College Receives $3 Million Bequest

Westmont has received a $3 million gift from the estate of a former professor and his wife.

Dr. Kenneth Monroe, who died in 1987, and his wife, Peggy, who died in February of this year, left assets of more than $3 million to the college. The money will fund scholarships for Monroe Scholars, up to four exceptional students who receive full-tuition assistance each year. The bequest will also create a new endowed chair in a discipline to be named.

“What an amazing legacy Dr. and Mrs. Monroe have left,” President Stan D. Gaede said. “To be able to provide ongoing support for a distinguished faculty member and some of the very best students — many of whom could not afford to come to Westmont — is a great gift, one for which the college is deeply appreciative.”

Monroe joined the faculty at Westmont in 1945, the year the college moved to Montecito from Los Angeles. His scholarship was broad, and his teaching reflected the breadth of the liberal arts, with a special interest in Mediterranean history and archeology. Students loved Monroe, often returning to campus after graduation to express their appreciation for his care and commitment to their learning experiences. He also served as academic dean and, on two occasions, acted as interim president.

Chancellor David K. Winter, who was president of the college from 1976 to 2001, remembers the Monroes with deep fondness and gratitude for their contributions to Westmont.

“Ken and Peggy Monroe were exceptional people,” Winter said. “They were leaders in many local organizations, including the First Presbyterian Church, as well as on campus at Westmont. He was a first-rate scholar and professor and was loved and respected by students and colleagues as well. They were warm personal friends to Helene and me, and we miss them very much.”

When he retired, Monroe received the honorary titles of professor emeritus and trustee emeritus. The college named Monroe Dining Room in Kerr Student Center in honor of the couple in 1985.

“What a wonderful gift from a family that has played such a tremendous part in Westmont’s history,” said Steve Baker, vice president for advancement. “We are deeply grateful for the wise and prudent stewardship of their resources — and for their great confidence in Westmont.”