A Look Back: Patrons of Science

By Susan Panak

In 1992, the Science Center, first dedicated in 1971, was renamed as the “Whiteman-Gibbs Science Center.” At the time of the event, a local newspaper stated, “For generations to come, perhaps the names will take on the meaning of true service even though the namesakes are no longer there in person.” Those namesakes were Dr. Eldon Whiteman and Dr. Leslie Gibbs.

Eldon Whiteman (HS ‘33, JC ‘35) served in many capacities over 35 years: as a biology instructor, as developer and annual leader of the Spiritual Life Retreat Program and as chair of the Natural Science Department. Whiteman’s service to Spring Arbor came into the

spotlight when he and his wife, Lorraine Whiteman (HS ‘35 JC ‘37 SAC ‘65), received the Co-Alumni of the Year Award in 1977. Many friends wrote letters acknowledging the ways that the Whitemans enriched them and the Spring Arbor community.

Leslie Gibbs (JC ’50) was known on campus as a devoted teacher and a gentleman – a person who embodied the Spring Arbor University Concept. He was renowned for encouraging his students to succeed and not accept failure. To that end, he spent many hours in his office tutoring students who would later become doctors, professors, and researchers. Although his doctoral research was excellent, and he was a distinguished professor, Dr. Gibbs didn’t like to talk about himself, and instead preferred glowing discussions about his wife, children and grandchildren. His generosity of time and spirit were well-regarded among the community.

Today, the Whiteman-Gibbs Science Center houses many departments. In addition to the Science Department, the Department of Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics and the Department of Theology both call it home. Additionally, a renovation funded by the Weatherwax Foundation has provided a state-of-the-art microbiology laboratory and new equipment. Fall 2017 was the first semester they were available, and students and faculty
made good use of the lab and equipment. This lab, and the Whiteman-Gibbs Science Center, will continue preparing SAU students for success after graduation for years to come.