News
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December
Wardman Library Showcases Exhibit of Days Past
12.16.09 Gathering old black-and-white photos, scrapbooks, dance cards, and other items of memorabilia dating back to the early 1900s, the Palmer Society—Whittier's first women's society—has set up a display at Wardman Library honoring the College's heritage.
"There's so much pride in Whittier College history," Tina Rinaldi, Palmer president said in a recent article. "Being in a society at Whittier College, we're involved in this unique history."
Former Palmer Judy Kraft '60 is one of the alumni who lent personal collections to the display. "I had all these things in a little box," Kraft told the Whittier Daily News. "They bring back all kinds of memories."
The display will be open for viewing through Dec. 18.
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November
Alex Tallarida '10 Delves into Richard M. Nixon's Approach to Healthcare Reform
11.23.09 In the midst of one of the largest public debates on healthcare reform, Richard M. Nixon Fellow Alex Tallarida is looking back at President Nixon's bi-partisan efforts to expand healthcare access to all Americans.
"In 1972, Richard Nixon stated he wanted a reform of our health care system so that every citizen would have access to quality health care at a reasonable cost regardless of income or area of residence," writes Tallarida in a recent article. "The most crucial part of Nixon's plan was the employer mandate. Under this plan, every employer would be required to offer all full-time employees the Comprehensive Health Insurance Plan."
Read Tallarida's complete article at http://www.nixonlibraryfoundation.org.
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Whittier College Launches Mentor Project with Whittier High School
11.18.09 Eight student from nearby Whittier High School (WHS) were on campus today as part of the Whittier Scholars' College and Community Mentoring Program. The high schoolers were joined by mentors from the College on a tour of campus, an information session, and lunch at the Campus Inn.
In all, 10 Whittier College sophomores and juniors and 12 WHS seniors are participating in the pilot project, which began last spring, funded through a grant from the B.C. McCabe Foundation. The mentoring program is a collaborative effort between Whittier College, Whittier High School and the Whittier Union High School District.
"Whittier College students can provide Whittier High School students with tremendous support and encouragement as they wend their way through the college application process, so it just made sense to start a program that linked the two student groups," said Christina Moreno-Donato, advisor to the Whittier Scholars' off-campus programs. "We wanted to target the students who were not in a college mentoring program — the ones on the fence that need that little extra push."
According to WHS Principal Lori Eshilian, the mission of WHS is to have every student meet the requirements to attend a four-year college or university. "Through the Whittier College mentor program, we hope to give students the added boost of peer support to help them attain admission to the colleges of their choice."
Prof Joseph Price Comments on the Resurrection Of John 3:16
11.17.09 Professor of religious studies Joseph Price comments on the apparent come back of the flashing "John 3:16" signs at sporting events.
Price, is quoted in Forbes magazine saying that holding religious banners up at sporting events for TV is a thoroughly modern phenomenon.
"Even in Rome, most of the fans in the Colosseum were not literate," he said, so signs with any words wouldn't have made sense.
But Price points out that sports and religion have always gone hand in hand.
"Sports are competitive. You strive for victory in a game," he says. "In religion, you strive for victory in life or victory in Jesus." More »
Hundreds of Poets Give a Helping Hand to Local Community
11.09.09 More than 500 students, staff, and alumni participated in the 16th Annual Whittier College Helping Hands Day—an event that places members of the College community in volunteer service projects throughout the local community.
In collaboration with current community organizations and assistance leagues, teams from Whittier helped clean streets, tend gardens, paint, work in senior centers and homeless shelters, and feed those in need, among other projects.
Work sites included HOW. House, Interfaith Food Center, Danny's Farm, South El Monte Farm, City of Pico Rivera - Parks and Recreation, First Day Coalition, Salvation Army Shelter, Hadley School, Ronald Mc Donald House, and Beverly and 605 Off Ramp (Caltrans), to name a few.
Begun 16 years ago on a much smaller scale and limited to the College grounds, Helping Hands Day has since grown exponentially, further strengthening and expanding the College's relationship with the City of Whittier and neighboring communities. In addition to Whittier, students volunteers in sites in El Monte, Pasadena, and Pico Rivera.
Read more in the Whittier Daily News.
Five Whittier College Student Films to Compete at 2009 Campus MovieFest West Regional Finale
11.06.09 On Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Presidio Theater in San Francisco, the top 75 student films from 16 colleges and universities in California, Oregon, Washington, and Arizona will compete in the 2009 Campus MovieFest's Western Regional Finale. Screenings will include Q&A sessions with the filmmakers; awards for top regional honors will include professional film programs and equipment from Apple;
movie shown in-flight on Virgin America and at the Cannes Film Festival Short Film Corner; and entry into the Campus MovieFest International Grand Finale Competition. Among those films selected to screen are five Whittier entries: Phoebe's Fifteen, Audition, A Family on Probation, Palaver, and O Sister, Where Art Thou?
More »
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October
New Study: Testosterone Makes Men Stingy
10.27.09 Testosterone, the hormone that creates brawn also causes men to be less generous, concludes a new study led by visiting professor Karen Redwine, a neuro-economist.
"Our broad conclusion is that testosterone causes men essentially to be stingy," says Redwine, who presented the work at the Society for Neuroscience's annual meeting in Chicago last week.
A previous study of 17 London traders found that morning testosterone levels correlated with each day's gains and losses, with more of the hormone associated with a profit. But that study didn't establish a cause-effect relationship between testosterone and shrewdness.
To make this case, Redwine and her colleague Paul Zak, at Claremont Graduate University, gave a testosterone-containing gel to 25 male university students, and then tested their generosity. All the participants also got a placebo cream with no testosterone, either a few days before or after the testosterone boost. Neither the researchers nor the participants knew which was which until the end of the study.The research was originally reported in New Scientist.
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Political Science Professor to Lead 12-Day Tour to Vietnam--His First Return Since the War
10.12.09 Professor Fred Bergerson, political science professor and veteran of the Vietnam War (Captain, U.S. 1st Cavalry Division/Airmobile), will lead a 12-day tour for alumni and families through some of the most well-known battle sites and share recollections and analyses of his time spent there in military service, notably on major strategic campaigns including the Tet Offensive and relief of Khe Sahn.
This will be Bergerson's first visit to the country since his tour of duty ended in 1971. As he notes in his letter of invitation to prospective travelers: "I am not sure what we will find there; I am certainly not sure what I will find there. I know that when I was called to active duty in 1966, I was a grad student focused on the politics of Indonesia. And when my tour ended and I came home, I vowed never to return to South East Asia and definitely to stay away from Vietnam. But after years of teaching courses such as Warfare: In Pursuit of Military Security, Military Strategy and Arms Control, my intellectual interests are now focused squarely on the meaning of the war—in its time, and for contemporary American politics, civil-military relations, and national security policy. Geographically and intellectually, my life has taken its twist and turns, and now I find myself willingly, albeit cautiously, traveling back through a door I thought firmly closed."
This travel opportunity is open to all Whittier College alumni, students, their families and friends, and space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Non-College parties interested in joining this trip may be placed on a waiting list, should spots become available. For a full trip itinerary, costs, and for registration information, please click here.
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Whittier College Earns Male and Female SCIAC Honors
10.07.09 The Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) announced its weekly Athletes of the Week and for the fifth time this year Poets were honored. Casey Regehr '10, who helped lead the men's water polo team to a 3-1 weekend at the Claremont Convergence Tournament, became the third Whittier male recipient of the year.
In addition, goalie Gina-Marie DiPierro '13 was named the SCIAC Female Athlete of the Week for the week ending October 6. She is the second women's soccer team player to be honored this season. DiPierro made her first collegiate start on September 30 against first place Claremont-M-S. She totaled 15 saves and helped the Poets end their 40-game conference losing streak. More »
Noted Indian American Author Receives Honorary Degree
10.01.09 Acclaimed author Bharhati Mukherjee received Whittier College's highest award, an honorary doctorate of humane letters (L.H.D.), during a special ceremony last night. Mukherjee was on campus as part of the 2009 Whittier College Writers Festival.
The Albert Upton Professor of English Language and Literature Tony Barnstone nominated the author for this award.
"In many ways Mukherjee's journey has been the journey of the American Dream; In the sense of discovering for yourself who you want to be," said Barnstone during his presentation of the author.
Mukherjee is the author of seven novels, most recently Desirable Daughters and The Tree Bride, two collections of short stories, Darkness and The Middleman & Other Stories, and numerous essays on immigration and American culture. She has also co-authored, with Clark Blaise, two books of non-fiction, Days and Nights in Calcutta and The Sorrow and the Terror: The Haunting Legacy of the Air India Tragedy. She is the first naturalized U.S. citizen to have won the National Book Critics' Circle Award for Best Fiction. She has been a professor of English at the University of California, Berkeley since 1989.
Whittier College Receives HHS Grant
10.01.09 The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation has awarded Whittier College a grant for $102,000 to support educational research in the pre-school level. The study, "Exploring Child Care Cultural Congruency: Predictors and Pathways to Social and Emotional Outcomes in Kindergarten," will be led by education and child development professor Kay Sanders.
Sanders' research will analyze information from the 1997 Family & Child Experiences Survey Head Start study to look at how cultural practices at home and in child care coincide to benefit children from low-income families. In particular the study will look at whether issues associated with cultural diversity and cultural responsiveness influence children's outcomes, particularly children's readiness for school.
"In the past, the impact and influence of cultural aspects has not been a focus of inquiry at the child care level. In the child care research field presently, there is quite a bit of talk about the quality of child care and how quality relates to children's well-being. Many of the ways in which quality is measured in child care fails to find strong evidence for a connection between high quality care and children's outcomes," said Sanders. More »
Lights, Camera, Action! Dozens of Whittier Students Sign up for Campus MovieFest
10.01.09 Sixty-one teams of Whittier College students have decided to try their hand at filmmaking as part of the 2009 Campus MovieFest (CMF). This is the third year Whittier students participate in this event. According to organizers, who were on hand to register students, this year's total adds up to 20 more teams than last year.
"We couldn't be more excited about the participation level," said Jessica Reynoso, spokeswoman for CMF. "While we won't have final student numbers until all the teams submit their cast lists, most teams have on average about 14 students involved, so we could see over 800 Whittier students telling their stories."
CMF, billed as the world's largest student film festival, provides students with everything they need—including camcorders and Apple laptops—to make a movie in one week. During this year's festival, its estimated that 75,000 students will participate in over fifty events, earning $400,000 in prizes and the chance to see their movies on the big screen at college red carpet finales and regional grand finales, in addition to showcases on AT&T phones and in-flight on Virgin America. The events culminate at the CMF International Grand Finale at Paramount Studios in June 2010.
More »
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September
100 Years of Poet Football Celebrated at Home Opener
09.28.09 They arrived in droves, many sporting official Orthogonian polos and caps, Purple & Gold shirts, or other Whittier College gear. All told, more than 65 former Whittier football athletes representing eight decades of play headed to campus to help celebrate the program's centennial--from Hubert Perry '35, who served as manager and shared the field with teammate Richard M. Nixon '34, to former NFL Rams exec Dick Beam '58, to All-American player Ken Chandler '51, and more. Following a packed tailgate, the current Poet team took the field against the Menlo Oaks, and at halftime, all former players, coaches, trainers, and managers in attendance were individually recognized in a special ceremony at the 50-yard line.
PHOTOS: To see a slideshow from the "100 Years of Football Tailgate & Halftime Ceremony," click here.
To read a recap of the game between the Poets and Menlo College, click here.
Award-Winning Author Karen Tei Yamashita Speaks to Class of 2013
09.15.09 Award-winning author Karen Tei Yamashita spoke at the 2009 New Student Convocation in the Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts. Yamashita read from her book, Tropic of Orange, the summer reading for entering first-year students.
Tropic of Orange has been described as a "satirical, semifantastical novel" about Los Angeles. The book follows the lives of seven characters from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds that make up the city's multicultural spectrum.
During the first week of class, students had the opportunity to discuss the various themes of the book with their professors and last night Yamashita held a Q&A with students. Responding to a question from a student in the audience, Yamashita spoke about her use of stereotypes to challenge preconceived ideas.
"There is a stereotype about Los Angeles that we are superficial, that we are a city of surfaces, a city of movie stars. We see ourselves constantly in film," said Yamashita, a native of Los Angeles. "I wanted to also say [yes] Los Angeles we are superficial, but also to contest that in a way."
Whittier Student Recognized by Congresswoman Linda Sanchez
09.15.09 Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (CA-39) commended the work of four local students who spent time interning in her Congressional Office in Cerritos this summer. Among these students is Whittier College theatre major Ashley Ramos '11.
"It is inspiring to see a group of young women choosing public service. I look forward to seeing these rising stars go on to accomplish great things," said Sanchez.
The congressional internship program provides students with the opportunity to learn more about government and develop leadership skills.
"This was a rewarding experience to learn about the Congresswoman's work in such a great learning environment," said Ramos.
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Whittier Hosts Two-day Workshop on Peace and Conflict Resolution
09.14.09 Dozens of high school and community college educators participated in a two-day workshop at Whittier College, Causes of War: Paths to Peace. Organized by political science professor Joyce Kaufman, the Center for Active Learning in International Studies at the University of Southern California, and the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) in Washington, D.C., the goal of the seminar was to teach educators about issues related to peace and conflict.
The workshop was prompted by the 20th anniversary of Whittier College's International Negotiation Project, a program started by Kaufman with a grant from USIP to teach high school students about the use of the internet as the tool for negotiating on a range of global issues.
George Elunai Latio, a former child soldier from South Sudan, delivered the keynote address. Read more in the Whittier Daily News.
John Murdy '89 the Man Behind the Horror at Universal Studios
09.11.09 John Murdy '89, creative director at Universal Studios Hollywood, is once again hard at work converting the popular theme park into a place of screams and chills for Halloween Horror Nights '09. With mazes, monsters, and mayhem all carefully and strategically planned, Murdy promises attendees a frightfully good time. To read an article about Murdy's most recent production, click here. More »
President Sharon Herzberger Welcomes Class of 2013
09.06.09 Hundreds of new Poets descended upon the Whittier College campus this weekend for the 2009 new student orientation — Wild West Whittier.
More than 400 first-year and transfer students were on site to check into their dorms, register for classes, meet new classmates and professors, and in general, begin their transition into post-secondary academia.
The 2009 New Student Convocation, held Sunday evening at Harris Amphitheater, celebrated the 108th class to matriculate at Whittier College. During the ceremony, President Sharon Herzberger and the faculty welcomed all the new students and their families.
"You have chosen well in choosing Whittier College," President Herzberger told the incoming class."You have been granted a gift. Tonight as you sit in silence, listening, commit yourself to take advantage of all that this extraordinary gift can bring."
PHOTOS: To see a slideshow from events during Orientation and move-in day, click here.
Click here to read an article written by new Poet mom and Dallas Morning News reporter,
Nancy Churnin,
about bringing her son to Whittier College.
More »
Blogger Tours Whittier College
09.01.09 College blogger Tam Warner Minton took a tour of Whittier College to see for herself what the campus has to offer. When it comes to choosing the right college, she writes, it's all about the "fit."
"Students, you must learn to know yourself before you choose a college, as it is absolutely crucial to understand how you learn, what environment will fit you, because choosing a college is a personal experience. Visit the campus, even if only online," she adds.
Minton's College Adventures blog is a site dedicated to information, news, and discourse regarding college prep, the college application process, and student college experiences.
To view an online campus tour or Whittier College click here.
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August
Whittier Water Polo Ranked No. 4 in CWPA Preseason Poll; Cross Country No. 6 in USTFCCCA West Region
08.25.09 The Collegiate Water Polo Association (CWPA) released its 2009 preseason rankings on August 19, and Whittier College came in at No. 4 in the Division III poll. The Poets were also one of only three Division III schools to earn a vote towards the Varsity Top 20 that includes all collegiate water polo programs.
For its part, the women's cross country team earned a preseason ranking of No. 6 in the West Region by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association. The lady Poets are one of two programs in the Top 10 to have its top seven runners returning and is one of six schools with at least two all-region runners returning to the team.
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Los Angeles Sparks Honor President Sharon Herzberger
08.20.09 The Los Angeles Sparks women's basketball team honored President Sharon Herzberger last night during its annual Inspiring Women Night in the Staples Center.
The first ever Lisa Leslie Inspiring Women Awards was presented at halftime on the court. Four inspirational women that have made an indelible mark in their field and community from four different industries were selected to receive the award.
Lisa Leslie has inspired generations of athletes as a three-time WNBA MVP, two-time WNBA Champion, four-time Olympic Gold Medallist and member of the WNBA All-Decade Team.
During the game, Leslie scored a season-high 28 points helping her team earn a 78-63 victory over the Minnesota Lynx.
Read more in the Whittier Daily News.
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Memorial Service To Be Held For Professor Hilmi Ibrahim
08.03.09 Beloved professor Hilmi Ibrahim passed away on July 12, following a prolonged illness. A recipient of the Harry W. Nerhood Award for Teaching Excellence--one of Whittier College's highest honors for faculty--Ibrahim was a member of the Department of Kinesiology and Leisure Science for more than four decades, and is the author of several published texts in the subject. During the last several years, he also co-taught the popular course, Arabs and Muslims, with religious studies professor Joe Price, and served as advisor for the Thalian Society. Outside of academia, Ibrahim
served as parks and recreation commissioner for the City of Whittier for 10 years, as well as president of the California Association of Parks and Recreation Commissioners.
A memorial service honoring the life of Professor Ibrahim will be held on Saturday, August 22, at 1:30 p.m., in the Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts. All alumni, friends, and former colleagues are welcome to share in the celebration. For more information, please contact the Office of the Dean of Faculty, 562.907.4204.
Read more in the Whittier Daily News.
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July
Tony Strickland '93 Plays in IBL Championship Game Tonight
07.28.09 Tony Strickland, team member of the Los Angeles Lightning, will be on hand for game 3 of 3 of the International Basketball League championship tonight July 28 at 7 p.m. The game can be heard via the internet on KVTA 1520 AM or KKZZ 1440 AM.
The 6'5" Strickland played basketball during his Whittier days and is currently a serving as a state senator representing California's 19th District. He joined the Los Angeles Lightning pro basketball team this past spring. The Lightning is a second year professional basketball team competing in the fifth year IBL. For more on the game or to see a video about Strickland visit www.lalightning.net. More »
Local High School Students Get a Taste of Chinese Language from Whittier Prof
07.19.09 Professor George Da Roza is currently teaching a four-week, intensive course in Mandarin at Whittier High School—part of Whittier's efforts to expands its East Asian studies program. The class is being funded by a Department of Defense grant, obtained with the help of Congresswoman Linda Sanchez.
"Studies indicate that by 2010, China will replace Japan and Germany in the economic market," Da Roza told the Whittier Daily News. "Students who are interested in business, politics or international relations will need to have some understanding of the Chinese culture and language."
Whittier College has recently developed a major in Chinese with an enthusiastic response from students. Since 2003, enrollment in Chinese language courses at the College has grown exponentially.
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Whittier Grad Preps for a 10,000 mile Road Trip for Charity
07.19.09 Whittier grad Allyson Jo Saca '09 and three friends are preparing for the 2009 Mongol Rally, a charity race across Europe and Asia in a small, underpowered 1.2-liter car, reports the Weston Forum.
The rally begins in Barcelona, Spain, and ends in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Driving more than 10,000 miles across deserts, mountain ranges and through difficult border crossings, the group will likely be on the road between four to six weeks. Dubbed the Silk Road Warriors, Saca's team is trying to raise $3,000 in charitable donations, which will go to Mercy Corps, a group that works to support rural communities and families in Mongolia.
Professor Chuck Hill Shares His View on Couple Sharing
07.14.09 Professor of psychology Chuck Hill appears in the Wall Street Journal discussing the differences between men and women and how they may affect romantic relationships. Hill asserts that adhering to social expectations in terms of displaying emotions can be the root of many problems.
"Women can go to their friends and talk and ask, 'Does he love me? What do you think?'" says Hill in the article. "If men went to their friends and said, 'Do you think she loves me?' they would say to get a grip."
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Cultural Center Director Embraces Korean Identity After Long Struggle
07.13.09 Cultural Center Director Joy Hoffman, adopted as an infant from Korea, shares that she did not come to terms with her Korean identity until she became an adult and began working in higher education.
"If I hadn't gotten into higher ed, I would never have realized this was an issue," said Hoffman to the Ventura County Star. "I never would have found my sense of self." Hoffman now conducts research on young Asian-Americans whose circumstances mirror her own. More »
Whittier College Receives Grant From Edison International
07.02.09 Edison International has awarded Whittier College a grant for $10,000 to support undergraduate science research. The Edison Undergraduate Summer Science Research Fellowships for Minority Students will provide talented students of color majoring in the sciences with vital support to conduct science research.
"Edison's investment in these Whittier students will help ensure that our next generation of scholars, researchers, and scientific leaders is diverse in background and experience and prepared for work in collaborative environments," said President Sharon Herzberger. "These are fields that are so crucial to our country's future well being. We foresee a long partnership with Edison, creating new and varied opportunities for future scientists." More »
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June
Washington Post Music Critic Josh du Lac '93 Remembers Michael Jackson
06.26.09 In his blog for the Washington Post, Whittier College alum and seasons music writer Josh du Lac eulogizes the late, self-proclaimed King of Pop Michael Jackson.
"Try, for a moment, to separate the art from the artist. Consider Michael Jackson's entertainment proffer in a vacuum-sealed space," writes du Lac.
"In that bubble, where Bubbles and all the peculiarities and plastic surgeries matter not one whit, you will find a man — and, if you go back far enough into the archives, a child — who was unquestionably one of the most transcendent performers in popular music." Click here to read more. More »
Professor Joe Price Discusses the Mets-Yankee Rivalry in Biblical Terms
06.26.09 Professor of religious studies Joe Price is featured in a recent Newsday article discussing the inter-city rivalry that divides New York into two fan camps - Mets or Yankees.
"It's sort of Cain and Abel, Isaac and Ishmael," said Price, editor of From Season to Season: Sports As American Religion. "The older brother often is considered privileged and, in something like intra-city rivalries, the issue often is about privilege. As the younger child often feels the need to prove himself, likewise the team that sees itself less privileged feels the need to prove itself against the privileged other, to earn the city's embrace," added Price in Newsday.
President Herzberger Speaks About Education's Greater Purpose
06.25.09 Whittier College President Sharon Herzberger spoke about the role that education plays in both social progress and economic recovery for a recent article in Currents magazine.
Herzberger is quoted saying, "For too long we have talked about education as a private good. It is time to shift our rhetoric and reemphasize the role of education as a public good, recognizing a well-educated citizenry and wide access to education benefits us all."
Aspiring Journalist Yasmin Khorram '09 Translates Language Skills into an Opportunity
06.23.09 Whittier College senior Yasmin Khorram is gaining coveted ground as a CNN intern this summer. Khorram, a fluent Farsi speaker, has been working closely with the West Coast news crew to cover breaking news surrounding the Iranian elections.
"The violence towards the protestors in Iran right now is horrific, but it is clearly giving me an amazing opportunity to lend my skills, knowledge, and own history to my internship," said Khorram. "The newsroom is constantly asking for my assistance with this rapidly developing story." More »
Whittier College is Example of Thrift in the New York Times
06.21.09 The New York Times reports that Whittier College has joined colleges across the country in taking small steps to save money in this tough economy.
The story mentions efforts taken in the Campus Inn to reduce food waste. Through student-led educational efforts and a management decision to go "trayless," food waste dropped from 7.4 ounces per student in the fall to 2.7 ounces per student in the spring—saving the college almost $30,000 a semester. More »
Poet Coach Richard Kim '93 Speaks About Golf Team's Bright Future
06.19.09 Whittier College golf coach Richard Kim '93 was featured in the Whittier Daily News. Kim guided the Poets from the "doormat" of the NCAA Division III ranks (268th place) to a finish in the top 25 percent of all D-III schools (68th place) in 2009.
Kim's transformation of the golf program began in September of 2007, and in the article he states that the Poets are one or two players from being "really, really good." More »
Professor Joe Price Makes Sense of Sport Rivalries
06.09.09 Religion professor Joe Price, editor of the book From Season to Season: Sports as American Religion, was recently quoted in Newsday explaining sports rivalries. Price described these clashes as "archetypes of good versus evil, us versus them, the pure versus the impure."
Center for Academic Success Nationally Certified
06.09.09 Whittier College's Center for Academic Success (CAS) has received national certification by the College of Reading and Learning Association's (CRLA) International Tutoring Program Certification (ITPC). The ITPC ensures that CAS's tutor training program provides the highest quality teaching and preparation for peer tutors and allows CAS to issue CRLA certificates to individual tutors who meet various levels of certification requirements.
"Our future plans include advancing our program certification to Level 2 and 3, which will continue to enhance the quality of our tutoring training program as well as enhance the quality of our tutoring services," said CAS Director Kristina Alvarado-Gonzalez.
CAS programs include individual academic guidance, peer tutoring, supplemental instruction, a peer academic coaching program, and an academic success workshop series.
More »
Associate Dean Lisa Bortman Named Advocate of the Year
06.09.09 Associate Dean Lisa Bortman, director of First Year Programs, has been named Advocate of the Year by the National Resource Center on First Year Experience and Student Engagement.
Each year, presidents of American post-secondary institutions are invited to nominate one educator on their campus for this award. A national panel of distinguished educators review the nomination portfolios and select 10 individuals as the nation’s Outstanding First-Year Student Advocates.
As a group, these individuals mirror the diversity of American colleges and universities. They share the common goal of improving the educational experience of first-year students, yet their methods for doing so are uniquely responsive to the particular institutional settings of which they are a part.
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May
106th Whittier College Commencement Ceremony
05.22.09 The 106th Whittier College Commencement ceremony took place at Memorial Stadium under a brilliant Southern California sky. More than 350 graduate and undergraduate students smiled anxiously and soaked in the sun's rays, waiting for their opportunity to walk on stage and receive their diploma.
Keynote speaker Dr. Marian Wright Edelman—noted children's rights activist—provided the Class of 2009 the needed inspiration and advice for life post-graduation. More »
Adrienne Cisneros Selekman '81 Advises Graduates to "Take Charge" of their Future
05.19.09 Nearly 50 students donned the traditional cap-and-gown to be formally recognized by President Sharon Herzberger during the 8th Annual Latino Graduates Celebration.
Distinguished alumna Adrienne Cisneros Selekman '81 was the keynote speaker. A seasoned professional in public relations and public affairs, Selekman most recently served as a presidential appointee to the U.S. Department of Energy.
"[As a student at Whittier College] Dr. Martin Ortiz advised me to take charge of what I believed in and to own it. He inspired me to do all that I do and to always give it my best," said Selekman to the graduates in attendance. "Go forward class of 2009, and take the Martin Ortiz 'take charge spirit' with you."
The event was dedicated to the memory of Martin Ortiz '48, founder of the Center for Mexican-American Affairs at Whittier College, later renamed the Ortiz Programs in his honor. Ortiz passed away earlier this year.
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Greenleaf Gallery Features Art Students' Prized Works
05.14.09 The Studio Arts Department held a juried exhibit of student works. The juror, Leslie Jones, a curator from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, awarded first place to Desi Stewart '09 and second to Farrin Ochoa '09. David Charbonier '09 and Whitney Egoian ''09 tied for third place.
Farrin's work entitled Tlacuache was also chosen for the inaugural President's Purchase Prize, which was created with the help of Professor Jenny Herrick to allow the College to acquire works by talented Whittier students. These works will become part of the College's already impressive collection of art and will be exhibited on campus for successive generations of students and visitors to see. All student works are currently on exhibit at The Greenleaf Gallery in Mendenhall on the Whittier campus.
More »
Class of 2009 Includes Fulbright, Pickering, and National Science Fellows
05.14.09 Three Whittier College seniors have been chosen for top academic fellowships. Political science major Caitlin Finley '09 has been awarded a Thomas R. Pickering Fellowship from the U.S. Department of State. Economics major Priya Punatar '09 has received a Fulbright Fellowship, which will enable her to travel to Terengganu in Malaysia to teach English to high school students. And, Whittier Scholars major Juliette Donatelli '09 was awarded the Heartland Ecological/ Environmental Academic Research Training Fellowship, funded by the National Science Foundation. More »
Annual All-Sports Awards Banquet Celebrates Student-Athlete Achievement
05.13.09 More than 300 athletes, coaches, parents, faculty, and staff attended the annual All-Sports Awards Banquet last night in celebration of the individual achievements of Poet student-athletes.
Four major awards were announced last night recognizing both male and female athletes: Freshman of the Year, Team Sport Athlete of the Year, Individual Athlete of the Year, and Presidential Scholar Athlete of the Year. More »
Chinese Military Expert Dennis J. Blasko Speaks at Whittier College
05.12.09 Dennis J. Blasko, former U.S. Army military intelligence officer and foreign area officer specializing in China, gave a special lecture at Whittier College yesterday in A.J. Villalobos Hall. His talk addressed U.S. political-military challenges from China in the 21st century.
Blasko is a well-respected, independent analyst of the Chinese military and author of The Chinese Army Today: Tradition and Transformation for the 21st Century, published in 2006.
Watch a video recording of the lecture here.
More »
Whittier College Recognizes Student Service
05.04.09 Celebrating a milestone, Whittier College held its 5th Annual College and Community Expo on Saturday, May 2, to recognize the thousands of hours of dedicated service provided by Whittier College students to local non-profit organizations.
During the 2008-09 school year, 102 students, majoring in everything from psychology and education to business and biology, worked with more than 50 local nonprofit organizations.
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April
Ideas Hatch, Incubate, and Coast Along at Whittier College
4.30.09 There's a new phenom taking place on the sloping campus pathways these days, as electric bikes--and a brand new company formed by students, two young alumni, and a professor--draw the curious and eco-friendly out of their cars, off their feet, and onto a new craze: the Pedego.
The Pasadena Star reports: "Business is hatching at Whittier College
And the offspring is an electric/hybrid bicycle that a group of students, faculty and alumni unveiled Saturday at the campus.
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More »
Whittier College's Theatre Students Go International
04.30.09 Students from Whittier College's Theatre Department, led by professors Jennifer Holmes, Gustavo Geirola, and Doreen O'Connor Gomez, participated in the III International Theatre Festival in Barranquilla, Colombia.
The students performed Lorca in a Green Dress, a play by Pulitzer-prize winning playwright Nilo Cruz, at the largest theatre in Barranquilla. The festival featured theatre performances by artists and students from Argentina, France, Chile, Mexico, Peru, Venezuela, and the United States, as well as several Colombian productions.
Read the group blog here.
More »
B-Ball Alum and CA State Senator Tony Strickland '93 Throws Obama a Challenge
04.29.09 California State Senator Tony Strickland used to tear up the basketball court when he was a player for the Poets. Now, the 6' 5" Whittier alumnus towers more often in the Sacramento capital than on the court, though he's had the opportunity of late to do both. Beginning with a one-on-one challenge (which he won) against a local sports radio host, Strickland is now joining minor league Los Angeles Lightening basketball team for at least one game this season (Saturday, May 2, at Gilbert Sports Arena in Thousand Oaks), joining other teammates formerly of the Utah Jazz, L.A. Clippers, and Phoenix Suns. Beyond that, Strickland, a Republican representing CA's 19th District, has also issued a friendly one-on-one court challenge to fellow basketball enthusiast President Barack Obama.
Aptly noted in the Ventura County Star, "It already has all the makings of a classic rivalry between hoops-crazed politicians. Republican versus Democrat. Current state senator versus former state senator. Whittier College graduate versus Occidental College alumnus." More »
Spring Honors Convocation
04.20.09 During the 2009 Spring Honors Convocation dozens of Whittier College students were bestowed with various honors from departments and college heads for their dedication to academics and service. To see a full list of students honorees click here.
Patricia Van Oosbree, assistant professor of kinesiology and leisure science and the 2008 Harry W. Nerhood Teaching Excellence Award recipient, delivered the keynote address, "If Not This?"
Dean of Faculty Susan Gotsch presented the 2009 Nerhood Award to chemistry professor Devin Imoto. Read more here. More »
Professor Laura McEnaney Awarded Howard Foundation Fellowship
04.06.09 Professor Laura McEnaney, Nadine Austin Wood Chair in American History, has been awarded a George A. and Eliza Gardner Howard Foundation Fellowship for her post-World War II project entitled "Postwar: A Social and Policy History of Peace, 1944-1953." The Howard Foundation awards a limited number of fellowships each year for independent projects in selected fields. The Foundation targets its support specifically to early to mid-career individuals who have achieved recognition for at least one major project. More »
Beloved Alumna Allie (Darling) Lowe ’37 Dies
04.06.09 College Trustee and devoted alumna Allie (Darling) Lowe '37 died this weekend in her home in Whittier. Lowe graduated from Whittier with a degree in American History and was a member of the Thalian Society. As an alumna, she established an endowed scholarship in honor of her parents Ida and John Darling and recently worked to establish a position in religious and spiritual life within the Student Life division. She had a wide-ranging career as a teacher, researcher, and consultant; and she was an avid volunteer for such organizations as the American Red Cross, League of Women Voters, and the YWCA. The family is planning a service in the Whittier's Memorial Chapel in May.
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March
President for a Day at Whittier
03.24.09 In these economic times, Whittier College is trying to impress upon its community the value of a liberal arts education. With this in mind, Whittier decided to send College President Sharon Herzberger to see what this educational experience is all about and to live first-hand the life of today's student who must juggle academics, work, and extra-curricular activities. At the same time, political science major Caitlin Finley '09 spent the day as President Finley - taking on certain responsibilities of the College president such as touring facilities, meeting with staff, faculty and alumni, as well as handling some fundraising duties. Read more in the Whittier Daily News.
Read their blogs here: President for Day and Student for a Day.
Whittier College Students Tackle Childhood Obesity
3.24.09 More than 50 Whittier College students are partnering with local fitness expert Michael Seril to show a group of 200 overweight grade schoolers the joys of being physically active. This is part of the Advocating Children's Fitness Fair that will take place at Whittier College on April 18.
"This is a wonderful opportunity to bring awareness of the growing problems of obesity in youngsters, and the lack of P.E. in area elementary schools," said kinesiology professor Kath Barlow in the Whittier Daily News.
Whittier College Announces Appointment of New Vice President for Academic Affairs
03.17.09 Announced today, Dr. Charlotte G. Borst has been appointed Whittier College's next Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty, effective July 1, 2009. Borst will succeed the current dean, Dr. Susan Gotsch, who has been at Whittier for seven years.
"Charlotte is bringing to Whittier a wonderful breadth of interests and experience, devotion to our interdisciplinary tradition, and dedication to advancing students' aspirations and achievement," said President Sharon Herzberger. "We are fortunate to have such a strong colleague joining our leadership team. I know her particular talents and expertise will be instrumental in the strategic advancement of our academic programs."
More »
Professor Geetha Rajaram Comments on New Labor Secretary
03.16.09 According to an article in La Opinion, U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis will face challenges balancing her strong ties with labor unions and her new duties at Labor Secretary. Economics professor Geetha Rajaram commented in the Spanish-language daily that big businesses are already showing concern. She gave as an example the recent downgrade of Wal-Mart shares by Citibank that cited upcoming legislation to simplify the process of forming unions as a potential concern for the company. More »
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February
Dr. Judea Pearl Addresses Whittier Community
02.20.09 Dr. Judea Pearl delivered the 2009 Feinberg Lecture entitled "Being Jewish, American, Western in the Post-911 Era" to a packed room of students, faculty, alumni, and friends last night in AJ Villalobos Hall at Whittier College.
Dr. Pearl, the father of slain Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl, dedicated the evening's discourse to his son who was killed in Karachi, Pakistan on February 1, 2002.
"You brought joy, friendship, music, and insight to many people around the world," said Dr. Pearl. "Today people gather to honor you, so this is your revenge. The victory of the boldness for which you loved humanity, the victory of the human spirit, forever struggling for the noble, forever daring the impossible."
Along with his wife Ruth, Dr. Pearl co-edited I am Jewish: Personal Reflections Inspired by the Last Words of Daniel Pearl, an anthology which provides a panoramic view of how Jews define themselves in the post-9/11 era. More »
Memorial Stadium's New Turf Highlighted
02.19.09 Newman Field's new artificial turf is the subject of an article in Sports Turf magazine.
"The synthetic field completely revolutionized our sports program," said athletic director Robert Coleman in an interview for the magazine. "The field has become a multi-dimensional facility; activities are scheduled nearly round-the-clock."
More »
Whittier Athletes Shine in the Classroom
02.17.09 The Whittier College Athletics Department announced that 189 of its student-athletes completed the fall 2008 academic semester with a grade-point average of 3.0 or higher.
The student-athletes' success is highlighted by the individual achievements of Nicholas Papageorge '09 (football), Reme Bohlin '11 (tennis), Cathleen Clinnin '11 (lacrosse), and Megan Maguire-Marshall '12 (swimming) who all finished the semester with a perfect 4.0 GPA.
Moreover, the women's cross country team will be recognized by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) as an All-Academic Team for achieving a team GPA of 3.21. More »
Whittier College Announces Appointment of New Dean for the Law School
02.11.09 Following an extensive, national search, Whittier College President Sharon Herzberger announced Monday that Penelope Bryan has been appointed Dean of Whittier Law School, effective July 2009. Bryan will succeed the current dean, Neil H. Cogan, who has helmed the law school for the past eight years. Read more in the Orange County Register. More »
Professor Dan Duran Offers Insight to Recent History
02.09.09 Business administration professor Dan Duran was in Washington D.C. during the 44th Presidential Inauguration this past January 20. In this blog he reflects on the election and how he and his family played a role in history. Click here to read his blog. More »
Whittier College Professors Comment on Love, Religion, and Football
02.02.09 As an avid football fan and expert in the intersection of sports and religion, Professor Joe Price was a sought after expert this week to give his take on the annual pigskin battle that took place on Sunday. Dr. Price is quoted in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, National Post, and Kansas City Star comparing the event to a religious experience.
For his part, relationship expert and psychology Professor Charles Hill gave some advice in Women's Health magazine to football-widows on how to best handle the big day.
More »
Frost/Nixon Misses the Mark for Whittier Alumnus
02.02.09 The film Frost/Nixon, a dramatization of the taping of interviews by British TV host David Frost with former President Richard Nixon '34, has received critical acclaim and been nominated for five Academy Awards, including best picture. But for alumnus Geoff Shepard '66, author of The Secret Plot to Make Ted Kennedy President: Inside the Real Watergate Conspiracy, the film is the latest in a long series of ad hominem attacks on the 37th President of the United States. Shepard was an attorney on Nixon's White House staff for five years, and helped in his Watergate defense.
Read a complete film review here. More »
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January
For Whittier Students The Time is Now
01.30.09 First-year student Adrian Gonzales was the first place winner of the 8th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Oratorical Contest at Whittier College. The annual event honors the life and legacy of Dr. King and seeks to inspire students to imagine how they can play a role in the continuing struggle for civil rights and social justice in the U.S. and around the world.
"[In] this new, progressive year of 2009, there is work to be done. And today I am here to tell you that we cannot wait because when we look for an opportune time to act, the time is now," said Gonzales during his speech, echoing the theme of the evening, The Time is Now.
Each of the winning speeches emphasized the need for young people to continue to be active participants in social and political change. The competition was organized by Director of residential life Delaphine Hudson and the residential life staff.
Read the winning speeches here: Adrian Gonzales '12 , Natalie Smythe '12 (second place), and Jennice Ontiveros '11 (third place). More »
Whittier College Withdraws Request to Raze Gilford Hall
01.29.09 Whittier College has decided to withdraw its request from the City of Whittier to demolish Gilford Hall, a 100-year old building that had served as a mailroom for more than 40 years. Razing the building would allow the college to make additional parking for the Campus Center. Members of the Whittier Conservancy had opposed demolition and asked the City to designate it a historic landmark. The building has not been declared as such.
Read a statement from President Sharon Herzberger here.
A View of History From Whittier College
01.20.09 Joining young people across the nation, Whittier College Poets gathered for a public viewing of the 44th Presidential Inauguration in the Ettinger Student Lounge. The viewing was followed by a brief presentation on the significance of the day's event by Dr. Eric Lindgren, associate professor of political science. Read more in the Whittier Daily News.
Meanwhile, in the days leading up to the event, Whittier College Nixon Fellows Teresa Baranowski '10 and Neslie Tumulac '11 headed to Washington, D.C. to actively take part in this historic occasion.
Whittier College Loses Faithful Alumnus "Chet" McCloskey
01.20.09 Devoted alumnus Chester "Chet" McCloskey '40, founder of chemical manufacturing company Norac, Inc., died January 15 at the age of 90. Throughout his life, McCloskey had been a generous alumnus and in 2009, he and his wife established the McCloskey Chair in Chemistry and the Hazel Cooper Jordan Chair in Arts and Humanities. Moreover, he was always a faithful Poet fan.
"I hope you were able to experience the same joy I experienced in seeing Chet on the sidelines of football games, wearing his original letter sweater and, as always, cheering on the Poets," said President Sharon Herzberger in a letter to the Whittier community.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 31, at 10:30 a.m. in Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1757 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena. In lieu of flowers, the McCloskey family has suggested gifts be sent to Whittier College Office of Advancement.
Whittier College Community Mourns Loss of El Jefe Martin Ortiz '48
01.13.09 Martin Ortiz '48, who served Whittier College for more than 40 years and who founded and directed Whittier College's Center of Mexican American Affairs, died yesterday afternoon. Ortiz' dedication to bettering the lives of students and to educational excellence has left a permanent mark on the College.
"His commitment helped to transform Whittier College into one of the most diverse liberal arts colleges in the country and created an environment that promotes our founders' mission to respect people of all backgrounds," said President Sharon Herzberger. "He will be missed, but his legacy is strong." Read more in the Los Angeles Times.
UPDATE: A memorial service honoring the life of Martin Ortiz '48 took place on January 25 at Whittier College. To read coverage of the service in the Whittier Daily News, click here.
Chinese Delegation Tours Whittier College's Richard M. Nixon '34 Collection
01.12.09 Today, Whittier College hosted a delegation of Chinese officials led by the Hon. Xu Jialu, vice chairman of the National People's Congress of China. Vice Chairman Xu is visiting the United States to deliver a series of lectures and develop further ties between the U.S. and China as senior advisor of the China Association for International Friendly Contact. The delegation visited the Rose Hills Center for Information and Technology Resources to view the College's collection of material belonging to President Richard M. Nixon '34, accumulated during his time as vice-president.
"We talked about the importance of faculty and student exchanges, cooperation in science and technology, and the need for people all over the world to get to know each other's language, customs, and culture better," said Whittier College President Sharon Herzberger.
Whittier College has a growing connection with China and recently signed two agreements with Chinese universities that will expand study and travel opportunities for students. Currently, the College offers programs at universities in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong as well as the January Interim course that travels through various regions in China.
Nixon Fellows Head to Washington D.C. for Historic Presidential Inauguration
01.06.09 Whittier College Nixon Fellows Teresa Baranowski '10 and Neslie Tumulac '11 are heading to Washington D.C. this month to be part of the 44th Presidential Inauguration celebration. The two have been blogging about president-elect Barack Obama and the election process since November.
In an article looking at how colleges are planning for this historic inauguration, Inside Higher Ed highlighted excerpts of the fellows' blogs.
"There is an overwhelming sense of joy and hope stemming from the change that Obama has promised," writes Baranowski from Spain, where she had been studying abroad. "It will be interesting to see if this feeling stays the same or changes as Obama begins his presidency."
More »
Whittier Mourns the Loss of Former Trustee Carl L. Randolph, Jr. '43
01.06.09 Chairman Emeritus of the Board of Trustees Carl L. Randolph, Jr. '43 passed away on January 3, 2009, near his home in Seattle, Washington. Randolph earned a B.A. in chemistry from Whittier College and an M.A. and Ph.D. in chemistry from USC. Given an honorary degree by Whittier in 1982 for his longstanding leadership in the field of science as well as to his alma mater, Randolph served on the Whittier Board of Trustees from 1972-90, officially awarded emeritus status in 1990.
Randolph is the retired CEO and Chairman of U.S. Borax and Chemical Corp. His wife Jane Taber Randolph '43 is also a graduate of Whittier College.
A memorial service is planned in Washington.
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