At Whittier, professors don’t just know your name. Sometimes, they kayak right alongside you. Poet Paddle, started by English Professor Jonathan “JB” Burton, is one of the many ways Whittier brings faculty and students together for meaningful experiences beyond campus. Launched in 2023, the kayaking trip through Long Beach’s scenic Naples canals has quickly become a favorite way for Poets to bond outside the classroom.
“I created it because I know that students who have fun together on an off-campus excursion are going to be more comfortable around each other, more likely to take intellectual risks in each other’s company, and more inclined to have each other’s back,” JB explained. “In short, it’s a fun way to build trust and community.”
Each year, Poet Paddle brings together a busload of 50 students, along with faculty and staff who join in the fun. While the format has stayed consistent, a recent change ensures first-year students get priority during sign-ups, helping them kick off their Whittier journey with a memorable experience.
For JB, the highlights go beyond the time spent on the water. “Paddling through the Naples canals with a fleet of Poets is especially exciting. But for me the best part is that when we’re back on campus, I have this amazing experience to revisit and laugh about with 50 of our students.”
Part of what makes the event so special is its inclusivity. Students from all majors, class years, and backgrounds come together to paddle side by side. “Each year our group includes first years through seniors, Bio majors and Creative Writers, Baseball players and choir members, Los Angelenos and international students,” JB shared.
For anyone hesitant about kayaking, JB offers reassurance. “Kayaking on Alamitos Bay is safe, easy, and a great way to feel like you’re living the California life. I’m out on the bay at least twice a month and happy to guide anyone who wants to explore.”
The Poet Paddle is proof that at Whittier, community comes first. Whether you’re a first-year or a senior, joining in means making friends, building connections, and experiencing a tradition that sets Whittier apart.
