Westmont Magazine Westra Scholarship Supports Women
With a gift of $100,000 from the estate of the late Dorothy L. Westra, a former professor of music at the University of California, Santa Barbara, Westmont has established an endowed scholarship for outstanding women students who demonstrate talent in and dedication to the creative and performing arts. Her nephew, Christopher Derick, made the decision to give the bequest to Westmont after reviewing proposals from two other institutions.
“I believe my aunt would be very pleased that Westmont is receiving this gift from her estate, particularly since, over the years, the Dorothy Westra Scholarship will make the financial difference for dozens of talented young women who want to pursue their education at an outstanding independent college,” he explains.
In addition to teaching at UCSB, Professor Westra performed as an experienced vocalist, organist, and choirmaster. She also composed sacred music.