When Susan G. Werkema ’81 passed away in March 2019, her family was determined to honor her and help future Seattle Pacific University students.
A sociology major at SPU, Susan added a visual art minor to her academic load to nurture her lifelong passion for creativity. Even after she became a licensed massage therapist, Susan continued to foster her passion for art.
Susan was the daughter of GORDON WERKEMA, former SPU executive vice president and former president of the Christian College Consortium, and Jackie Werkema. The Werkema family — led by Susan’s brothers Mark and GORDON WERKEMA ’80 (Medallion recipient and former Seattle Pacific Foundation board member) — established the Susan Werkema Memorial Art Scholarship Endowment to honor Susan’s legacy.
The family hopes to provide a path for students to nurture a love of art alongside another discipline — just like Susan had. The scholarship will be awarded to a student minoring in art each year.
To contribute to the Susan Werkema Memorial Art Scholarship Endowment, visit spu.edu/givenow and note this endowment in the designation, or call the Office of Endowments and Gift Planning directly at 206-281-2702.
