About Whitworth

Our Mission

Whitworth University's mission is to provide our diverse student body an education of mind and heart, equipping our graduates to honor God, follow Christ and serve humanity.

Our Campus

Whitworth University's 200-acre campus of classic brick buildings, tall pines and open green areas offers a beautiful, welcoming and secure setting that encourages exploration and discovery. The university has built or expanded 16 facilities since 2011, creating dynamic environments for living, learning and collaboration. State-of-the-art labs, rehearsal rooms and maker hubs fuel students' curiosity and spark innovation.

The Loop, a large green area at the center of campus, fosters conversation and connection as students settle into hammocks, relax on bench swings or study beneath the trees, all the while listening for the pops of pinecones breaking free. Catching a falling pinecone before graduation is a Whitworth tradition, as is greeting each other on the Hello Walk that borders one side of The Loop.

Moments for reflection and renewal are woven throughout campus. The chapel offers a warm setting enriched by sacred art that inspires worship and prayer, while the Back 40's forested trails invite students to wander, wonder and connect with creation. Together, these destinations across campus support Whitworth's commitment to nurturing the whole person: mind, heart, body and spirit.

Our campus is nestled on the north side of Spokane, Washington, the second-largest city in Washington state. Students are just minutes from outdoor adventure and a lively urban scene, as well as internships and career connections.

At Whitworth, every path leads to discovery and countless ways for students to belong, believe and become.

Our Heritage

Whitworth University's story begins with George Whitworth, who in 1853 traveled by wagon train from St. Louis to the West. A Presbyterian minister, Whitworth had set out on the Oregon Trail to follow his calling to serve as a missionary. His faith and pioneering spirit would lead him to found at least 15 Presbyterian churches across the Pacific Northwest. He also served as president of the University of Washington and as superintendent of schools in Thurston and King counties.

In 1883, Whitworth founded Sumner Academy in Sumner, Wash., under the charge that "No effort will be spared to elevate the character of the school and to make it an institution of learning of the highest grade." On Feb. 20, 1890, the school became known as Whitworth College, with a defined vision to provide students "...a thorough course of education...ever directing them in pursuit of that learning and culture of mind and heart that make the finished scholar.... While it is denominational, it does not aim to be sectarian, opening its doors to all lovers of truth and learning."

As Whitworth College grew, the school moved from Sumner to Tacoma in 1899, and, in 1914, to its permanent home in Spokane, Wash. After 117 years as Whitworth College, the school's name was changed to Whitworth University in 2007, clarifying its standing and stature as a distinguished, four-year liberal arts institution grounded in a rich educational tradition. Today, Whitworth offers undergraduate, master's, doctoral and adult-degree programs.

Scott McQuilkin, Ph.D., has served as the 19th president of Whitworth University since 2022. With deep roots as both an alumnus and longtime employee, he earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from the university and has devoted his life's work to advancing Whitworth's enduring mission.