Friday, September 2, 2022

Now on display at Penrose Library:

Science Stories is a unique exhibit that explores the intersection of book arts, scientific inquiry and the environment. Science Stories features collaborative bookworks made by Pacific Northwest scientists and book artists. Categories and themes in the exhibit include water, ice, mountains, flora, fauna and human health. The exhibit will remain on display during fall semester.

If you have an interest in bringing a class or group to see the exhibit contact Ben Murphy, archivist and head of digital services.

Pedestrian Safety Reminder

From the desk of Greg Powell, director of security:

As we welcome new and returning students back to campus, we would like to take this time to remind everyone about pedestrian safety.

The Whitman campus is intertwined with public streets and can pose a risk to those not paying attention or following the law. This is particularly important when crossing Isaacs Avenue, north of campus.

Please remember these safety tips:

• Cross streets only at crosswalks or intersections.
• Don't be a distracted walker.
• Heads up, cellphones down.
• Wait until all vehicles have come to a complete stop.
• Make eye contact before crossing.

On average, a pedestrian is killed every 2 hours and injured every 8 minutes in traffic crashes in the United States. Your safety is our priority, so please use caution when walking in the areas around campus.

Camila Thorndike '10 will present a talk titled "The Fight for U.S. Climate Policy: from Student to the Senate," at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 6 in Maxey Hall. (virtual attendance option)

Thorndike has organized across eight states and the District of Columbia for climate action and progressive change. As a legislative assistant to Senator Bernie Sanders, she worked on key elements of the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest climate investment in U.S. history. 

While at Whitman, Thorndike was a student activist, ‘08 Westie, and an environmental humanities major. 

The Whitman College Office of Financial Aid has created this FAQ as a guide for graduates and students interested in learning more about the federal debt relief program that the Biden administration announced last month.

According to the announcement up to $20,000 of federal student loans will be forgiven for qualifying individuals who have federally-held loans where the first disbursement was June 30, 2022.

If you are feeling symptomatic, pick up a test from the health center during standard operating hours. During the weekend, on campus students may request a test from their resident director. Off campus students should self isolate in their residence until they can pick up a test from the health center. 

If your test result is positive, report it to the health center and start isolation protocols.

If your test result is negative, continue to wear a mask while symptomatic. If symptoms worsen, test again on day three.

Are you interested in art or writing? Quarterlife is currently hiring students for all staff positions. This quarterly publication is a platform for student expression, featuring prose, poetry, essays, photos, drawings and other creative projects, Applications are due by the end of day Saturday, Sept. 3. 

President Sarah Bolton will present a "College Update" for faculty and staff on Tuesday, Sept. 6 in Maxey Auditorium, at 8 a.m. and again at 4 p.m. to accommodate different schedules. Both sessions will be identical. Whitman employees are encouraged to submit their questions in advance of the event.

Daily COVID-19 Update

In accordance with Washington state Labor & Industries employer requirements, we are notifying the campus community that since yesterday, five people with Whitman access were confirmed positive for COVID-19. 

Please continue to follow all our campus COVID-19 protocols to help prevent transmission. Mask use will be required during the first couple of weeks of classes. 

If you have any symptoms that may be COVID-19 or know that you may have been exposed to coronavirus, please be tested. Additional masks and rapid test kits are available 7:30-11:30 a.m. and 1:30-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the Welty Student Health Center. 

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