Discover how Park University in 1942, made the bold move to enroll Japanese-American students being held in relocation centers and internment camps. Dr. Westcott of Park U will discuss this history.
As president of Park University (then College) in 1942, Dr. William Lindsay Young made the bold decision to enroll Japanese-American students who were being held with their families in relocation centers and internment camps. The mayor of Parkville strongly objected, as did many neighbors and some alumni. But the vast majority of students, and even First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, sent letters supporting the college’s brave stance.
Dr. Timothy C. Westcott has over 30 years of experience in secondary and higher education. He is currently Associate Professor of History, Park University Associate Archivist, Chair, Department of History, Political Science, and Interdisciplinary Studies, and Director of the George S. Robb Centre for the Study of the Great War. He joined the faculty and staff at Park University in 1999 and has held numerous positions over the past 20 years.
Westcott is a veteran, having served in the U.S. Marine Corps overseas and stateside with the 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines, Marine Corps Reserve Center in Omaha, Ne., and at the Marine Corps Reserve Support Center in Overland Park, KS. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6). During his Marine Corps service, he was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal twice, the Good Conduct Medal twice, Meritorious Mast twice, and Certificate of Commendation. He was nationally recognized as the U.S. Marine Corps Reservist of the Year in 1986, and is a recipient of the Patriot Award, Department of Defense.
Westcott holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Secondary Education from Avila University (Kansas City, MO); Master of Arts degree in History from the University of Missouri-Kansas City; and doctoral degree in History from the Union Institute and University (Cincinnati, OH).
AGE GROUP: | Teens (6th - 12th Grade) | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | History & Genealogy | Exhibits |
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