THE WHOLE BIZ

Raytheon – the leading maker of American weaponry – has been
rated one of the best places to work by the Human Rights Campaign,
the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender rights
association. The company – which grossed a total of $21.9 billion
in 2005 for its defense technology and production of stealth
aircraft, among other things – reports being delighted to be
recognized for its “long-term commitment to building a diverse and
inclusive environment.”

Santa Barbara County Superintendent of Schools Bill Cirone
(pictured) was named the chairperson of the National Teachers
Network Board (NTNB) earlier this week. In assuming leadership of
the five-member board – composed of educators and business leaders
from across the country – Cirone will play an important role in
continuing the nonprofit’s 25-year tradition of connecting new and
veteran teachers, developing grant ideas for businesses,
encouraging professional development, and offering online
support.

Westmont College announced that it received a donation of $75
million, the second largest gift to a liberal arts college ever.
The donor, who wished to remain anonymous, said only that he wishes
to be seen as a friend of the college who believes in its mission
as a liberal arts school “rooted in the historic Christian faith.”
Chancellor David K. Winter said the gift will “allow us to build
and endow the facilities that will enable us to secure our place
among the finest liberal arts schools in the nation.”