In this issue: Whitman's unprecedented 10% tuition promise; a $1.5 million grant to support immersive learning experiences; highlights from commencement and our new business directory.

Whitman College is launching the Whitman 10% Promise, guaranteeing that students will never pay more than 10% of their family’s income for tuition. This new initiative improves financial aid transparency and accessibility.

As Whitman College nears the close of the record-breaking Upward Together campaign, we invite you to celebrate what we’ve accomplished together—and join the momentum before June 30.

A $1.5 million Humanities for All Times grant from the Mellon Foundation will create opportunities for students to learn from diverse communities in the Walla Walla Valley and understand how studying the humanities can fuel real-world change.

More than 300 graduates of Whitman College’s Class of 2026 received their diplomas on Sunday, May 24, in a sunny celebration in front of Memorial Building, featuring historian and justice advocate Gwendolyn Trice as commencement speaker.

Congratulations to Ruth Iiyambo ’26 and Ishaan Swami ’26, this year’s recipients of the Bassett Fellowship, as they prepare for global travel and research after graduation.

Juniors John Bannon ’27 and Keenan RiggsTurpin ’27 have been named 2026 Goldwater Scholars. This national award recognizes their outstanding promise in STEM research and supports their journey toward leadership in the global scientific community.

At Whitman College, Cello Lockwood ’19 found room to pursue all her passions. After completing two prestigious global fellowships, she’s now a graduate student researching the economics and environmental implications of the textile industry. See her path.

Eric Jacks has donated to Whitman annually since he graduated. He and his wife support The Whitman Fund through unrestricted gifts. “I give to Whitman because it has provided me so much.” Read more.

If someone within the Whitman Athletics community has made an impact on you and those around you, nominate them to be recognized!

This is the highest honor given to former Whitman student-athletes, coaches, administrators and contributors. Review the criteria and send in a nomination today.

Upcoming Events

Seattle | July 10 | Culture & Community: Alumni of Color Summer Social

Spend a summer evening with other Whitman alums and students of color! Reconnect while having a good time at a local Asian-owned brewery! 

Seattle | July 11 | Out & About at Alki: A Queer Alumni Stroll and Social

Join Out After Whitman, the LGBTQIA+ alumni group, for a beautiful summer afternoon by the water! Gather at Alki Beach for a relaxed community stroll, a touch of local history, and a happy hour to connect with fellow queer Whitties.

Seattle | July 21 | Whitties Helping Whitties: Summer in Seattle Edition

Enjoy connection and conversation with Whitman Summer in Seattle students, alumni, and community partners! Come share what you've learned, build your Seattle network, and invest in the next generation of Whitties.

Relive highlights from Whitman College's 140th Commencement Ceremony

For the graduates of the Class of 2026—and all the people who’ve supported them on their journey—Commencement was an unforgettable day of celebration and community. Relive the highlights in this video and read more about the festivities.     

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