Westmont Magazine A Leader Retires

“We really need six people to replace Dr. Ed Potts ’51,” jokes President David Winter. “He has made a tremendous contribution to Westmont.” After 27 years, Ed recently retired from his position as assistant to the president, director of institutional research and planning, and director of off-campus programs.

Ed earned a doctor of theology degree after graduating from Westmont and returned to campus in 1968 as associate professor of Christian education and assistant to the academic dean. With acting president Frank Hieronymus, he designed the first Europe semester program. When new president John Snyder arrived in 1969, he asked Ed to serve as assistant to the president. In 1971, Ed also took on the duties of director of institutional research.

During periods of personnel transition, Ed provided much needed continuity. His tenure has spanned the administration of three presidents, three interim presidents, four academic deans, and three interim academic deans.

“Ed is a person who rarely received the public recognition his work deserved,” comments President Winter. “By my definition, he is a true leader. He made things happen, he brought resolution to issues, and he moved the college forward. His humble attitude makes him a classic ‘servant-leader.’ His contribution to the college goes beyond anything we could describe. I am extremely grateful for the many years of selfless devotion Ed gave the college.”