Heritage Snapshot Part 253: The Origin of the Loma Linda University Motto

LOMA LINDA>> Loma Linda University didn't get around to expressing itself in motto form until after it had passed its half-century mark. That's not unusual when one considers that from its frail beginnings in 1905, the institution struggled for several years to determine its purposes and curriculums and to settle on its first name, College of Medical Evangelists (CME). The process that supplied a motto began with the planning of a yearlong observance. The CME administration, supported by its Trustees, proposed that in a December 3, 1953 action, "the fiftieth anniversary of CME be celebrated in 1955." A seven-member committee was appointed to plan the events and programs. William Frederick Norwood, PhD., then CME Vice President and Professor of Cultural Medicine, chaired the committee that met regularly throughout 1954. One of their early actions was conducting a student-employee contest to suggest ideas for a theme that would "tell the story of CME" for its first fifty years. The contest was held during April, 1954. Three prizes offered totaled $50. The winning themes would become the basis for the committee's study and final selection. The winners, all CME employees, were featured in the May issue of The Voice of CME Employees. At the first Centenary Gala on Feb. 11, 2005, the story of the theme was prominently featured. Richard Hart, MD, at the time Chancellor of Loma Linda University, outlined its development. “In 1955 the committee planning the Fiftieth Anniversary chose as the theme of the celebration the phrase, 'To Make Man Whole.' This theme caught on and was used enthusiastically and promoted in a variety of ways throughout the year in speeches, sermons, as the title of a film, in editorial and journal articles, and even as a hymn. It was seen as a restatement of the purpose of the college, suggesting a partnership with the Great Physician. The expression adds dimension to the practice of the healing arts, showing that our hope is to restore people to wholeness, that they may more fully enjoy relationships with others and communion with God.” Dr. Hart then brought on stage Mr. Milton Murray, the former Director of Public Relations from 1949 to 1960, a member of CME’s Fiftieth Anniversary Planning Committee, and one who knew first-hand the process of finding those words. Murray related how the committee concluded early in their discussions that they should have a theme for the year. He told how Frank A. Moran (who eventually became one of Loma Linda’s first city councilmen) asked the question, “Well what would you all think of 'To Make Man Whole?' The committee immediately adopted it. Later, in December 1956, the Board of Trustees and administration adopted it as the institution’s motto. “Thank you, Milton,” acknowledged Dr. Hart, “We’re honored to have you represent those who served our institution well by helping us realize so concisely the focus of our mission and endeavor. I want to present you with this special award—the Centennial Recognition Award — that acknowledges the unique contribution you made to our heritage.”