Ignite Humanities: Class of ’71 Fund

History:

The Ignite Humanities: Class of ’71 Fund was created by members of the W.F. West High School Class of 1971 to spark curiosity, creativity, and cultural exploration in Chehalis students. Inspired by their own formative experiences at W.F. West High School—and motivated by a desire to give today’s students the same chance to think deeply, ask big questions, and see the world through new perspectives—the Class of ’71 established this fund to ensure support for humanities enrichment at W.F. West.

The fund’s first major initiative is the Ignite Humanities Lab, a two‑day summer workshop led by W.F. West teachers for incoming freshmen and sophomores. The Lab invites students to explore literature, history, philosophy, and the arts through hands‑on activities, collaborative learning, and encounters with guest educators. As the program grows, the Class of ’71 envisions expanding opportunities for students to engage with the humanities both inside and beyond the classroom.

Rooted in gratitude for the teachers and community that shaped them, the Class of ’71 created this fund as a legacy gift—one that will continue opening doors for future generations of Chehalis students to discover the power and possibility of the humanities.

Purpose:

The Ignite Humanities: Class of ’71 Fund was established to support humanities enrichment opportunities for students at W.F. West High School. Created by alumni of the Class of 1971, the fund encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and cultural exploration through programs like the Ignite Humanities Lab, helping students engage more deeply with subjects such as literature, history, philosophy, and the arts.