Fall 2021

Western’s new Marine and Coastal Sciences Program already has a deep history
Some say you can never go home again, but that's just what I've done.
Scientists are looking for signs that water used to flow on the dry, dusty planet
After his son died of E. coli poisoning, Darin Detwiler has never stopped working to protect our food supply
Alma Clark Glass’s family helps open Western’s newest residence hall
Meet Western alumna Val Thomas-Matson’s empathetic TV alter-ego, as she showcases preschoolers of color on her children’s show ‘Look, Listen & Learn’
Can computer science save the whales? Alum Gracie Ermi is trying—and she wants more young women to follow her into unexpected STEM careers.
NSF-funded grant programs have resulted in more women and other underrepresented groups in computer science and math
Video: A reunion of four marine scientists who all got their start at Shannon Point
Students who wanted to catch a ride home for the holidays in the 1970’s would check out the Ride Share/Commuter Car Pool Board in the Viking Union to see who was traveling their way.
Western is planning two in-person ceremonies to celebrate summer and fall 2021 graduates
The stories in this edition underscore the importance of being with our students through every step on their journeys.
Anyone in the Western community can select attire from the Career Closet to start building their professional wardrobes.
The biggest ever Give Day raised funds for scholarships, clubs, academic departments and student support
Kendi will be the virtual keynote speaker at the event Jan. 17, 2022
Western students, faculty and staff are vaccinated at higher rates than the surrounding Bellingham community

Class Notes

Barbara L. Engman - 1993

Obituaries
Barbara L. Engman, 71, a vocal performer and choir director, on Sept. 14, 2021, in Bellingham.

Ryszard Dylczyk - ST

Obituaries
Ryszard Dylczyk, 82, a retired custodian, on Sept. 12, 2020, in Radomsko, Poland, where he had been born. Before moving to the U.S., Ryszard was a leader in the Polish Solidarity movement, for which he was imprisoned twice, and helped work for the election of Lech Walesa.

Nancy Anne Bjerke - 1990

Obituaries
Nancy Anne Bjerke, 62, on Sept. 19, 2021, in Everson.