Thursday, June 4, 2026

By Lina Paykar ’29

This year, two juniors, John Bannon ’27 (left), a Math-Physics major from Kirkland, Washington, and Keenan RiggsTurpin ’27 (right), a Chemistry major from Eureka, California, were named Goldwater Scholars, one of the nation’s top awards for undergraduate students in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). 

Created by Congress in 1986 to honor Senator Barry Goldwater, the scholarship is highly competitive, recognizing students with the potential for significant research careers and postgraduate study. For Bannon and RiggsTurpin, the award will help cover their senior year tuition, marking them as rising leaders in their respective fields.

Read more.

Thitiwoot “Perth” Sethapanichsakul ’20, who graduated from Whitman as a Biology-Geology major, has identified and described a new species of dinosaur. The discovery of Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis in Thailand—the largest dinosaur found in Southeast Asia—was published in Scientific Reports and featured on NPR.

Most college offices will close at noon on Friday, June 5, as one of four discretionary staff half days scheduled throughout the summer.

The Office of Conferences, Events and Scheduling (CES) is off to the races! After a full week of training—culminating with “CES Olympics”—the team is ready to welcome the first large group visiting campus this summer: Bike Camp Walla Walla, June 7–12. 

Noon–1 p.m.

Indoor Soccer: Futsal Game

Sherwood Athletic Center, Multipurpose Gym

7:30–9 p.m.

Stanton Sports: Sand Volleyball & Lawn Games

Near Cleveland Commons

4–6 p.m.

Rock Climbing Basics Clinic

Climbing Center

All Day

Bike Camp Walla Walla (Day 1)

Whitman College [community event]

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