CLU presents annual Inspiration Awards

(THOUSAND Oaks, Calif. – Dec. 19, 2013) A student and an administrator at California Lutheran University received Inspiration Awards for encouraging intellectual and spiritual growth and promoting service and leadership.

Malina Keaton, a theology and Christian leadership major from Castro Valley, received the student award during the Dec. 12 Sankta Lucia Festival ceremony. She helps coordinate the weekly Common Ground services and is a member of the Lord of Life Student Congregation. This year Keaton received a Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship to study how various Christian denominations articulate views on such issues as sex, marriage and homosexuality.

Bill Rosser, vice president for student affairs and dean of students, received the staff award. The Westlake Village resident has served in his role since 1997, when he came to CLU after 11 years in the same position at Augsburg College in Minnesota. He has supported many student leaders, provided guidance to those who were struggling and mentored several former employees who have gone on to serve at universities throughout the country. The U.S. Marine Corps veteran plans to retire in July after a four-decade career in higher education.

A university committee selects the recipients of the annual award. An alumni family initiated the tradition in 1979, establishing an endowment to provide undisclosed cash awards each year.