For Everything There Is a Season

Book excerpt: On the anniversary of his seventieth college reunion, Jack Scott shares his inspirational life story. Born in the dusty town of Sweetwater, Texas, Jack seemed destined for an ordinary life. Raised in a religiously devout family, he followed a common path for students in the 1950s, attending a private Christian college where he met his wife, Lacreta. Their loving marriage continued for sixty-six years, until Lacreta's passing in 2021. During his early preaching career, Jack was the minister for the Church of Christ in New Haven, Connecticut. After earning a master's degree in divinity from Yale Divinity School, Jack joined the faculty at Pepperdine College in Los Angeles. While at Pepperdine, he earned his PhD in American history from Claremont Graduate University. Following the school's move to Malibu, Jack transitioned to numerous roles, including Dean of Instruction at Orange Coast College, President of Cypress College, and finally President of Pasadena City College. Jack's life has been a testament to resilience, marked by unexpected turns, including the heart-wrenching loss of an adult son in a tragic gun accident. Yet, Jack's spirit remained unbroken. He redirected his strength into public service, serving in the California State Assembly and as a senator. During his tenure, he led the Senate Committee on Education and the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education, and Jack tirelessly championed legislation on mandatory gun safety equipment. For Everything There Is a Season is a testament to Jack's remarkable journey, a story of faith, perseverance, and dedication to making a difference.