Members of our CATLab team have a wide range of passions outside of their work with technology. In keeping with Westmont’s liberal arts tradition, CATLab prioritizes encouraging students to be well-rounded and providing space for reflection and art. Read on to hear from a CATLab student and staff member about how making music affects their lives.
By Zak Landrum; Adapted from 2022 CATLab Magazine
Know Your Why: Purpose First
During his post-doctoral work at the University of Pittsburgh, physics professor Ben Carlson mentored both under-graduate and graduate students. When they asked to work with him in the summer, he looked for suitable projects. “After two summers, I learned what was appropriate and helpful for students,” he says. “Two of my students at Pitt were offered ATLAS papers, which is significant because people in the collaboration — especially undergraduates — don’t necessarily get credit. My students did enough, so their names appear with the collaborators.
by Kelly Vivanco '24
Ryley Oroku, Westmont’s warm-spirited Business Process Analyst and API Programmer, embodies the CATLab core value of Commitment. Ryley has worked with Westmont’s technology for the last seven years. As a member of the first-ever CATLab and a 2020 Westmont alumnus, Ryley gained development operations skills which he uses today as he accomplishes vital data conversion for the college’s major student information system replacement project.
Following Commencement 2023, the Westmont College Choir and Chamber Singers embark on a nine-day tour to Tokyo, Japan — the first international choir tour since the COVID-19 pandemic. Led by Daniel Gee ’13, assistant professor of music and director of choral activities, the choirs’ itinerary includes joint concerts with Japanese collegiate ensembles, including those from Waseda University and the Tokyo College of Music, as well as performances at Tokyo Union Church, Tokyo Christian University and the Christian Academy of Japan.