Westmont Magazine Rainy Weather, Sunny Day

Heavy rain forced Commencement inside but didn’t dampen spirits as the college held two services May 3 to accommodate all guests.

Lisa Beamer, wife of 9-11 victim Todd Beamer and author of “Let’s Roll,” the heroic story of United Flight 93, spoke to the graduates. In the days following the 9-11 tragedy, Lisa Beamer became a symbol of hope, faith and grace, appearing first during President Bush’s speech after the attacks, and then on many national television shows. She has established the Todd M. Beamer Foundation to benefit the children of 9-11 victims. She and Todd graduated from Wheaton College in Illinois.

Lord Paul and Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree received the Westmont Medal, which recognizes individuals whose lives embody the principles associated with the Christian character of the college.

The Ridley-Trees have been deeply involved in the Santa Barbara community and have given significant gifts to a wide variety of organizations.

Students honored at the service included: Will Gulley and Juri Otsuka (Dean’s Award); Amanda Sparkman (Dave Dolan Award); Brett Isselhardt and Kerith Marcantonio (Kenneth Monroe Award) and  Keith Luna (Faculty Scholarship Award).