Read about a bequest for computer science and events coming soon

A newsletter for alumni & friends • September 2024

Dear Alumni and Friends,

Last week was one of the most exciting of the year as we welcomed over 400 new students, consisting of 390 first-years and 30 transfer students. With the help of our campus community, we had a vibrant week for the Class of 2028 as they got settled in their new-found home at Whitman.

We had the pleasure of greeting this unique class with distinct experiences and diverse passions—hailing from around the country, the continent and the globe.

This incoming class includes students from 33 states, 43 countries, four tribal nations and several from right here in the Walla Walla Valley. Made up of 17% international students, 29% students of color and 21% who are in the first-generation of their family to attend college, this class is yet another that is breaking barriers at Whitman.

We also welcomed nine Posse scholars from Chicago and three Šináata Scholars from the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, both new partnerships with the college that will continue to flourish over time.

The curiosity, energy, creativity and grit that the Class of 2028 has shown in their short time as Whitties is exciting and inspiring to see. We cannot wait to witness what they may do over the next few years!

Adam Miller
Vice President for Admission and Financial Aid

On Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024, the Whitman College community welcomed its newest students, including nearly 400 first-year students in the Class of 2028.

A substantial gift from the estate of the late Mary Lee Masterson ’48, a trailblazing leader in Northwest banking, will establish a new endowed scholarship benefiting Computer Science majors at Whitman College. Read about this meaningful gift.

The latest graduates to join the ranks of Whitman’s alumni, the Class of 2024 made the most of their time at Whitman—and now they’re ready to make their mark on the world. Read about the new alumni.

Combining Psychology and Biology programs, this new cross-disciplinary major is to give students interested in neuroscience the tools to explore the mind, our biological blueprint and address issues of human health and well-being. Register now.

From the side of a volcano to the stage of a historic theater, from the world of impact investing to the NCAA Championships, Whitman faculty, students and alumni are showing the world what it means to be a Whittie. Read more.

Kirsten Adams Gable ’01 has supported Whitman through volunteerism and philanthropy, including 25 years of consecutive giving. Read more.

A proud Whittie and member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity, Matt Osborne ’93 gives back to Whitman in honor of his late father, George Osborne ’67. Read more.

Classes of ’14, ’05, ’04, ’03, ’99, ’84, ’79, ’69, ’64 and ’59! Sept. 26-29, 2024 is approaching. It's not too late to register! Early bird pricing ends on Sept. 15th.

Look forward to the All-Class Party and other events to reconnect with your classmates. Child care is available - but you must sign up by Sept. 15th!

Additional reunion information.

Explore the Galápagos Islands—one of the world’s most pristine and well-preserved ecosystems—in the footsteps of Charles Darwin. Join Dr. Pat Spencer, Grace F. Phillips Professor of Geology, whose knowledge of the Galápagos will enrich your experience on an eight-night expedition See the Alumni Travel page for the full itinerary, pricing and reservation form. When: July 17-25, 2025.

Walla Walla, Bay Area, Austin and Houston ...

Whitman will be in your area!

Make sure you register for Whitman Connect, to network with other alumni in your field, join interests-based alumni groups and get updates on identity-based gatherings
Update your information! Let the alumni office know where you are so you're not left out of any regional invites, gatherings and other communications.

The Human-Centered Design Program program is excited to welcome its first Visiting Mentors, all alumni, for the 2024-25 academic year:
- Alina Shabashevich Black ’06, specializing in product innovation and experience design.
- Leor Maizel ’09, focusing on digital product and UX design.
- Shelby Blessing ’07, with expertise in architectural design.

On Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024, the Whitman College community welcomed its newest students, including nearly 400 first-year students in the Class of 2028.

Staff, faculty and returning students offered up their time to be friendly faces and helpful guides on Move-In Day—reinforcing what it means to be a Whittie.