Alumni Honors

Established in 2013 and endowed by the Class of 1966, the award recognizes an individual who exemplifies Westminster’s mission and core values of community, character, balance, and involvement.

Eve was shocked and grateful upon learning she had received the Distinguished Alumni Award. “When I opened Elaine’s email, I nearly fell off my chair!” she says, calling the honor “singular and momentous.” Despite her relatively short time at Westminster, she feels deeply impacted by the school, acknowledging that much of her success is due to her experiences there.

Her memories of Westminster are filled with warmth and nostalgia. She recalls lighthearted moments, like sharing donuts and pizza with Mr. Mears during Latin class, as well as more profound experiences such as participating in the Chorale and portraying Aunt Em in The Wiz. Even simple pleasures, like the gospel choir performance at the Centennial Center and the infamous vats of ice cream in the dining hall, remain vivid.

Eve’s early days at Westminster were not without challenge. Arriving from Scotland in 1990 as an English Speaking Union student, she struggled with homesickness and loneliness but turned this adversity into a defining moment. “Westminster gave me the freedom to be anyone,” she says. Embracing this opportunity, she decided to be “fabulous.” The lessons of grit and grace she learned at Westminster have stayed with her throughout her life.

After Westminster, Eve went on to study Theology at Durham University. Her career has spanned roles with the Church of England, Deloitte, and an MBA and PhD focused on leadership, economics, and theology. She also taught leadership at Ashridge Business School and wrote several books on economics, leadership, and artificial intelligence during a career break to raise her twin daughters.

Eve’s career reached new heights when she became the first female chairman of Gordonstoun, the school attended by members of the British royal family. Her leadership at Gordonstoun earned her an OBE in 2023, awarded by the King himself. She also served as the Third Church Estates Commissioner for England, overseeing finances and governance for the Church of England. Eve has held interim leadership roles at the Royal Society of Edinburgh and the Carnegie Trust for the Universities of Scotland and currently serves as executive chair of the Woodard Corporation, a network of schools across England and Wales.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Eve remains deeply connected to her family and the world of education. She finds great fulfillment spending time with her husband and two daughters, who, despite her decorated career, still want to know, “Am I cool or not?”

Her bond with Westminster has endured over the years, especially after reconnecting with alumni during Mr. Eckerson’s philosophy class during the COVID lockdown. She values the diversity of careers and life paths among Westminster graduates, noting that curiosity and a love of learning unite them.

Finally, Eve expresses deep gratitude to Mr. Eckerson, who inspired her both during her time at Westminster and beyond. His example of lifelong learning, humility, and generosity continues to influence Eve’s approach to leadership and life.