2018–19 Employee Milestones

Dick is the professor who used to teach in shorts and sandals; now he teaches in a coat and slacks. He used to teach traditional students; now he teaches non-traditionalists. He used to organize labor; now he organizes their bosses. He used to teach the problems with capitalism; now he teaches capitalists how to solve problems. He puts students at ease, empathizing with their efforts to juggle jobs and family. Dick has been there.

Dick’s class is a pleasant respite from the hustle of life. He puts students at ease and he makes them laugh. Some mistakenly think Dick is easy until midterms. But be warned: never mistake levity for an easy “A.” His class combines stories with theory. Dick has won the Professor of the Year award more than anyone—a testament to his ability to teach—all the while making economics relevant.

When asked to reflect on his time at Westminster, Jerry mentioned he has appreciated his many opportunities for professional growth and his multiple and varied international travel experiences. But Jerry has perhaps most appreciated his key role over the last 12 years in developing, growing, and managing the project-based programs at Westminster. Students have long appreciated Jerry’s willingness to offer advice and serve as a mentor. Jerry is known for his saying: “At Westminster, each student is our only student,” and he treats every student encounter with that motto. Colleagues credit and value Jerry’s vast institutional knowledge, leadership, and dry sense of humor.

Jerry has many hobbies and interests outside of Westminster but right now he’s focused on one thing: his newborn grandson.

In addition to his years of exemplary work in the classroom, Alan has been recognized with a number of Westminster’s most prestigious awards. In 1998 he won the Manford A. Shaw Publication Award for his novel, The Adventures of Captain Harvey: A Modern Odyssey; in 2002 he won the Gore Excellence in Teaching Award; and in 2012 he was granted the Naomi Weyher Renewal Leave to complete his graphic novel, Blurtseau Lundif—Corsaire Extraordinaire. Alan writes and illustrates The Blurtso Chronicles—a blog that he began in 2009.

In the language department, Alan has always promoted diversity on campus and abroad. He was indispensable in the development of new literature courses for the Spanish major, and in the past three years he has taken a leading role in creating online classes. He now offers multiple sections of the first two semesters of introductory Spanish courses in online format each year. Alan’s commitment to innovation and excellence will be an invaluable asset for Westminster for many years to come.

Sharon is a gracious and welcoming person to new nursing students, making sure they have application materials completed and calming many students' fears while they await an acceptance decision. Sharon is known as the historian for the School of Nursing and has responded to students’ requests for information throughout the years. She cares deeply about the college, the nursing program, and the students and faculty; her dedication has contributed to the success of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences in so many ways.

Outside of work, Sharon enjoys shopping at the local farmers market with her daughter and cooking farm-to-table dishes. She also has two very special granddogs.

Among her many accomplishments at Westminster, Karlyn served as chair of the music program for many years, coordinated the concert series, served on the curriculum committee, directed the student chamber music ensemble, taught in the Honors College, and hired many adjunct music faculty.

Karlyn has been a tremendous role model for music students. She often plays musical examples that serve to inspire her students. Her course preparation is meticulous and she loves seeing students succeed. She also champions their efforts to study the classics, both literary and musical. Karlyn teaches with an inter-disciplinary flair and is passionate about educating the whole person. At the end of the day, one of her greatest joys is cozying up with a good book, a cup of tea, and contemplating the beauty within.

In poetry workshops and individual conferences, Natasha encourages her students to set rigorous standards for their compositions. As the poetry series director, she brings together poet teachers with Westminster students through public readings and events for professional advice. On the diversity committee and as an advocate, she has encouraged marginalized students in self-expression. As former English program chair and leader of faculty learning communities, Natasha has boosted collegiality with her supportive advice—and sometimes with confections of her own creation. Westminster is fortunate to have such a brilliant, dedicated, and creative faculty member.

Throughout his teaching and administrative service, Paul has provided exemplary commitment to the achievement of the college’s goals, a calmness in the face of challenge and adversity, a constant caring for the colleagues he works with, and a workhorse approach to completing projects.

Paul continues to teach and serves as the liaison officer for Westminster’s regional accreditation authority and chair of the faculty senate. As has always been the case, Westminster benefits greatly from the service of Paul Presson.

Ryan has served in countless capacities across campus, including Staff Council and as part of a team that was awarded the Department of Distinction. Ryan is truly one of Westminster’s gems. He grew up on this campus and developed both as a person and as a professional.

Outside of campus, Ryan is a dedicated husband and father who likes hiking, camping, scuba, and board games. Ryan has served on several board of directors for other organizations, including Utah Independent Business Coalition.

Ryan is a skilled troubleshooter and does not back away from even the most difficult challenge. He has even stayed up all night to help on projects. If there is one theme that encapsulates Ryan, it is his unwavering willingness to help any office or colleague.

Vickie obtained a degree in sociology from Westminster while still being able to keep up with the demands of her full-time job. Her deep compassion shows in her service to and love for animals. Over the years, Vickie has sought out and adopted older dogs from shelters to give them a home from which they can live out their remaining years being loved and cared for. She is almost always seen on campus with her two dogs, Katie and Nopa.