“Surgere Tentamus” echoes in the halls of Westridge School. It means “We strive to rise.” This motto encapsulates the spirit of this Pasadena institution. Westridge School has been shaping young women since 1913.
Westridge School began with a novel idea. Founder Mary Lowther Ranney believed girls should prepare for college. This was unusual for the time. Most girls did not pursue higher education then. Her vision quickly gained traction. The school started in Ranney’s home. But overwhelming registration soon required a larger space. Westridge then moved to its current Madeline Drive location.
Today Westridge School spans three divisions. Lower school includes grades 4 to 6. Middle school covers grades 7 and 8. Upper school encompasses grades 9 through 12. The school now enrolls around 550 girls. Westridge maintains a 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio.
The campus boasts a rich architectural heritage. The main building dates back to 1923. Marston VanPelt & Maybury designed it. It houses classrooms and administrative offices. You will also find a technology center there.
Herrick Quadrangle showcases historic and modern designs. The Joan Irvine Smith Academic Research Center stands here. Also the Braun Music Center that features the Howard S. Swan Choral Hall. Frederick L. Roehrig designed the Braun Music Center originally. It was a private gymnasium and theater. Henry Dreyfuss added a larger stage in 1958.
Whitney R. Smith designed three other significant buildings. These are the Seeley G. Mudd Science Building, the Laurie and Susan Frank Art Studio and the Hoffman Gymnasium. The Richard N. Frank Athletic Field and Ranney Lawn provide recreational space.
Westridge completed a building program in 1997. Pica & Sullivan Architects designed the Marjorie May Braun Science Building and the Karsh Family Science Garden. These spaces cater to Lower and Middle School students. In 2000, Westridge dedicated the Anne F. and James F. Rothenberg Humanities Center. It houses classrooms, art studios and a technology lab.
Madeline Court unified the north and south campuses in 2004. The Rokus Athletic Complex followed in 2005. Tiger soccer and softball teams now host games on these fields. Dance classes take place in Brown Studio. Athletes use the Studenmund weight-training room.
The Fran Norris Scoble Performing Arts Center opened in 2005. It includes a 600-seat auditorium and the Wagener Black Box Theater. There is also the Seiter Family Amphitheater.
Pitcairn House is the oldest building on campus. Greene and Greene designed it in 1906. This California Bungalow houses business and communication offices.
Westridge offers many student groups. Clubs range from Alliance to Young Republicans. Affinity groups include the Black Student Union and LGBTQ Alliance. The Westridgettes are the school’s cheer squad. They wear green skirts adorned with puffy paint.
Discovery Week offers experiential learning. Students take studies outside the classroom. They may travel to different places. Lower School combines hands-on learning with local day trips. Middle School students engage in outdoor experiences. Upper School students can participate in international service trips.
Westridge alumnae have achieved remarkable success. Julia Child became a celebrated chef. Sophia Bush is a well-known actress. Lauren Gibbs won an Olympic silver medal in bobsledding. Lena Alfi is CEO of the Malala Fund.
Westridge’s motto “Surgere Tentamus” inspires students to strive for excellence. The school’s commitment to girls’ education has made a lasting impact. The Westridge School continues to empower young women to rise.