Westmont Magazine Helping Students Find Their Way

During her 25 years in the Westmont admissions office, Joyce Luy has recruited thousands of students. Sometimes she starts working with them as high school sophomores, guiding them through the complex college application process. She builds strong bonds with many and keeps in touch with numerous graduates.

“I see students who should be at Westmont, who want to be here, but who can’t come because of finances,” she says. “It breaks my heart.”

As members of the Wallace Emerson Society, the Luys have made a provision for Westmont in their will or estate plan. “Our goal is to help the students who want to come to Westmont but can’t afford the cost,” Joyce says. “Every year, it’s a struggle to watch students and families try to line up their finances. So many make huge sacrifices to be here — and too many end up going somewhere else. The need for scholarships gets greater every year, and we want to do something to help.”

Joyce has directed the admissions office since 1999; she became dean of admission in 2005. For years she spent months on the road meeting prospective students and parents nationwide and internationally. Now she travels to speak at conferences and workshops. The winner of numerous awards for her admissions work, she has become a recognized expert in her field.

Chris taught piano at Westmont from 1988 to 1995. “I became attached to the school and the students during those years,” he says. “It was a special time in my life.” A talented musician, Chris sells home furnishings and pianos, teaches students, tunes instruments and plays professionally for events throughout Santa Barbara.

In particular, the Luys hope to assist students with special needs or who come from diverse ethnic backgrounds. “Working closely with these amazing young men and women who make such an effort to be here really inspires me,” Joyce says. “We just love these students and want to do whatever we can to make sure they can stay and graduate.”

For more information about the Wallace Emerson Society, call the Office of Gift Planning, (805) 565-6058 or (800) 998-5652.