Utopia Gone Awry: Rajneeshpuram, OR

This presentation will discuss the rise and demise of a utopian community developed by followers of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh in Central Oregon, 1981-1985.  What was intended?  Why did it end?  What lessons can be learned?

Walt received his BA, MA, and PhD degrees from the University of Michigan.  He taught university-level sociology for 41 years including 30 years at Chico State where he was named Outstanding Professor in 1992.

He has been an active member of Chico Rotary Club for 25 years, having chaired several committees and having served team captain, board member, and club president (2004-2005).  He has also served as North Valley representative of The Rotary Foundation and currently serves as Chair of the District 5160 Grants Committee.

Walt is a Paul Harris Fellow, member of the Paul Harris Society, Rotary Foundation Benefactor, and Major Donor.  He has received several Rotary citations including Chico Rotary Club’s Exceptional Service and Humanitarian Service Awards, and District 5160’s Distinguished Service Award and 2011-2012 Rotarian of the Year Award.   

He serves on the Enloe Medical Center Board of Trustees and is Vice President of the Honey Run Covered Bridge Association.