In addition to focusing on first-year programming, her theme is Wellness through Connection at Whittier College. As a health psychologist, she believes that all aspects of well-being (psychological, physical, intellectual, social, spiritual) are not only interconnected with one another, but also intrinsically connected to the wellness of our environment and communities. Because of this, her program seeks to connect students to themselves, one another, faculty, staff, broader community, and the physical spaces we all inhabit to foster a deep sense of belonging and thriving. Joanne is joined by her teen son and cats, who are also excited to contribute to a thriving campus community.
With generous support from members of the Class of 1957 and other alumni, Whittier College has established a permanent “home” for alumni on campus in the Dezember Alumni House (formerly Johnson Faculty Master House).
Physically attached to Johnson Residence Hall, the two-story Dezember Alumni House was designed by the architectural firm of William Lloyd Jones, Inc., and completed construction in 1991.
Since the early 1990s, Dezember Alumni House has served as both a faculty-in-residence and a place to support the transition of first-year students to college life. The programs and events at Dezember Alumni House have a special focus on first-year students and often include special programs with alumni visitors, mentors, and career services activities.
