Enrollment Numbers Climb as Whitworth Welcomes Students for the Fall Semester

The Whitworth University campus will be bustling on Move-In Day on Saturday, Sept. 2, with the largest class of first-year students post-pandemic. More than 560 first-year students are set to attend Whitworth this fall. That’s a 17 percent increase from 2022. 

The Class of 2027 includes:      

• Students from 20 states and 18 countries 

• 26 international students  

• 246 first-generation students

• 219 domestic students from Black, Indigenous and People of Color communities

“Our significant growth in enrollment over the prior year demonstrates that students are seeking an exemplary educational experience, valuing diversity of thought within the context of a caring Christian community,” says Josh Hibbard, vice president for enrollment management. “Whitworth is a place where exceptional faculty are engaged and dedicated to the success of each student. We will continue to be a university that provides pathways of access for students from all backgrounds, knowing that the Whitworth experience is life-changing, educating not only the mind, but also the heart.” 

New students will check in for Orientation in the Hixson Union Building and move into the residence halls from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. The Welcome Fair will take place in The Loop from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. At 1 p.m., students can attend the first football game of the season as the Pirates take on Pacific Northwest Christian in an exhibition game in the Pine Bowl. Traditiation meetings will take place in the residence halls Saturday night for new students only.

New this year, parents will have their own activities to attend on Saturday including meet and greets with university administrators, faculty and staff. They will meet with President Scott McQuilkin and his wife, Janice, that evening.

A second day of activities on Sunday will include the Crossover Ceremony in The Loop followed by Loop-a-palooza, a block party complete with games and live music. For a list of all this weekend’s activities, click here. If you have questions regarding Move-In Weekend, please visit our FAQs. You can also follow Whitworth Orientation on Instagram @whitworthorientation for giveaways, campus introductions and inside information about Whitworth life. 

About Whitworth University:

Located in Spokane, Wash., Whitworth is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church. The university, which has an enrollment of about 2,500 students, offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. 

Contacts: 

Trisha Coder, media relations manager, Whitworth University, (509) 777-4703 or tcoder@whitworth.edu.