10 Reasons to Support Whittier College During Big Poet Give

April 2, 2025

The Poet community is rallying together in a big way for Big Poet Give, Whittier College's annual day of giving that unites alumni, parents, friends, faculty, and staff to support Whittier College. Next Wednesday marks the final opportunity to join this exciting event. 

Gifts designated to the Whittier Fund sustain the personalized liberal arts experience that defines a Whittier education, supporting scholarships, faculty excellence, student life, career readiness, and athletics.

In recognition of 10 years of Big Poet Give and the beloved, iconic Rock at the heart of campus, here are 10 reasons Whittier rocks. Chip in now to keep the momentum going. 

1. Scholarships

At Whittier, opportunity isn’t just a promise — it’s personal. One-hundred percent of Whittier College students receive financial aid, and here’s a Poet twist: President Kristine E. Dillon ’73 signs every single award letter herself, putting heart and ink into the College’s commitment to access and affordability.

2. Athletics

Poet Pride is back in full force! The success of the men’s and women’s basketball teams also exemplifies the College’s commitment to athletics as part of the campus culture.

3. Bring Back Better

The return of two key teams, football and men’s lacrosse, is about more than just sports—it’s about building a culture of excellence in athletics, academics, and community.

4. Enrollment

The word is out: Whittier is the place to be. Strong enrollment shows students are drawn to the College’s signature mix of academic rigor, personal attention, and a community of caring.

5. Experiential-Learning Opportunities

Learning at Whittier goes far beyond the classroom. Whether it’s career coaching, landing a fellowship, or helping cultivate the student-run Coffee Orchard, Poets roll up their sleeves and dive into real-world experiences that stick with them for life.

6. 8:1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Forget lecture halls packed with hundreds of students. At Whittier, an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio leads to meaningful mentorship, lively discussion, and professors who know your goals — and help you reach them. These relationships often last far beyond graduation.

7. The Arts

Creativity thrives at Whittier. With top-tier programs in theater, music, and visual art, students find their voice — and their stage. From the spotlight of the Shannon Center to the beats dropping in the campus recording studio, the arts are alive and electric.

8. Quaker Values

Inclusion. Reflection. Community. These aren’t just words — they’re the roots of the Poet experience. Grounded in Quaker traditions, Whittier fosters a culture where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to make their mark.

9. Vibrant Campus & Location

Whittier’s campus is like a postcard come to life — historic buildings, leafy walkways, and sunny skies. Tucked between the mountains and the Pacific, and just a short drive from LA, it’s the best of both worlds.

10. Commencement & Social Mobility

Whittier isn’t just where students earn degrees. It’s where they launch lives of impact. Nationally recognized for advancing social mobility, Whittier is a place where potential turns into purpose.

These 10 reasons are just a snapshot of the energy and excellence that define Whittier College. A gift to the Whittier Fund — whether it’s $5 or $500 — makes a direct impact. Give today

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