Pepperdine University alumnus and longtime administrator Chris Sangster died at his home at the school’s Malibu campus on Feb. 14. He was 59. Sangster had been battling an extended illness, university officials said.
“I am touched by the sterling qualities of Chris’ life, and touched by the dignity and serenity of his death,” Pepperdine President Andy Benton said. “Such, I suppose, is the nature of one with a deep and abiding faith. His smile and upbeat approach to life will never leave my memory of him. Pepperdine has lost a great example and friend.”
Sangster graduated from Seaver College in 1975, a year ahead of Claudia, his college sweetheart. The couple met on the first day the Malibu campus opened in 1972 and were married in Stauffer Chapel in 1976.
Sangster worked from May 1975 to June 1977 in Pepperdine’s Admission Office. He and his wife left Pepperdine in 1977 to pursue careers elsewhere. The Sangsters returned to the university in January 1993, with Sangster as director of Seaver alumni and Claudia as planned giving counsel.
Sangster subsequently was named director of advancement and alumni in August 2001. Two months later he was named assistant dean of advancement and alumni relations for Seaver College and George Pepperdine College, while Claudia served Pepperdine in several different roles before becoming director of philanthropy services at myCFO.
The Sangsters maintained a high profile at Pepperdine. They were frequently seen attending athletic events, meeting with alumni, reconnecting with classmates and faculty at Homecoming, and keeping close ties with GPC graduates and their families.
A scholarship fund has been set up in Sangster’s honor. Donations may be sent to Chris Sangster Scholarship Fund, Advancement Gifts and Records, Pepperdine University, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90263-4152.