The John F. and Celeste M. Loughman Scholarship
Celeste Loughman, former professor of English. Loughman worked as a professor for 26 years until her retirement in 1998 and served two terms as chairwoman of the English Department. She received the university’s Distinguished Service Award in 1980.
After Celeste and her husband, John’s death, the Loughman estate transferred $300,000 to the Westfield State foundation to create an endowed scholarship fund to support students majoring in English. The scholarship will be given annually to a sophomore, junior or senior majoring in English who demonstrates academic achievement and financial need.
In 2012, the living room in the Scanlon Banquet hall was renamed the Loughman Living Room in their honor. Their relative, Doris Youmell (pictured), was there to cut the ribbon at the 2012 Donor Reception.
Impact
“In just one month I have learned so much about Hawaiian history, culture, and literature. My dream to study here may never have come to fruition without the Celeste M. Loughman Scholarship and I am overwhelmed with gratitude!”
-Aimee Funk ’19, English
“I would like to take this time to thank the Celeste M. Loughman Scholarship from the bottom of my heart for the generous opportunity of knowledge and improving the world.”
-Abigail Taylor ’19, English
“My time at Westfield State has shown me how much I truly desire to teach English. I know that I still have so much to learn, but I have learned that knowledge is power and that words can change the world.”
-Elizabeth Potter ’19, English
“My dream has always been to pursue English studies. As a Westfield State University student, I am proud of the knowledge and experience I have gained through studying it here. "
-Alexis Reder ’20, English
“By awarding me the Celeste M. Loughman Scholarship, you have not only given me a chance to express how my studies in English have changed the way I look at the world, but have eased the financial burden of college and allowed me to pay attention to the most essential aspect of higher education, learning.”
-Anthony Duval ’21, English
“Receiving this scholarship has not only raised my self-esteem but allows me to be able to continue my higher education with less stress about financial worries. You have helped me to further my education, which is one of the most important parts of my life and means the world to me.”
-Sadie Petta ’23, English
“I firmly believe in the value of language, the power of words, and the fruitfulness of fiction. Thank you for upholding the value of English studies by providing funding for myself and others to pursue them.”
-Victoria Nesmelova ’23, English
“As I continue on with my education at Westfield State University, your thoughtful gift will serve as a reminder to not only work hard and maintain my academics but also as an example of how impactful a helping hand can be. These moments of humanity help me see the beauty in the world and grounds me in the understanding of how important it is to foster a strong foundation of compassion for those around us.”
-Madeline Borowski, English