Whittier College

Whittier College is a private liberal arts college located in Whittier, California, in Los Angeles County. Founded in 1887 by members of the Religious Society of Friends, the college has historic Quaker roots and continues to emphasize community engagement and ethical responsibility. It offers undergraduate programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, along with select graduate programs. Whittier College competes in NCAA Division III athletics and is known for its small class sizes and close student-faculty interaction. The college attracts students seeking a residential liberal arts education in a suburban Southern California setting with access to the greater Los Angeles region.

Whittier College was founded in 1887 in Whittier, California, by members of the Religious Society of Friends, also known as Quakers. Originally established as Whittier Academy, the institution expanded to offer collegiate instruction in the 1890s and officially adopted the name Whittier College in 1895. Charles E. Tebbetts became the first president of Whittier College in 1900, helping guide its early development and fundraising efforts. In its early decades, the college emphasized liberal arts education and character development rooted in Quaker values. During the twentieth century, Whittier College grew academically and physically, adding new academic programs, residence halls, and campus facilities. The college educated future U.S. President Richard Nixon, who graduated in 1934. Although its formal religious affiliation later ended, Whittier College maintained its historical commitment to civic engagement. Over time, it evolved into a small, private liberal arts college serving a diverse student population in Southern California.