Whitman College is a private liberal arts college located in Walla Walla, Washington. Founded in 1882, it has a rich history of providing a well-rounded education to its students. The college is named after Marcus Whitman, a missionary who played a significant role in the settlement of the Pacific Northwest.
Whitman College is known for its strong commitment to academic excellence and its emphasis on a broad-based, interdisciplinary education. The college offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and fine arts. Small class sizes and close faculty-student relationships are hallmarks of the educational experience at Whitman, fostering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment.
The campus is characterized by its beautiful architecture and picturesque setting in the Walla Walla Valley. It features a combination of historic and modern buildings, including the Olin Hall of Science and the Reid Campus Center, which serve as hubs for academic and social activities. The surrounding region offers opportunities for outdoor exploration, including hiking, skiing, and winery visits.
Whitman College has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, with initiatives aimed at creating a welcoming and supportive community for students from all backgrounds. The college’s mission is to prepare students not only for successful careers but also to become responsible and engaged citizens who contribute positively to society. With its emphasis on critical thinking, experiential learning, and global awareness, Whitman College continues to uphold its reputation as a premier liberal arts institution in the Pacific Northwest.
Whitman College (Wikimedia)
It’s a good idea to look at these 29 interesting facts about Whitman College to know more about it.
- Whitman College was founded in 1882 and is named after Marcus Whitman, a missionary and pioneer in the Pacific Northwest.
- It is a small, private liberal arts college located in Walla Walla, Washington.
- Whitman is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States.
- The college’s motto is “Per ardua surgo,” which translates to “Through difficulties, I arise.”
- The Whitman College campus is known for its scenic beauty, featuring historic and modern buildings set against the backdrop of the Blue Mountains.
- The college offers a diverse range of academic programs, including over 45 majors and minors.
- Whitman emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore connections across different fields of study.
- It is home to the Whitman College and Northwest Archives, which preserves and provides access to historical documents and records.
- Whitman College has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, with LEED-certified buildings and eco-friendly initiatives.
- The Whitman College Observatory is used for astronomical research and public outreach events.
- The college’s athletic teams are known as the “Whitman Blues,” and they compete in NCAA Division III.
- Whitman College offers a vibrant arts scene, with opportunities for students to engage in music, theater, and visual arts.
- Students participate in a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and rafting in the nearby natural surroundings.
- Whitman College is known for its close-knit community and strong sense of collaboration among students and faculty.
- The Student Engagement Center assists students in finding internships, research opportunities, and career guidance.
- The college hosts the Whitman Undergraduate Conference, where students showcase their research and creative projects.
- Whitman is home to the student-run radio station, KWCW, which broadcasts music, news, and shows.
- The college’s bookstore is known as the Whitman College and Northwest Archives Bookstore.
- Whitman College has a long-standing tradition of holding the “Ma Whittie’s Tea” event, where students, staff, and faculty come together for tea and conversation.
- The Sheehan Gallery on campus features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art.
- The Whitman College campus is within walking distance of the charming downtown area of Walla Walla, known for its restaurants, shops, and cultural events.
- The Whitman College Farm is a student-run farm that promotes sustainable agriculture and food systems.
- The college actively supports diversity, equity, and inclusion, with various student organizations and initiatives.
- Whitman’s Outdoor Program offers opportunities for outdoor adventures and skill-building.
- The college’s student government is known as the Associated Students of Whitman College (ASWC).
- Whitman College’s commitment to global education includes study abroad programs and international student exchange opportunities.
- The campus features a meditation labyrinth for contemplation and reflection.
- Whitman College has a strong tradition of community service and volunteerism.
- The college’s dedication to fostering critical thinking, global awareness, and ethical leadership continues to shape the experiences and futures of its students.
Whitman College shines as a jewel of liberal arts education, nestled amid the scenic beauty of Walla Walla, Washington. With a legacy dating back to 1882, it combines a commitment to academic excellence with a strong ethos of environmental stewardship and social responsibility. This tight-knit community fosters interdisciplinary exploration, nurturing young minds to connect the dots, embrace diversity, and forge pathways to a brighter future. As “Per ardua surgo” suggests, through difficulties, Whitman College continues to rise, empowering its students with the tools, knowledge, and values to face the world’s challenges and contribute positively to society. With its blend of academic rigor, experiential learning, and a vibrant campus culture, Whitman College remains a beacon of inspiration and impact in the realm of higher education.
