Westmont Magazine A Golden Class

Returning to campus 50 years after their graduation, the class of 1950 marched in Commencement once again. They donned caps and gowns to join the class of 2000 in the ceremonial procession. President David K. Winter recognized them to thunderous applause.

Nearly 40 Golden War-riors attended events during the three-day Class of 1950 Anniversary Weekend May 4–6. The group shared meals and memories and even met with Westmont trustees.

Paul Maurer, director of the capital campaign, taught a special mini-class for them, “Signs of Hope for the Church in the Future.” He is completing a Ph.D. in political philosophy at Claremont Graduate University. President Winter and his wife, Helene, honored them at a high tea.

They took home more than memories. Robert and Doris Amblin Hager and Maxine Vaughan Caswell compiled “Bound Together,” a beautiful volume featuring information about some 70 classmates. It includes photos from college days as well as current pictures.

This remarkable class sent missionaries all over the world and produced dedicated teachers and pastors. Many give thanks for marriages of 40 and 50 years and more.

An introduction to “Bound Together” says the class was the largest in college history, “swelled by men and women returning to civilian life. The student body suddenly changed from predominantly female to predominantly male, and its median age rose sharply.”

The editors of the book were “impressed, awed, and humbled by reading the updates of the lives of our classmates, many of whom have made highly significant contributions to God’s work, and some of those at great personal sacrifice.” They pay tribute to Westmont faculty and staff, “the saints who went before us to lead the way, to set the example, to share their knowledge and their lives.”

They conclude, “But ultimately, it is not what we have done for Christ; it is what He has done for us . . . . We hope all those who read this Memory Book will be impressed by, and appreciative of, the power of God as He works through flawed mortals.”

Through messages to the class, they exhort each other to remain strong in faith:

“As members of the ‘Greatest Generation,’ let us continue to ‘tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord.’”
“‘You are my God. My times are in your hands.’ These verses are a real comfort in the uncertain times in which we live. How true it is, Our God is faithful!”

“Though the stairs may get steeper as we get closer Home, let us finish well.”