Residential Communities at Whittier College

Theme communities provide a supportive, living-learning environment for students who share common interests and life experiences.

With the support of a Resident Advisor and community standards, Whittier's residential communities encourage understanding, respect, leadership and education.

Theme Communities

A theme community is an environment where students with similar interests live together in a dedicated area of a residence hall and participate in programs that echo similar academic, social, and personal interests.

Gender-Inclusive Housing

Gender-inclusive housing at Whittier College provides an affirming, safe, and welcoming community living option for students regardless of their gender identity or biological sex. In this community, students may room with individuals of different gender or sex. Residing in the gender-inclusive community is voluntary and open to all Whittier students. This is located in Harris A.

First-Generation Housing

The First-Generation-themed community housing at Whittier College in Wanberg Hall will provide an environment where first-gen students can live and share their unique experiences with peers. Students will participate in programming designed to help first-gen students succeed in all areas of their college experience. This community caters to the needs of first-generation college students. Whittier College recognizes a first-generation college student as someone whose parent or guardian has not received a four-year degree in the United States. They will also get a full understanding of all resources that are available to them.

E-Sports Housing

The E-Sports-themed community housing at Whittier College will offer students with a strong interest in gaming from all levels of experience the opportunity to share an inclusive community with other gamers. Located in Ball Hall, residents may choose to reside in a community that shares an interest in gaming, leadership, and communal living. From entry-level gamers all the way to serious eSports competitors, residents of this community will find opportunities to forge friendships in a small group setting based on a shared love of gaming.

Sankofa Collective

Sankofa Collective-themed community housing at Whittier College will provide an environment where Black and African-American-identifying students can reside with others, share experiences, and participate in meaningful connections and leadership opportunities to benefit their college experience. This themed community offers many opportunities to study, socialize, promote cultural enrichment and awareness, and continue to grow academically. Located in Stauffer Hall, this themed community partners with the Office of Equity and Inclusion and is open to all Whittier College students.

Sankofa is an Akan term that means “to return, to go back and get it, to seek.” It is the idea that in our past, we find the power and strength to create a brighter future. “Sankofa” affirms that our past gives us the necessary context we must use to move forward.*