Whitman Stories

The awards recognize alumni who exemplify outstanding achievement in their careers, communities, or through service to Whitman College.

The Robert E. Lee Memorial, Arlington House, reopened after an extensive overhaul by the National Park Service. Descendants of both the confederate general and enslaved people who once lived and labored on the estate came together to mark the occasion. "I get emotional talking about it," Hammond said. "It's a very powerful opportunity to bring people together and try to make a difference and a better world."

While still a student at Whitman, he began questioning what felt like the arbitrary division between men's and women's clothing, embracing styles that would traditionally be considered feminine. “I now dress completely for fun,” said Dunlap, who identifies as a queer man and advocates for gender fluidity as part of this year’s Levi’s “All Pronouns All Love” Pride campaign.

View clips from Whitman’s 135th Commencement.

John Johnson, Ph.D., has been appointed Whitman College’s new vice president for diversity and inclusion after a nationwide search.

The graduating Whitman College studio art majors concluded their studies with a final thesis exhibition, “STILL LIFE: Senior Thesis 2021.”

A recap of Whitman College's 135th Commencement ceremony, Sunday, May 23, 2021, with photos from the event.

“Along the Columbia River: Maya Lin and the Confluence Project,” will be on view through Dec. 15 at Whitman College’s Maxey Museum and online.

Whitman College student Lauren Rhodes was chosen as both the senior class speaker and banner designer for the 2021 commenencement ceremony.

This year’s commencement ceremony will be in person—but only for graduating seniors. Here are more need-to-know facts about Whitman College’s 2021 commencement.

Davis, who is managing director and senior partner, chairman of North America at the Boston Consulting Group, was listed as one of the senior leaders on the 2021 EMpower Advocates Executive Role Models ranking for his efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion.

Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold is set to speak in person at the college’s spring commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 23.