Monday, September 15, 2025
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New Beginnings, New Friendships at Whitman
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Starting college far from home can be daunting.
In a Student Voices blog post, Pendhay Yeshay ’28 (left) shared how he built community at Whitman through friendships, clubs, activities and other new experiences on campus.
“When you think of belonging somewhere, it is commonly emphasized that you are part of one big thing. But at Whitman, I’ve found myself being part of so many different projects and groups that I’ve ended up belonging in places I’d never expected.
“Entering my first year of college was definitely a lot more stressful than I anticipated ... Honestly, I was terrified that I wouldn’t find my people, that I wouldn’t fit in and that the next four years of my life would be lonely. After all, I was entering this phase of my life all alone and had just left so many things and people behind.
“But I’m grateful that I soon realized that starting this new journey at Whitman would bring me so many experiences and people that I can’t imagine my life without now. After landing in Walla Walla and arriving on Whitman’s campus, I immediately found belonging.”
Read how Yeshay found his people and his community during his first year at Whitman.
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Whitties are sharing it all in our multimedia blog, Student Voices. Experience Whitman and Walla Walla through our students’ eyes! Read their personal stories, passions and perspectives—from navigating campus life to mentoring and career prep, learning a new language, sharing fun club activities, living in the Interest House Community and more.
All students are welcome to share their Whitman experiences. Staff and faculty are also invited to nominate students. We’d love to partner with various offices across campus to support more student stories. Nominations can be submitted using the Whittie Wisdom Nomination Form.
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Senior Selected for Newman Civic Fellowship
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Campus Compact has named Jonathan Becker ’26, a Hispanic Studies and History (Culture and Ideas) double major, as a 2025 Newman Civic Fellow. The Newman Civic Fellowship is a yearlong program that recognizes students who stand out for their leadership potential and commitment to creating positive change in communities. Becker has been very active with Whitman’s student-led volunteer programs, including working as Community Engagement Leader for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Volunteer Recruitment. He also previously served as Co-Chair of the student club Whitman Votes, as Program Leader for Stream Team and Project Sidewalk, and as a volunteer in a variety of community programs.
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Deadline to Change Meals Plans Extended
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The deadline for students to request a change to their meal plan for the semester has been extended to Friday, Sept. 19, at 5 p.m. If you need to upgrade your meal plan, please reach out to Student Accounts (stuacct@whitman.edu).
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Four Employee Webinars Available This Week
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Whitman employees are invited to attend any of four webinars that will be offered this week through Active&Fit and Canopy.
Wednesday, Sept. 17:
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- 10–11 a.m. | Suicide Awareness (register)
During Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, learn how to support yourself and others and access valuable community resources.
- 11 a.m. to noon | Self-Care Awareness (register)
Learn how incorporating fitness into self-care routines can boost your mental health, reduce stress and promote a more balanced lifestyle.
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- 9:30–10:30 a.m. | Mastering Mortgage Approval (register)
Learn what lenders look for, how to choose the best loan program and what to do if you don’t think you qualify.
- 5:30–6:30 p.m. | Finances for New Families (register)
Learn how to prioritize and design a workable plan for your family’s goals and lifestyle.
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Suicide Prevention Training for Students Tomorrow
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Whitman Students are invited to participate in a suicide prevention training program provided by Welty Health and Counseling Center staff. The QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) model has been proven to decrease suicide risk in communities like ours. Participants will be certified as a QPR Gatekeeper, valid for one year. The training will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 16, from 4–6 p.m. in Maxey 104. Space is limited, so please RSVP in advance! Questions? Email QPR@whitman.edu. (Flyer attached.)
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Last week, several staff from the Welty Health and Counseling Center participated in the annual Suicide Prevention Walk in downtown Walla Walla. It was a great opportunity to connect with community partners who are working toward a common goal of keeping our community safe. (Photo by @weltyhealthandcounselingcenter.)
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Sherwood 114 or Reid Side Lawn (weather dependent)
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Penrose Library, Room 313 (“The Fishbowl”)
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Sherwood 114 or Reid Side Lawn (weather dependent)
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Hall of Science, Room 140
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Hall of Science, Brattain Auditorium
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Reid Campus Center, Young Ballroom
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Reid Side Lawn, Brewer Wetlands
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Penrose Library, Room 313 (“The Fishbowl”)
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Would you like to share an event with campus? Submit the information to the Events Calendar.
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Whitman Today is emailed to Whitman College staff, faculty and students each weekday during the academic year and twice a week during breaks. An archive of previous issues is available online.
All submissions are welcome! If you have accomplishments to celebrate, an event to publicize or other Whitman content to share, email whitmantoday@whitman.edu. Submissions of 125 words or less are due by noon on the business day prior to publication. Submissions may be edited and/or held for a later date according to space and editorial needs. Your submission also authorizes use on Whitman's social media unless otherwise specified.
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Find us on social media: @whitmancollege
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