A devoted teacher and counselor, Shirley Lapier was beloved by those whom she taught and worked with throughout her life. A member of the Chapman family for 68 years, Lapier supported the academic community by being a legacy donor for the Attallah College of Educational Studies.

In 1955, Shirley graduated from Chapman University with a double major in physical education and biology. In the previous year, she worked to help Chapman relocate from Los Angeles to Orange. She was in the first graduating class at the Orange campus.

Shirley was an active and impactful character in the Chapman community. She was a long-time member of the Charles C. Chapman Legacy Society, where she supported students through the Lapier Family Endowed Scholarship. She was also a regular participant in Chapman’s annual Candle Lighting Ceremony, where alumni welcome new students and their parents to the Chapman family as part of Fall Orientation.

Shirley Lapier with Donna Ford Attallah

Shirley Lapier ’55 (center left) with Donna Ford Attallah ’61 (center right) at the opening of the Donna Ford Attallah ’61 Angels Room Dedication in February 2019

In 2011, during Chapman’s 150th Anniversary Celebration, Shirley was recognized as one of the 150 Faces of Chapman that were instrumental in advancing the university’s mission. Most recently, she served as the Hospitality director as a board member for Town & Gown, an organization that helps fund Chapman students’ education through scholarships and funds.

Shirley’s devotion and fervent passion for teaching was demonstrated through her job as a teacher and counselor at Magnolia High School in the Anaheim Union High School District for almost 40 years. She was also a proud member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, an organization that promotes the professional excellence and personal growth of female educators in education.

The Attallah College along with the rest of the Chapman family will forever honor and respect Shirley’s legacy and commitment towards furthering students’ education. Her generosity and endless support to Chapman University will be carried on through the school’s dedication to academic prosperity.

 

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held at Chapman University’s Elliott Alumni House (204 N Olive St, Orange, CA 92866) on Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 2:00–5:00 pm.  The open house will follow Shirley’s much beloved Lunch at the Forum.