aerial view of Western's campus at night facing northwest, with golden lights surrounded by dark trees

College of Business and Economics welcomes alumni entrepreneurs for community event, April 22

As part of its 50th anniversary celebration, CBE is hosting a free community lecture and networking event at Bellingham’s Chuckanut Bay Distillery

Stephan Aarstol, left, and Kelly Andrews.

Western Washington University’s College of Business and Economics (CBE) is turning 50 this year. To celebrate five decades of educating future business leaders and engaged community members, the college has several events in the works, starting with a free community event at Chuckanut Bay Distillery on April 22, featuring two distinguished alumni guest speakers.  

The 50th Anniversary Community Lecture: A Conversation with CBE Alumni Entrepreneurs takes place on Wednesday, April 22, from 5-7 p.m., at Chuckanut Bay Distillery’s Ballroom event space (1311 Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham). The event opens with a networking social hour at 5 p.m., with complimentary food, a cash bar, and a chance to connect with fellow attendees and guest speakers before the main program at 6 p.m.    

Join CBE for an engaging discussion on entrepreneurship, innovation, and community impact with Stephan Aarstol (’96, Bachelor of Arts in Finance, Marketing and Decision Sciences), founder of Tower Paddle Boards and author of “The Five-Hour Workday,” and Kelly Andrews (’94, Bachelor of Science in Biology), founder of Fairhaven Health and majority owner of Chuckanut Bay Distillery.  

“We are thrilled to mark our 50th year by engaging the Bellingham community in an inspiring conversation with two alumni who exemplify CBE’s values and entrepreneurial spirit,” said Deanna Kennedy, dean of WWU’s College of Business and Economics. “This is a unique opportunity to learn from their journeys and celebrate our shared commitment to innovation, professionalism and community impact.”  

More CBE 50th Anniversary Events  

The anniversary festivities will continue with a Fall Business Summit in Seattle on Nov. 12, offering more opportunities for meaningful dialogue, networking, and professional development for the business community.  

The CBE Viking Classic Golf Tournament at Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club on October 2 will round out the year’s celebratory events. Businesses and individuals are invited to sponsor, put together a team, and play a round of golf alongside CBE alumni, faculty, and staff. Proceeds from the tournament will support scholarships and resources for CBE’s new direct freshman admit program, helping to provide greater access and opportunities for future business and economics students. Learn more and register for the tournament here or become a golf sponsor here. Contact Kati Johnson at Kati.Johnson@wwu.edu with questions.