Whitney N. West

DR. WHITNEY N. WEST

June 24, 1985 - June 11, 2025

Memorial Services for Dr. Whitney N. West, 39, of Baton Rouge, LA, formerly of Dermott, will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 28, 2025. Services will be held at Holland Chapel AME Church, 700 West Iowa Street, Dermott; Rev. Gwain Hammock, Officiating Minister.

Whitney was born on June 24, 1985 to the late Lisa F. Humphrey. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Margaret L. Stanford.

Whitney dedicated her life to Christ at a young age and joined Holland Chapel AME Church, where she served as a Sunday School Secretary.

At a tender age of 15, Whitney was accepted into the Lawrenceville Prep School in New Jersey. There, the community welcomed her warmly and she developed many lasting friendships. As a member of Stanley House Dorm, she was a fierce competitor in intra-dorm athletics, especially Ultimate Frisbee. Whitney was active on the track and field team and a devoted member of the Alliance of Black Cultures Group. She was a beloved part of the Lawrenceville community and could frequently be found in the company of her many friend groups. Her spirit and vitality were infectious, and she was always up for a good conversation and laugh. Her mature demeanor endeared her to older students on campus. Whitney embraced the academic rigor at Lawrenceville and committed herself to excellence; graduating in 2003, which naturally led to her next academic journey at George Washington University.

Whitney arrived at George Washington University in Washington, DC as a true force--driven by ambition, clear in her purpose and pursuing her goal with an infectious passion uniquely her own. From the moment she stepped onto campus, Whitney immersed herself in the vibrant university life. She was not only a dedicated student, but also an active community participant. She joined several student organizations, including serving on the Colonial Inauguration Team, helping to usher in new classes of George Washington's students, and holding multiple leadership roles within the Mu Beta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Her leadership and commitment left a lasting impression on all who encountered her.

Whitney continued to build strong and enduring friendships throughout her time in the Washington, DC area. She was a safe space for many--someone who listened without judgment, infused joy into even the toughest moments, and used her voice to advocate fiercely, not just for herself, but for those who needed it most.

True to her pursuit of academic excellence, Whitney earned both her Bachelor's, in 2007, and Master's Degrees, in 2010, from George Washington University. In July of 2023, she fulfilled a lifelong dream by earning a Doctorate of Education from the University of Southern Mississippi. With over 15 years in higher education, Whitney made a lasting impact at several esteemed colleges and universities. She served as Director of Students Records at Louisiana State University Law School. Her professional journey also included roles such as Co-Chair for the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, Vice President of Louisiana State University Disability Faculty and Staff Caucus, among others. In addition, Whitney was a passionate advocate for people with chronic illnesses and disabilities, using her voice and platform to champion equity and understanding.

Whitney's life was a masterclass in perseverance, service and love. She was admired for her confidence, wisdom, and her remarkable ability to bring people together. Whether mentoring students, advocating for others, or loving on family and friends, Whitney gave her whole heart, she lived with purpose.

She is lovingly remembered by her aunt, Rebecca Cook (the late Nathan Cook) of Michigan; her sisters, Bethany Jones (Billy Jones) of Texas, and Brittany Humphrey of Arkansas; Nieces, Raegan and Kennedy Jones; Fiance, Christopher Knox; and a host of family, friends and sorors. Whitney's legacy of strength, service, and dedication will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.