Gerard Circle Giving Story
Richard and Julie Westin
Year Joined Gerard Circle: 2019
Connection to UnityPoint Health: Julie’s affiliation with Allen Hospital began in 1979 as a student in the Allen Medical Technology program. After a year of internship, graduated from University of Northern Iowa in August of 1980. Offered a position in the laboratory and began working as a generalist in September of 1980.
Employment History: Julie - In the early years a generalist in the Allen Hospital lab, rotating through all of the departments. Later working primarily in Microbiology and Special Chemistry. In 1997, offered the Microbiology Supervisor position (now called Team Lead). Retired in April 2023 after 43 years at Allen.
Julie saw many changes throughout the years. Many tests were performed by hand or one at a time in the early years. Later, as technology developed, testing became more machine based. Microbiology is one of the few departments that has remained more hands on, often with decisions made by a technologist.
Richard - graduated from University of Northern Iowa in 1975 with a degree in Physical Education. He worked as a Professional Firefighter for the City of Cedar Falls, retiring in 2011.
Why are you inspired to give back to the Allen Foundation and give so generously to local health care?
Allen Hospital has been a huge part of our lives through Julie’s education and throughout her career. We feel it is important to give back to the healthcare facility who gave so much to us throughout the years. We have been blessed with the healthcare we have received over the years not only for us, but for our family.
Now as a member of the Alumni Board of Directors, Julie sees an even greater need and the Westin’s are more aware to give back to the Foundation. They see so many good things on the horizon for Allen from the Simulation Lab expansion as well as scholarships for students at Allen College to the Child Protection Center expansion, just to name a few.
What does being a member of Gerard Circle mean to you?
Being a member of Gerard Circle was a long time goal of ours. Now since we are members, we are humbled and honored to be part of this group of like-minded individuals. As an entire body, the Gerald Circle members can and have made a considerable impact on Allen Hospital, Allen College and our community. We are grateful to be part of the growth and service.
Why is philanthropy in our community/workplace important to you?
We truly believe it is so important to give back anyway you are able, whether financially or by the gift of your time. We have been big believers in giving back to our place of worship, our community as volunteers, our scuba diving families in Honduras and of course, Allen Foundation. We hope that through this type of giving, we have been able to make a small impact and the world around us a bit better.