Gayle D. Beebe

Dr. Gayle D. Beebe has served as the eighth president of Westmont College since 2007, leading the nationally ranked Christian liberal arts institution through significant growth, academic innovation, and resilient leadership. Drawing on expertise in theology, philosophy, and strategic management, he has guided major campus expansion, launched new academic programs, and led fundraising efforts.

Known for his calm and faith-centered leadership, Dr. Beebe successfully guided Westmont through the Tea Fire, Thomas Fire, Montecito debris flow, and the COVID-19 pandemic. He is the author of The Crucibles That Shape Us, The Shaping of an Effective Leader, and Longing for God (co-authored with Richard Foster), works that explore leadership, spiritual formation, and vocation.

Before joining Westmont, he served as President of Spring Arbor University and dean of the School of Theology at Azusa Pacific University. He and his wife, Pam, have three married adult children and two grandchildren.