30th Anniversary History Book

25 t h A n n i v e r s a r y F o u nd e r s Da y Ho n o r e e s

Quite simply, Beacon College was founded on the hopes and vision of people like Patricia and Peter Latham, who dared to dream of a college dedicated to serving students with learning disabilities. To others, it seemed an unreachable goal. Both successful attorneys and the parents of a son with a learning disability, the Lathams recognized that the higher education needs of students who learn differently were not being met. Passionate about the need to provide a college education with the right academic environment for their son and other students with learning disabilities, Patricia and Peter formed a

parent team to establish Beacon College. When the College was founded in 1989, the Board of Trustees consisted of just three members — the Lathams and Marcia Glines, Beacon’s first president. Together, the trio navigated the complex legal and business maze involved in establishing a college, providing the crucial oversight needed for a strong foundation. They also played a key role in choosing the right location, negotiating with community and property owners, and recognizing the potential of the site for future college growth. They even helped choose the college’s name.

Patricia and Peter Latham

Dr. Williams — whose daughter Noi is an alumna of Beacon College — served with distinction for many years as a member of our Board of Trustees, including six as its chair. His time with Beacon was that critical era after the college’s founding during its first major stage of growth. This is the period when the original vision of an idea or cause expands to encompass even more and to dare to see even further. Dr. Williams was the perfect choice to help expand Beacon’s vision. He has led a life in academia as a teacher and researcher with European universities and the World Health Organization in Africa. He has been a pioneer in investment firms and biotechnology. (Pictured left, with his daughter Noi, and Bonnie Lefoley)

Dr. Richard O. Williams

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