The Westgate Board is pleased to announce the appointment of James Friesen as Westgate Principal beginning in Summer 2022. The Search Committee, made up of Board Members and a staff representative, began the process of finding Bob Hummelt’s replacement in fall of 2021. Applications were received until December 31, then vetted by the Committee. The interview process began in January, with James being the lead candidate. The Board unanimously accepted the Search Committee’s recommendation on January 24.
James Friesen has been an integral part of the Westgate community since 1992. He has taught in the area of English Language Arts, Math and Christian Studies. He has led many a study tour to the Middle East, organized the hosting of students from I’billin, Israel, ran the tech booth at plays and musicals, coached soccer and basketball and most recently served as Vice Principal for the past 4+ years. James is an alumni of Rosthern Junior College and the former Canadian Mennonite Bible College. He is an active member at Charleswood Mennonite Church.
The Westgate Board is looking forward to his leadership in this next season of Westgate Mennonite Collegiate. We believe he will be an excellent leader who will be supported and respected by staff, students, and the wider community. We ask for your continued prayers for James and the school in the months and years ahead.
“I applied for this position because I love this school and I want to take an active role in its future. Throughout my years here, I have truly seen God at work in the lives of our staff and students, and I have come to believe in this school’s unique identity, its character formed by a strong connection to the global church found in the particular vision of its constituency churches.” – James Friesen