Westmont Alumnus of the Year

There’s an old adage that says you need a Paul, a Barnabas, and a Timothy in your life. The Paul in your life is somebody who teaches you. He or she pushes you to be a better person. The Barnabas in your life is somebody who encourages you. He or she loves on you. The Timothy in your life is somebody who you teach or encourage. You give back by being their Paul or Barnabas.

Rarely do I meet somebody who is all three. But there is one such person in my life. His name is Stan Gaede.

Whenever I meet with Stan he says something filled with wisdom or insight, which I often find myself pondering for days afterward. He is filled with pure encouragement and is quick to point out some strength in myself that I might have overlooked. He is brilliant at asking questions, so I find mself teaching him from time to time. He is the definition of a lifelong learner.

Here’s an example. When D’Aun and I were asked to chair the Westmont Parents Council, the first person I called for advice was Stan. He asked good questions (he was Timothy), then proceeded to tell me why I should accept the offer (his inner Paul) and that I’d be incredible at it (Barnabas). So I said yes. One thing led to another, and now I’m on the Board of Trustees for the college.

So why am I bringing Stan up now? Because Stan was recently honored as the Westmont Alumnus of the Year at the 75th anniversary gala in Santa Barbara. I can think of nobody more deserving. He was the President of the college for five years, and the Provost before that. Westmont’s liberal arts institute is named after the man. He combines all the elements one hopes to see in a Westmont graduate: competency in his field, strength of character, love for God, deep humility, passion for learning, and a simple joy in life.

Stan is a unique person who is deserving of this simple Alumnus award … and much much more.

Congratulations, Stan. It’s an honor to call you my friend.