Loma Linda University: A Legacy of Notable Alumni
Loma Linda University (LLU), a private Seventh-day Adventist health sciences university in Loma Linda, California, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1905. Founded by Seventh-day Adventists John Burden and Ellen G. White, LLU has grown into a prominent institution with a strong emphasis on health, healing, and hope. With a diverse range of schools and programs, LLU has produced numerous alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields around the world.
LLU's motto, "To make man whole," reflects its commitment to holistic education and service. The university's graduates are known for their dedication to improving the lives of others, whether through healthcare, research, education, or community service. As of June 30, 2020, LLU's endowment stood at $1.04 billion, enabling the university to support its mission and invest in its students and programs.
A Historical Overview
Loma Linda University's journey began in 1905, and it was officially established as The Loma Linda College of Evangelists in 1906. The institution evolved over the years, and in 1961, it was renamed Loma Linda University. Throughout its history, LLU has been committed to providing quality education and adhering to the standards set by accrediting bodies such as the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
In its early years, LLU faced challenges in meeting accreditation requirements for its medical program. However, through the efforts of administrators like Percy T. Magan and support from organizations like the American Medical Association, the university was able to achieve a "B" rating, allowing its medical students to continue their training without interruption.
Today, LLU comprises eight schools, including the schools of Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, and Religion, as well as a Faculty of Graduate Studies. Each school has nurtured its alumni, offering annual events and meetings to foster connections and celebrate their achievements.
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Notable Alumni
Loma Linda University boasts a diverse and accomplished alumni network, with graduates making significant impacts in various fields. Here are some notable alumni who have left their mark on the world:
Healthcare and Medicine:
- Walt Johnson: A professor of surgery, neurosurgery, and public health at Loma Linda University, Johnson is also the founding director of the Center for Global Surgery. He previously led the Emergency and Essential Surgical Care program at the World Health Organization in Geneva. Despite facing a career setback due to carpal tunnel syndrome, Johnson has remained a prominent figure in the medical field.
- Ariel Henry: A Haitian neurosurgeon and politician, Henry served as the acting prime minister of Haiti.
- Paul Nobuo Tatsuguchi: A Japanese surgeon who served in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II.
- Jeffrey Kuhlman: An American medical doctor and former Physician to the President under Barack Obama.
- Ralph Alvarado: An American physician and politician, currently serving as the Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Health.
- Eric Esrailian: An American physician at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, as well as a film producer and community service advocate.
- Michael Cruz: A Guamanian surgeon and former politician who served as the eighth lieutenant governor of Guam.
- Ruth Janetta Temple: An American physician who provided free and affordable healthcare to underserved communities in Los Angeles.
Politics and Public Service:
- Michael Uhlmann: Served as Assistant Attorney General to President Gerald Ford and as a Special Assistant to President Ronald Reagan.
- Jim Wood: An American politician who served as Speaker pro Tempore of the California State Assembly.
- Jim Davis: An American politician and orthodontist who served in the North Carolina General Assembly.
- Bill Emmerson: A former Republican California State Senator.
- Charles Ray Jordan: A Portland City Commissioner and the first African-American city commissioner in Portland, Oregon.
Academia and Research:
- Daniel Solórzano: A social science and comparative education professor at UCLA, where he is also the inaugural director of the Center for Critical Race Studies.
- John Nwangwu: A Nigerian-American public health doctor with expertise in infectious diseases and epidemiology, a consultant at the World Health Organization, and a professor at both Yale University and Southern Connecticut State University.
- Robert G. Picard: An American writer and scholar in the field of media businesses and media policy economics.
- Brian Brock: An American theologian and professor at the University of Aberdeen.
Other Fields:
- Lisa Marie Varon: An American retired professional wrestler, fitness competitor, and bodybuilder, known as Victoria in WWE and Tara in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling.
- Brad Budde: A former professional American football player.
- Sakena Yacoobi: An Afghan activist known for her work promoting access to education for women and children.
- Loree K. Sutton: An American psychiatrist and retired military officer who served as a brigadier general in the United States Army.
- David Hegarty: An American organist and composer.
- Angela Lalas: Chief Financial Officer for Loma Linda University Health.
These alumni represent just a fraction of the many individuals who have benefited from a Loma Linda University education and gone on to make a difference in the world. Their accomplishments demonstrate the university's commitment to producing graduates who are not only skilled professionals but also compassionate and dedicated individuals.
Loma Linda University Health
Many LLU graduates have remained within the Loma Linda University Health system, contributing to its mission of providing comprehensive healthcare services. Angela Lalas, for instance, has served as Chief Financial Officer for Loma Linda University Health since May 2018, overseeing the financial strategy, planning, and reporting for the academic health center. She has played a key role in securing funding for the $1.3 billion Campus Transformation Project, which includes the construction of a new adult hospital and expansion of the Children’s Hospital.
One Loma Linda: A Unified Alumni Network
In an effort to strengthen connections among alumni from all eight schools, Loma Linda University has launched the "One Loma Linda" initiative. This initiative aims to bring together alumni from various disciplines for shared events and activities, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
The centerpiece of the "One Loma Linda" initiative is the Homecoming Weekend, which coincides with the School of Medicine's Annual Postgraduate Convention (APC). This combined event offers a range of activities, including continuing education classes, vespers programs, Sabbath morning programs, and campus tours. By bringing together alumni from different schools, Loma Linda University hopes to create a more unified and vibrant alumni network.
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