Brown College to Award Honorary Degree to Connie Wester
Employee of 47 years accepts degree at spring commencement

MENDOTA HEIGHTS, MINN. (April 19, 2006) — Brown College today announced that long-time employee Connie Wester will receive an honorary degree at the spring commencement on April 19.

Wester has been a part of Brown College for 47 years, longer than the college founders Richard and Helen Brown. She has fulfilled several other roles throughout the years, including receptionist to founder Richard Brown, accounts payable, accounts receivable, human resources, payroll and mail supervisor.

“We value the services that Connie has provided to Brown,” said Brown College president, Dr. Alan Stutts. “She’s been an
inspiration to many students, faculty and staff and has truly set an example for all of us by always believing in Brown College.”

She has helped several students from all walks of life. In fact, a letter recently written to Wester by Nebraska Senator Chuck
Hagel stated, “I remember you collecting my tuition, as well as taking pity on a young Nebraska boy with limited ability!”

Wester is the third person to receive this honor. Others include Roy Finden and Erroll Hauck, both former faculty members
of the broadcasting department.

“It came as a complete shock to me,” said Wester. “I was speechless when Dr. Stutts made the announcement. It’s a real honor.”

In her spare time, Wester enjoys spending time with her three grandchildren and participating in the church choir.

The criteria for this honor includes but is not limited to a person who has dedicated much of his or her life to Brown
College while having a positive affect on those with which he or she interacts. The procedure begins with the board of
trustees nominating a faculty or staff member and ends with Dr. Stutts’ approval and degree presentation.

About Brown
Brown College is proud to be celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2006. It was founded as The American Institute of the Air by Richard and Helen Brown in 1946 and quickly became one of the most highly recognized radio broadcasting schools in the nation. Adding computer electronics and television production programs in 1954, the name changed to Brown Institute. Continued growth in programs and degree offerings followed, and in 2001 the Brown Institute became Brown College. Today, the college offers more than 13 programs in various fields and continues to evolve to meet the needs of students and the demand of the marketplace. For more information please visit www.browncollege.edu.

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