WesternU President receives community award

Western University of Health Sciences President Philip Pumerantz, PhD, received the “Community Strength Award” from the Pomona Ministry of Economics at the 24th annual City of Pomona Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, May 8, 2008 at the Sheraton Suites Fairplex.

The award is given “in recognition of untiring support in service to the community family of Pomona… The honoree must have demonstrated strength of character, longevity of commitment and a multiplicity of accomplishments which have contributed to the community as measured by the imparting of hope, comfort, motivation and courage given to others,” according to the Pomona Ministry of Economics.

“It’s an honor because their mission as clergy resonates with our mission,” Pumerantz said. “We are both engaged in the same work – our work in the education of healers, their work in spiritual development.”

The Pomona Ministry of Economics provides economic outreach and self-help programs such as employment counseling, securing housing, reducing teenage pregnancy, job training and substance abuse rehabilitation.

“The Bible tells us we should pray for our civic leaders, that we cover our community with a saturation of prayer that things will be well, gang violence will subside and people will live a prosperous and good life,” said Elder Amos Young, event coordinator for Pomona Ministry of Economics.

The event was very well received and very encouraging, he said.

“This was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to acknowledge that everyone has a heart, concern, care and the drive to make a wonderful, growing and prospering community,” Young said.

Guest speakers included Jarron O’Neal, Senior Pastor of Fountain of Love Christian Center; Chris Cotinola, Senior Pastor of Victory Outreach Pomona; and Pomona Mayor Norma J. Torres.