Our history

In September 2021, The Westlund Center’s benefactor, Laura Westlund (1943-2023), was diagnosed with terminal cancer. She was a lifelong runner and community activist, and shocked by this diagnosis. After considerable thought, she arranged with her attorney for the establishment of a private charitable trust with all her assets serving as a fund for a community-based mental health service associated with a college or university. In 2022, Laura decided on a collaborative arrangement with the Department of Social Work at California State University, Northridge, CA (CSUN) and the Greater Northridge community. Her stated wish was for the establishment of a unique mental health services program for this community. Laura lost her year-long cancer battle on Thursday, February 23, 2023. Exercising her self-determination right, she took advantage of Washington State's Death with Dignity law and transitioned peacefully at home, surrounded by friends and neighbors on a sun-filled afternoon. 

The Westlund Center at CSUN will continue her decades-long commitment to community services.

Thank you, Laura Westlund.