Walla University and generations of students to come.

Roy and Lois (Dorland) Martin English Scholarship Sukhdev Mathaudhu Engineering Scholarship Mathematics Alumni Scholarship Mathematics Scholarship Warren Matheson Memorial Christian Service Scholarship Matiko Theology Award Harden M. McConnell and Alvin L. Kwiram Award Eldena McDow Scholarship Jacob G. and Lois A. Mehling Business Scholarship Messenger/Loewen Scholarship Jack Evan Miles Memorial Scholarship MariAnne Jensen Moore Memorial Nursing Scholarship Dan and Mary Morrison Necker Scholarship Joseph & Beth Murray Memorial Scholarship for Resident Assistants Music Scholarship Llewellyn and Vivian Nixon Scholarship Nursing Scholarship Daniel A. Ochs Memorial Theology Scholarship

During the 2013–14 fiscal year, the endowments listed here provided:

Dr. and Mrs. Howard Osborne Scholarship Blythe Owen Music Scholarship Doreen Paulson-Evans Memorial Scholarship Yvonne Pickett Memorial Scholarship Piper-Johanson Scholarship Helen L. Popoway Endowment Robert L. Reynolds Excellence in History Scholarship Robert M. Reynolds Memorial Scholarship Donald W. Rigby Biology Award Donald W. Rigby Biology Faculty Research Donnie Rigby Drama Award Rigby Hall Maintenance Lilah S. Risinger Mathematics Scholarship John D. Rogers, M.D., Memorial Scholarship Rosario Marine Station Maintenance Thomas C. Rowsell Memorial Scholarship Thais Thrasher Sadoyama Scholarship Gayle L. Saxby Memorial Scholarship Lilah Schlotthauer Memorial Mathematics Scholarship Eleanor B. Schofield Memorial Teachers Scholarship John Montgomery Schultz Engineering Fund Seibly Family Endowed Scholarship Cecil W. Shankel Memorial Chemistry Scholarship Shattuck/Zitterbart Memorial Nursing Scholarship Donald and Virginia Sherwood Memorial Scholarship Carolyn Stevens Shultz Scholarship Dan Shultz Music Scholarship Solomon Scholarship

Gene and Betty Soper Music Scholarship Robert L. Spies Memorial Scholarship Glenn Spring Music Scholarship Joseph L. Stubblefield Memorial Scholarship Janis Suelzle Memorial Fund T5 Foundation Business Excellence Fund Theology Library Book Fund George and Lola Thompson Memorial Scholarship Thomas M. Thompson and Kenneth L. Wiggins Excellence in Mathematics Scholarship Harry and Ella Thornton Memorial Scholarship E.E. and Jane BreeseTrefz Christian Service Scholarship Clarence O. Trubey Memorial Music Scholarship Undergraduate Advanced Study Marilyn K. (Dammrose) Van Stee Memorial Nursing Scholarship Verde Fund for Graduate Marine Research Eva Stratton Vliet and Jess Vliet Scholarship Stanley E. Walker Music Scholarship Francys C. Welch Scholarship Melvin K. West Music Scholarship Lois Whitchurch Nursing Scholarship Monte Wilkins Memorial Scholarship John and Inez Willey Family Memorial Scholarship WWU Student Aid Randy Yaw Pi Contest Scholarship Young Memorial Lecture in Biology Norma R. Youngberg Scholarship

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2014

Walla Walla University

Alumni support helps maintain quality education at WWU and enhances the reputation of the university in many arenas.

ALUMNI GIVING GATEWAY AWARD

MOUNTAIN ASH AWARD

ORANGE & GREEN AWARD

SPECIAL MENTION

HIGHEST TOTAL GIVING

HIGHEST CLASS PARTICIPATION

HIGHEST PARTICIPATION OF A CLASS GRADUATED IN THE LAST 10 YEARS

MOST IMPROVED PARTICIPATION

36.1%

5.5%

+29.8%

162,695

$

Class of 1948

24

Thank you to the class agents and to each class member who gave generously to support Walla Walla University during the fiscal year July 1, 2013, to June 30, 2014.

Year

Class Agent

1933-1947

Lowell Bock

1948

Verona Schnibbe

1949 1950 1951 1952

Class of 1963

Class of 2004

Class of 1950

Total Giving

Participation

Year

Class Agent

Total Giving

Participation

$51,285

13.8%

1958

Pat Johnston

$6,440

32.8%

$162,695

28.6%

1959

John Sproed

$5,290

31.9%

No Class Agent

$4,546

28.8%

1960

Shirley Thomas

$15,442

29.7%

No Class Agent

$29,521

29.8%

1961

Pat Jones

$71,780

27.6%

Ken Spady

$31,568

29.5%

1962

Dale Beaulieu

$10,561

32.4%

Olen Nations

$32,705

27.6%

1963

Ed Scheresky

$13,055

36.1%

1953

Eddie Norton

$11,983

16.9%

1964

Bob Brody

$11,140

25.8%

1954

Stewart Shankel

$4,237

29.6%

1965

Gerry Miller

$55,249

27.9%

1955

Paul and Lois Turpel

$22,031

30.9%

1966

Carlton Cross

$13,257

23.5%

1956

Tom and Brooke Stafford

$8,365

27.3%

1967

Gary Fresk

$6,095

24.2%

1957

Victor Fitch

$15,295

28.6%

1968

Don Hall

$16,007

14.4%

Westwind Fall 2014

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Year

Class Agent

1969

Lou Blanchfield

Total Giving

Participation

$14,030

22.6%

1970

No Class Agent

1971

Bruce and Mary Lou Ham

1972

Fred Biesenthal

1973

Sheila Palmer

1974 1975 1976 1977 1978

Beverly Foster

1979

Warren Kay

1980

Jeff Kinne

$13,193

14.8%

1981

Lisa Bissell Paulson

$7,375

12.0%

1982

Helen Teske

$35,601

12.5%

1983

Gabe Acosta

$33,625

10.9%

1984

No Class Agent

$18,246

12.6%

1985

Dean Tupper

$45,290

13.2%

1986

Jerry Bauman

$7,145

14.6%

1987

Kevin Krueger

$6,550

12.2%

1988

Keith Perrin

$26,119

12.4%

1989

Linda Abdel-Malek

$10,285

9.0%

1990

Mike Devitt

$4,475

9.5%

1991

Cecily Geschke

$1,870

6.2%

1992

Stacy Peterson

1993

Kellie Bond

1994

Peter Fackenthall

1995

Jim Kneller

1996 1997

$3,325

17.6%

$10,105

13.3%

$11,126

12.9%

$60,081

12.5%

Rick Mace

$9,631

14.2%

Linda Carpenter

$8,201

11.2%

Diana Pierce

$14,566

16.0%

Ralph Perrin

$13,881

13.4%

$21,131

16.3%

$13,076

12.5%

$1,351

3.8%

$4,705

6.2%

$32,085

6.4%

$970

3.3%

Tom Hamel

$9,455

6.5%

Ken Aso and Team

$3,310

5.6%

1998

Jorge Barcelo

$5,350

4.6%

1999

Les Zollbrecht

$2,158

5.3%

2000

Greg McCulloch

$10,997

5.2%

2001

Jeff Colburn

$5,829

8.0%

2002

Mike Vercio

$5,156

5.6%

2003

Chris Santana

$1,325

4.7%

2004

Jessica Stone

$10,435

5.5%

2005

Steve Sanders

$610

3.4%

2006

Michelle Beckner

$5,120

3.9%

2007

Melinda Hebbel

$3,035

4.1%

2008

Aaron Linfoot

$2,814

3.3%

2009

Christina Stentzel

$1,561

2.4%

2010

David Bowen

$3,395

2.9%

2011

Greg Hannah-Jones

$1,065

2.0%

2012

Frances Leaf

$985

3.8%

2013

Amy Alderman

$2,629

2.0%

2014

Zach Gilbert

$3,502

3.6%

Legacy Society Members of the Legacy Society have included Walla Walla University in their estate plans.

If you have included WWU in your estate plan and are not listed here, or if you would like to do so, please call (800) 377-2586.

Alice Ames Kirk and Melody Ayers Don and Alyce Bais Beverly Beem Jack and Evelyn Bergman Darold and Barbara Bigger Maxine E. Blome Robert and Georgene Bond Marjorie Bregar Burton and Carol Briggs Merrilyn Brown* Grace Cafferky D. Ordell Calkins* Merle Calkins Lois Carscallen Challis Casebolt Sue Cason Douglas and Carmen Clark Margaret Cook Carlton Cross Sandra Dahl Donald and Orletta Dealy Elaine DeVries* Joyce Dutro Jon and Kathryn Dybdahl Paul and Kristyn Dybdahl James and Vicky Edwards James Eiseman* D. Joyce Engel Dorsett Feyen Allan and Donna Fisher Darius and Amanda Fleck James and Christine Forsyth Brant Foster Kenneth and Bernice Fox Marcene Garriott Henry Gerber Keith and Elizabeth Gibbons Theo and Marianne Goltz Don Hall Jim and Ruth Hall Lewis and Ruth Hart Stanley and Mary Hixson Eugenia Hixson Lorena Hoffman Archie Howatson Delta Huber Wynelle Huff Eunice Johnson Ed and Marilyn Karlow Robert and Peggy Kaye Mary Kincaid Clarence & Helen Klopfenstein Mel and Joyce Lang William Lee* Nancy Ann Linder

Walter and Luella Litchfield Sandra Love Dan and Betsy Matthews Opal Mills William and Marjorie Moreno Alice Nash Olen and Mary Nations Ted and Nancy Nedderman Jim and Nancy Nestler Joan Ogden Alyse Olson Monta Osborne Effie Pampaian Jim and Della Park Beulah Payne Tom and Barbara Pelett Lawrence Perrigoue and Ruth Anne May James and Jennifer Pinder Lloyd and Fern Piper Hoe T. and Mary Poh Edna Powers Robert and Barbara Richards Lois Norton Ritchie-Ritter John and Katherine Robertson Nancy Romine Alberta Roth Glenna Ryder James Sadoyama Doyle and Lorelei Saxby Janelle and Robert Schmidt Marcella Schwisow Jaclin Smith Louis Smith Sam and Carol Smith Ralph and Franice Stirling Eldon and Barbara Stratton Everett and Shirley Tetz Griffith and Shirley Thomas Alden and Wanda Thompson Gordon Travis Phil and Reid Wasser Ray and Pat Watson Ray and Rosemary Watts Dorothy Weisz Melvin and Betty West Deloris White Virginia H. Wilson Tim and Cheri Windemuth Gerald and Vicki Winkle Wade and Rosalee Wolfe Yew-Chong and Lily Wong *Now deceased

Westwind Fall 2014 25

Volunteer Spotlight

DeLona Lang Bell

1979

President and founder • CMBell Company Member • WWU Board of Trustees

What makes WWU’s role unique in today’s world?

For one thing, the Christian university plays an increasingly crucial role in the preservation and exploration of God’s lifechanging ideas about how we should live. In light of the fact that most secular universities can’t expose students to the Christian worldview or create a community where faith is so pervasively modeled, nurtured, and explored, this is significant.

How does your volunteering fit with others who give to WWU? I’m one of so many—other board members, volunteers, alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and leaders past and present—who believe that creating a place where faith and learning can occur is an idea worth working for.

Take, for example, the financial aid staff member who personally raises money for students in need to help them attend WWU. Or faculty who take on extra projects to help our students get a richer experience. So many people have put their own needs after the needs of this university.

How can others support the university?

Give your time, your influence, your money.

Recruit a student. Spread the word in your network.

Pray for the school. It’s one of the best investments you can make.

PHOTO: CHRIS DRAKE

Can you share an example of an experience you’ve had with WWU students?

I recently served on the board of the Independent Colleges of Washington (ICW) and attended their Ethics Bowl where students from all of the state’s private colleges participated in the competition. At the dinner in Seattle where the event concluded, several ICW

board members told me how impressed they were with the WWU team. Our students were professional, poised, intelligent, and well-rounded—just really wonderful human beings.

CHRIS DRAKE; OPPOSITE: BRANDON WITZEL

Why do you serve on the WWU Board of Trustees?

I believe Christian education is one of the best ways to bring the gospel to culture, to communities, and to the marketplace. Education is not just about career preparation; it’s about the shaping of human beings. I get pretty excited about that kind of work.

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Westwind Fall 2014

GIVE ONLINE WALLAWALLA.EDU/GIVE

2014

Walla Walla University

“How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you.”

1 Thessalonians 3:9

VOLUNTEERS Thank you to alumni and friends who give their time and energy to Walla Walla University. We appreciate the support of the volunteers listed here and many others who give to WWU in countless ways.

Campus-wide Volunteers Nieta Adams Janet Anderson Jeanne Bakland Don Barrett Lois Barrett Valorie Bass Cleona Bazzy Deirdre Benwell Robbie Bergman Evelyn Bergman Jack Bergman Marjorie Bregar Jim Cain Larry Canaday Lois Canaday Barbara Casebolt Casey Casebolt Aletha Chung Elizabeth Claridge Rick Claridge Bernard Cook Margaret Cook Ann Cornell

Loretta Cotter Dottie Curameng John Dowie Marion Dressler Bonny Eichner Christie Forsyth Jim Forsyth Allegra Gienger Jacque Goodhew Larry Goodhew Ruth Hall Maxine Hargreaves Kathy Hazen Frances Henderson Wilma Hepker Linda Hintz Roman Hintz Ilo Hutton Bernie Janke Carolyn Janke Dale Johnson Ginger Johnson Gordon Johnson

Patricia Johnson Echo Johnston Ruth Joice Ed Karlow Richard Kruger Karen Lammers Joyce Lampson Barbara Lee Charles Lee Erma Lee Donna Lowrie Carol Maher Tom Maher Lana Martin Bonnie Meske Walt Meske Bill Napier Virginia Napier Larry Panasuk Shirley Panasuk Lois Pegel Carol Perrin Milford Perrin

WWU Alumni Association Board

Carmella Phillips Teresa Reich Pat Reynolds Sally Reynolds Steve Rose Patty Rouse LaVerne Rudolf David Russell Maylene Russell Greg Saunders Aileen Saunders Lorelei Saxby Rita Schroeder Vi Swanson Lola Sylvester Wilbur Sylvester Helen Thompson Zolber Bill Thompson Gina Tsujimura Janis Tsujimura Evelyn Visger

WWU Board of Trustees

CHAIR

EX OFFICIO

CHAIR

Clarence Anderson

Terri Dickinson Neil, director of alumni and parent relations

Max Torkelsen

PRESIDENT

Art King

VICE CHAIR

Bruce Thorn EX OFFICIO

PRESIDENT-ELECT

Ted Swinyar

Jodi Wagner, vice president for university relations and advancement

SECRETARY

Wendy Bleth TREASURER CREDIT TK

Dan Reich

SECRETARY

John McVay MEMBERS

MEMBERS

Bunny Baker Jeremy Beam Greg Brooks Carlton Cross Johannes Fackenthall Felix Tan

Barbara Vories Katie Wagner Verlie Ward Rosemary Watts Cheri Windemuth Tim Windemuth

Harold Altamirano Dennis Barts DeLona Bell Daniel Bergeron Andrew Carrington

Kenneth Crawford Larry Dodds John Freedman Stephanie Gates Don Hall Kathy Hamby Paul Hoover Alan Hurlbert Monty Knittel Merlin Knowles Rhona Kwiram Gordan Lacey Cameron Libby John Loor, Jr.

Peter McPherson Gregory Paskell Dennis Plubell David Prest, Jr. Barbara Prowant Al Reimche Mark Remboldt Kevin Rogers Sandy Schnell Linda Sloop Ed Vargas Oswaldo Villalobos Rodney Wehtje

Westwind Fall 2014 27

Alumni Currents Staying in touch with our family of graduates

AlumNotes

Get up-to-date with just a few of our alumni. Send AlumNote information to alumni@wallawalla.edu

1950s

Doris Syme ’54 lives in Irvine, Calif.

She is retired from four careers: 10 years as a chief accountant, 13 years as business manager at Newbury Park Academy, 16 years chief financial officer at Glendale Adventist Medical Center, and 17 years as director for program and facilities development at Huntington Memorial Hospital. Doris enjoys watercolor, reading, golf, and travel.

Some of Doris’ favorite memories of WWU are the friendships she made and working in the business office with Margarite Aplington ’27, which provided the basis for a solid career in financial management.

Ellen (Mattison) Drachenberg ’59 and her husband, Robert, live in Mount Dora, Fla. Ellen is retired from the General Conference since 1990.

When her husband Reggie died in 2002, she was widowed for nearly a year. However, she says that God gave her another chance to love and be loved when she married Dr. Robert R. Drachenberg. Ellen has four children: Patricia (Mattison) Dalton, Evelyn (Drachenberg) Hodder, Kenneth Mattison, and Ronald Drachenberg. Some of Ellen’s favorite memories of WWU are meeting lasting friends and having wonderful, dedicated teachers.

Dolores (Wagner) Robinson ’59 and her husband, George, live in Farmington, Wash. Dolores retired seven years ago from her career as a day supervisor and charge

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Westwind Fall 2014

nurse at Whitman Medical Center in Colfax, Wash. Dolores and George enjoy their great grandkids and gardening. In the winter months, Dolores and George stay at their home in Yuma, Ariz. They retired from farming in 2012 by leasing out the farm to some good friends and neighbors. Dolores says life is good and their health has remained positive. They have three sons: Steve, Kenneth, and Dale (deceased). They also have three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Dolores’ favorite memories of WWU are the closeness of the teachers and the help and training they generously gave. She loved the campus at Portland and the hospital.

1960s

David Claridge ’64 and his wife, Joanne, live in College Station, Texas. David works for Texas A&M University as professor of mechanical engineering and director of the energy systems laboratory. David is working on a new air conditioner that could eventually change the way buildings are cooled. David and Joanne are active in their church and sing in the choir. They unwind by attending Aggie basketball games, track meets, and watching football. In 2013, they took a cruise and land trip to Alaska and also went to Beijing. Some of David’s favorite memories of WWU are living with George Nordby ‘64, Phil Harris ’64, and John Griffin ’64 in the same two adjacent rooms in Sittner Hall during all four years of their college education at WWU. He fondly remembers Dr. West’s Evensong programs as such an inspiring and relaxing interlude between the busy weeks. He also remembers former Dean Losey’s 1963 visit to OPS when he shared memories and presented two tanned calf skins to OPS, signed

by all the 1938–1952 OPS members.

David also remembers his atomic physics class that immediately preceded the three-hour lab: “It wasn’t unusual for Dr. Barnett to lecture for the entire four hours,” David recalls.

“Definitely memorable!”

Clinton Cummings ’64 and his wife, Esther (Rorabeck) att., live in Goldendale, Wash. Clinton is retired from 43 years of teaching. He enjoys photography and basketball. He has served three times as a ShareHim participant in Africa. Clinton has also served with Maranatha-Livingston in Zambia. Clinton’s favorite memory of WWU is graduation 1964: he was the first in his family of three generations to graduate from college. Clinton and Esther have two children: Craig ‘94 and Susan.

Loren Starr ’64 and his wife, Joan, live in Edwall, Wash. After graduation, Loren left WWU, married and began work as an operating room nurse at the Portland Adventist Hospital. Beginning in 1966, he served in Vietnam in a MASH hospital unit, where he decided that giving anesthesia looked exciting. After his discharge in 1968, he began anesthesia training and took his first full-time position in Havre, Mont., where he spent 10 fulfilling years. The following several years were taken up with travel giving “freelance anesthesia” until he again took a full-time position in Reed City, Mich. During those years, Loren also traveled overseas on some 50 short-term mission trips. Upon retiring from hospital anesthesia, he did part-time pediatric dental anesthesia until completely retiring in 2012. Now he’s enjoying a new project—helping a start-up company called intelliPaper LLC, that makes paper USB flash drives for use in business and evangelism.

Don Abbey ’69 and ’71, and his wife, Janella (Harvey) ’70, live in Berrien Springs, Mich. Don works for Adventist Frontier Missions as Asia

Field Director. After Don graduated with his masters degree in biology, he and Janella accepted positions at Canadian University College. In 1976, they left to establish a biology program at Solusi University in Africa.

Subsequently, they returned to CUC where Don taught biology before moving to Union College in 1998. In 2012, Don and Janella retired and joined Adventist Frontier Missions as field directors for Asia. Now

they live in Thailand and support frontline AFM missionaries in India and two countries of southeast Asia.

Life and traveling in Thailand has brought many adjustments to their lives, Don says, but the great food and cultural richness of India was a real draw. Don and Janella have two daughters, Kelly Goertzen att. and Karen Sky. Don’s favorite memories of WWU are great summers at Rosario Beach Marine Station and the committed faculty that were genuinely interested in his success as a student.

Sylvia Lou (Kinzer) Blanchfield ’69 and her husband, Roger att., live in Churdan, Iowa. Sylvia is a retired nurse educator/administrator. Their four grandsons fill an important place in their lives while they raise corn and soybeans on the high prairie in central Iowa with their son, Brett. Sylvia works as parish nurse for the United Methodist Church in Churdan. She enjoys writing and painting and helping with the women’s ministries as needed for consultation, speaking, and writing. Sylvia and Roger have two children: Loralee Sandoval and Brett Blanchfield.

Sylvia’s favorite memories of WWU encompass her entire life. When she was 4 years old, she remembers attending camp meeting kindergarten in Sittner Hall. When she was 5, she remembers taking piano lessons in the music conservatory and playing in the pond with Judy Schwartz att. while waiting for her mother to pick her up. She loved the “Hello Walk” and would walk it with her friends, seeing how many college students

READ WESTWIND ONLINE: WESTWIND.WALLAWALLA.EDU

Karlyn Bond Karlyn Bond ’89 (second from left) lives in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she is a professor of music, member of the honors faculty, and chair of the music department at Westminster College. She is also director of the Westminster Concert Series.

As a Jacob K. Javits Fellowship recipient she earned a Master of Music and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of Southern California where she graduated in 1994. In 1996 she released the compact disc, “Piano Classics from the World of Jane Austen.”

Karlyn has been a leader in the formation and implementation of the Westminster College music major. Her teaching career at Westminster has included studio piano courses in music history and music theory, as well as seminars in music, literature, and art. She has traveled throughout the country as a soloist and chamber musician and is a member of the Salt Lake City-based piano quartet, Quattro Amici. Karlyn enjoys reading, walking, traveling, shopping, and watching baseball.

would say hello to them. Sylvia says that orchestra conductor Professor Haffner and former University Church pastor Elder Paul Heubach, “made a difference in the picture I have of God to this very day.” She remembers Sonja Gurley’s crystal voice. She remembers friends, village kids, and learning to whistle at the Sonnenberg Series games.

Sylvia feels that College Place is still home to her, and especially because her mother still lives there.

Marilyn (Timothy) Maxwell ’69 and her husband, Richard, live in Encinitas, Calif. Marilyn recently retired after working for Clark County School District in Las Vegas as a school nurse for 25 years. The Maxwells relocated to southern California and are enjoying the fel-

lowship of their new church family at Oceanside Seventh-day Adventist Church. They are active in the church’s mission outreach programs and are working on an addition to their new home. They have a son, David Maxwell ’00 and grandchildren, both of whom they love to visit. Marilyn’s favorite memory of WWU is working at the college store and meeting all the students.

Robert “Bob” Van Stee ’69 lives in Inyokern, Calif. After his wife, Marilyn (Dammrose) ‘69, passed away in 2006, Bob decided to retire from his work as a flight test engineer for the Navy. In 2008, he organized a highly successful “Relay for Life” event for the American Cancer Society. After that, he has been constantly traveling the globe. He has bicycled parts of northern France and the Normandy beaches, and Tuscany along the Mediterranean, northern Spain and southern France.

He has also motorcycled through about 16 countries. Every year, Bob spends four or five weeks in Mexico and the rest of his time in Arizona, California, Oregon, and Washington.

Bob and Marilyn have two children, Vanessa ’94, who is a physician in Massachusetts, and Dana att., who is a respiratory therapist at Loma Linda University Hospital. He also has four grandchildren. His favorite memories of WWU are meeting Marilyn and taking classes from Professor Edward F. Cross.

1970s

Rosemary (Ashby) Kinsfather ’74 lives in Redondo Beach, Calif. Now 87 years old, she is retired and has three daughters, seven grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

She lives at a senior complex that has a clubhouse and swimming pool. Her hobbies include cooking, knitting, painting pictures, and walking. Rosemary says she enjoyed her

years ago. Her favorite memories from WWU are the Friday night candlelight worships in the dorm and at the old chapel next to the girls’ dorm. She loves the little eating area next to the school where she remembers getting the thickest milkshakes—peanut butter was her favorite. “You could turn it over and nothing would come out!” Diane says. She also remembers enjoying the waffle/ice cream breakfast.

1980s

years at WWU, getting together with friends, her science and art classes, walking the campus, and the quiet atmosphere of learning.

Frederick Lloyd ’74 and his wife, Susan (Tohm) ‘75, live in Calimesa, Calif. Frederick is self-employed as an Emergency Department Physician in several hospitals for California Emergency Physicians Group (CEP). He enjoys his family, children, grandchildren, and many outdoor activities. Frederick and Susan have two sons and two daughters: Erik ’04, Michael ’04, Amye ’08, and Kristen att. Frederick’s favorite memories of WWU are working in the student missions office with everyone there and flying out to small churches on Sabbath to give sermons.

Denny Krause ’79 and his wife, Joy (Fearing) ‘78, live in Yucaipa, Calif.

Denny is retired, and Joy works as an administrative assistant at the Loma Linda University School of Nursing. They moved to California to be close to their children, Laurie ‘04 and Alan ‘08, and their first grandchild, Addy. Denny’s favorite memories from WWU are eating Yogi sandwiches and other treats at the old College Dairy bar and classes with Loren Dickinson.

Diane (LeMaster) Liston ’79 and her husband, Ted, live in Tujunga, Calif. Diane has worked at the USC Verdugo Hills Hospital as a case manager for over 15 years. She has been a nurse for over 33 years and worked for various hospitals and insurance companies. Diane got her case manager certification four

Sandra (Bocanegra Gonzalez) Graham ’84 and her husband, Richard, live in Walla Walla Wash.

Sandra works at Walla Walla Community College as a member of the health science faculty. Sandra says that her varied experiences in nursing and cultural backgrounds have paved the way for a career in health science education. In 2009, Sandra received a master’s degree in nursing education from University of Phoenix. Recently, she received certification as a Spanish/English medical interpreter for Washington state. Sandra and Richard have two teenage children, Rico and Angelica, who attend Walla Walla Valley Academy. Some of Sandra’s favorite memories of WWU are working for the grounds department as a student.

Roma (Watson) Gryte ’84 and her husband, Garth ‘81, live in Grass Valley, Calif. Roma works as a business process analyst and trainer. Roma and Garth have three children: Caitlin Clewell, Roman Clewell, and Alexandria Bryant.

Lenny McGill ’84 lives in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada. He remembers his Dad telling him over 30 years ago: “You need to continue your education, these will be the best years of your life.” At that time, Lenny was making big money in the once-sustainable commercial fishing industry, and he didn’t think a post-secondary education would improve his life. However, he listened to his father, and it has been 30 years since he graduated from WWU. “Now I can reflect and admire his comment,” Lenny says. “What a difference those four years made in my life. Some have said I maybe enjoyed those years too much!”

Westwind Fall 2014 29

Alumni Currents Staying in touch with our family of graduates

Don Schafer ’84, and his wife, Sharon (Hintz) ’91, live in College Place, Wash. Don is a math and languages teacher at Walla Walla Valley Academy. Don and Sharon have three children: Hannah,

Samuel, and Lilyanne. Don enjoys backpacking and hiking, reading and languages, music, and meeting people from other cultures.

He says he especially enjoys early morning hikes in the Blues and goes several times a week. He also enjoys any activity with his children, especially reading together.

Roberta (Pyle) Day ’89 and her husband, Steve att., live in Richland, Wash. Roberta works for CH2M Hill as a project delivery manager. Her favorite memory of WWU is surveying and water/ hydro labs.

Charles Reel ’89 and his wife, Karla (Peck) ‘90, live in Agana Heights, Guam. Charles works for Guam-Micronesia Mission of Seventh-day Adventists as treasurer.

Charles has also worked for the Oregon Conference as a business intern at the treasury department, Pacific Press Publishing Association, Home Health Education Services as Lake Union Conference Chief Operating Officer, and Dakota Conference vice president of finance and treasurer. Charles received a masters in business administration with an emphasis in health care administration from Loma Linda University in 2012. Charles and Karla have two children: Kasondra and Cameron.

Charles’ favorite memories of WWU are friends and Sabbath afternoon activities.

1990s

Craig Connell ’94 and his wife, Rebecca (Duncan) ‘95, live in Pocatello, Idaho. Craig works as a bookkeeper for Cooper & Larsen, Chtd. Craig’s favorite memory of WWU is enjoying the beauty of the campus.

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Westwind Fall 2014

2000s

Janella (McGhee) Riter ’00 and her husband, Benjamin Riter ‘00, live in Puyallup, Wash. After completing her degree in social work from WWU, Janella went on to get her masters from Loma Linda University while Benjamin was working on his medical degree. She says that she enjoyed working in both in-patient and out-patient settings as a clinical therapist. After that, she worked as a social worker in hospice and home health care in Washington.

Once their three children came along, Janella has been a full-time mother and homemaker. Benjamin worked in Frontier Medicine in the Arctic Circle right out of residency and now enjoys a more stable but thriving practice with Group Health. Janella’s favorite memories of WWU are the freshmen orientation games. She says that she will always remember these games because they made her feel much more comfortable and she found most of her longtime college friends during the games.

Jeff Rüb ’04 and his wife, Jessica (Rima) att., live in Indio, Calif. Jeff works as a jet captain for Sky

In Memory Ackerman-Winn—Dorice Esther (Reith) ’41 was born Nov. 22, 1917, in Roseburg, Ore., and died July 14, 2014, in Lodi, Calif. Surviving: husband Alfred Vernon Winn of St. Helena, Calif.; son Paul Ackerman att. of Medford, Ore.; stepsons Alfred Winn Jr. of Lebanon, Pa.; and Kenneth Winn of Citrus Heights, Calif.; daughters Judy Nash of Lodi, Calif.; and Margaret Taggart of Rancho Mirage, Calif.; sisters Margaret Lund of Zionsville, Ind.; and Lorraine (Reith) Stroup att. of Orange, Calif.

Cramer—Lillian ’56 was born Nov. 22, 1931, and died Nov. 9, 2013, in Lawai, Hawaii. Surviving: husband William att. of Lawai; and sons Brian and Lloyd att.

Folkes—Milly Mae att. was born Oct. 8, 1930, in North Dakota, and died June 23, 2013, in Meridian, Idaho. Surviving: sons Dan Folkes and Bruce Folkes.

Garner—Arthur ’57 was born May 24, 1935, in Landour, Mussoorie, India, and died April 8, 2014, in Walla Walla. Surviving: wife, Betty (Dasher) att.; and sons Maurice, Gordon att. of Agat, Guam, and Kent.

West Airlines. He enjoys playing golf in his spare time. Jeff’s favorite memory of WWU is flying down to Phoenix and San Diego for spring break with friends.

Philip Sirbu ’04 and his wife, Marianne, live in Quebec, Canada.

He earned a master’s in education with a focus in curriculum and instruction. Philip teaches ESL (English as a Second Language) courses to adults and says that it feels great to be self-employed.

Philip’s favorite memories from WWU include the International Food Fair, working out at the gym, studying in the Fish Bowl, attending chapels, and Sabbath services experiences. Philip and Marianne have one child, Gabriel, who will be 2 years old this fall.

Hamilton—John ’61 was born July 8, 1933, in Boise, Idaho, and died Dec. 9, 2013, in Boring, Ore. Surviving: wife Arlene ’56; son Louis att. of Boring, Ore.; daughters Lynnette Jensen att. of Bellingham, Wash.; and Laura Blair of Tualatin, Ore.; and sister Phyllis Brass att. of Springfield, Tenn.

Jarrett—Nancy att. was born Oct. 7, 1935, in Pullman, Wash., and died Dec. 21, 2005, in Wenatchee, Wash. Surviving: husband Richard ’68 of Coulee Dam, Wash.; son Bill of Galt, Calif.; daughter Debbie Buchler of Loveland, Colo.; brother Bob Norman att. of Gig Harbor, Wash.; and sisters Phyllis Larson att. of Walla Walla, Julia Darrow att. of Falls City, Wash., Mary Dileno att. of Lacey, Wash., and Gina Mooney att. of College Place.

Kenline Sr.—Robert Donald ’58 was born May 10, 1929, in San Jose, Calif., and died Aug. 27, 2014, in Vancouver, Wash. Surviving: son Robert Donald Kenline Jr. of Detroit, Mich.; and daughter Jennifer (Kenline) Leifer of Edmonds, Wash.

Shimmin—Scott ’90 was born Jan. 31, 1966, in Glendale, Calif., and died June 9, 2014, in Los Angeles.

Surviving: wife S. Jeanie (Burow) Shimmin ’89; son William of Vista, Calif.; daughter Christie of Vista, Calif.; mother Harriet of Clovis, Calif.; sisters Jody Liu of Clovis, Calif.; and Cherie Schmid of Ojai, Calif.; and brother Gary of Clovis.

Sornberger Brown—Merrilyn ’55 was born March 13, 1933, in Denver, Colo., and died Dec. 14, 2013, in Niland, Calif. Surviving: sisters Evangeline Gerard, Bonnie Kaiser, and Roberta Eisner.

Wentland—Jerold ’72 was born April 21, 1949, in Hazen, N.D., and died July 22, 2014, in Vancouver, Wash. Surviving: son Christopher of Yamhill, Ore.; brothers Jim of Spokane, Wash.; and John of Lake Havasu City, Ariz.; sisters Wyann Northrop of Missoula, Mont.; and Wanda Janes of Newport, Ore. Whitehouse—Esther ’49 was born Nov. 10, 1924, in Kelso, Wash., and died April 2, 2014, in Goldendale, Wash. Surviving: sons Daniel of Warren, Ore.; and Timothy att. of Edinburg, Texas; daughters Kathleen Hudson att. of Goldendale, Carol Opitz att. of Gresham, Ore., and Jo McGuinness att. of Tigard, Ore. Whitehouse—Ivan ’49 was born June 2, 1922, in Toledo, Wash., and died Dec. 20, 2013, in Goldendale, Wash. Surviving: wife Esther Whitehouse ’49 of Goldendale, Wash.; sons Daniel of Warren, Ore.; and Timothy att. of Edinburg, Texas; daughters Kathleen Hudson att. of Goldendale, Carol Opitz att. of Gresham, Ore., and Jo McGuinness att. of Tigard, Ore.

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UniversityFund Every door on our campus opens to a world of opportunity for our students.

Your gifts to the Walla Walla University Fund help to ensure these doors remain open. By giving, you:

PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS that make quality Christian education accessible and lessen the burden of college debt. Ninety percent of WWU students qualify for financial aid.

FUND INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS and services in academics, student life, and spiritual growth to prepare students and connect them to rewarding careers.

UPDATE FACILITIES to accommodate modern ways of learning and preserve our unique campus community. Smart classrooms allow professors to enhance lectures through video and online resources.

HELP US REACH OUR $430,000 GOAL bEFORE JUNE 30, 2015.

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Upcoming events to note on your calendar

November 9

“I Have Called You Friends” will be presented by Linda Emmerson, assistant professor of philosophy, for the Distinguished Faculty Lecture.

Emmerson will explore what it means to be a friend and just how important is the notion of friendship for someone seeking to live a morally meaningful life.

The lecture begins at 7 pm in the Fine Arts Center Auditorium.

December 6–14

December 12

“These Shining Lives,” a play based on

“Rejoice at His Birth”

wwudrama presents

a true story dramatizing the dangers faced by the workforce of the 1920s, especially for four women who worked painting watch dials with a radium compound that glowed in the dark. The curtains rise at 8 pm on Dec. 6, 7, 11, 13, and 14.

Find information and tickets at drama.wallawalla.edu.

The Walla Walla Valley will lead by the Department of Music at the annual Christmas concert. The concert theme this year is based on Luke 1:14, “He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth.”

Concerts at 6 pm and 8 pm in the University Church or watch via live stream at wallawalla.edu/concert.

February 20–21 ASWWU Weekend of Worship hosts

Randy Roberts, senior pastor of the Loma Linda University Church, for vespers Friday at 8 pm and for the Sabbath church service in the University Church.

February 20–21

Weekend events for

Southern California alumni, parents, and friends of WWU

include a gathering at The Old Spaghetti Factory for young alumni. See a full schedule of events at alumni. wallawalla.edu/events.

March 14

The spring Choir and Orchestra Concert will include

several pieces highlighting each musical ensemble.

The concert begins at 4 pm in the University Church.

For a full calendar of events visit wallawalla.edu/calendar Follow us on flickr, Facebook, and tumblr