Campus News

Westminster College Announces B. W. Bastian Foundation Gift

Foundation underwrites 2008-09 Diversity Lecture Series

SALT LAKE CITY—Westminster College recently announced that the B. W. Bastian Foundation is underwriting the college’s 2008-09 diversity lecture series. The Bastian Foundation Diversity Lecture Series will offer a forum for students, activists, professionals and community members to share their knowledge and ideas on diversity issues related to race, class and gender. The foundation previously supported other diversity-related initiatives at the college.

“The Bastian Foundation is honored to sponsor this year’s diversity lecture series,” said Michael Marriott, executive director. “We are delighted that Westminster is committed to promoting equality for all by hosting the series.”

Coordinated by Bridget M. Newell, PhD, Westminster’s Associate Provost for Diversity and Global Learning, the theme of the 2008-09 lecture series is “Why Does Diversity Matter Now?” The first lecture will be on September 15 and will focus on race, class, gender and the 2008 elections.

“We are pleased that the Bastian Foundation is supporting such an important component of Westminster’s diversity efforts,” said Newell. “The diversity series promotes student learning outside of the classroom, allows for students to engage with local and nationally known diversity experts and invites interested community members onto our campus. All of this helps to promote Westminster’s core value of respect for diverse people and perspectives.”

The series continues in November with a lecture on women’s health and the environment. For more information on other lectures in the series, visit www.westminstercollege.edu/cultural_events.

About Westminster
Westminster is a nationally recognized, comprehensive liberal arts college. With a broad array of graduate and undergraduate programs, Westminster is distinguished by its unique environment for learning. Westminster prepares students for success through active and engaged learning, real world experiences and its vibrant campus community. Westminster’s unique location, adjacent to the Rocky Mountains and to the dynamic city of Salt Lake, further enriches the college experience. For more information, visit www.westminstercollege.edu.

About the B.W. Bastian Foundation
The B.W. Bastian Foundation strives to build community and understanding by supporting local and national institutions. Financial support is directed at artistic, educational, and cultural programs. A strong commitment is placed on programs and organizations that benefit, encourage, and preserve the rights of individuals and promote equality for the gay and lesbian community. For more information, visit www.bastianfoundation.org.