100 Years Young: Former Westminster Staff Member Bernell Hogan Shares Her Secret to a Long Life

Bernell Hogan started working at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, in 1961.

During her career in the Office of Admissions, Hogan used shorthand and dictation. She attributes her success in these areas to her amazing coworkers who supported her throughout her journey. She says, “Westminster was just like a family. Everyone helped one another.”

Hogan was born in August 1922 and grew up in Salem, Missouri. When asked what the secret to a long life is, Hogan exclaims, “Always be cautious, and don’t take chances!”

With Hogan’s many years of life experience, she says the biggest lesson you must learn is to get along with people who have different opinions than you.

Hogan fondly remembers her time working for Tyke Yates, former Dean of Students from 1965 to 1969 and Director of Alumni and Parent Relations from 1970 to 1985. “He was such a nice man and was amazing to work for,” she recalls.

Hogan was a working mother and took a break from her career a few times during her 25 years at Westminster, but she always came back because she couldn’t stay away.

At the age of 65, Hogan retired from the College and the best job she ever had.

She has had a long life filled with memories of family and friends. Hogan met her late husband at the roller rink when she was 18. They were married for 59 years before he passed away. She has two sons. Her younger son, Steven Hogan, is an alumnus from the Class of 1975.