Reeshika Sharma | Staff Writer

On Oct. 12, the Whitworth University Board of Trustees met with off-campus students for a luncheon, organized by Rhosetta Rhodes, vice president of Student Life. This event was aimed to bridge the gap between on-campus and off-campus student experiences by putting trustees in conversation with students.

At this annual trustee-student luncheon, students have the opportunity to meet and converse with members of Whitworth’s Board of Trustees. This event is normally on-campus.

This year, the trustees attended an off-campus event. The event was limited to 30 students, and an option to RSVP was offered.

Off-campus students were the focus of this luncheon because “[off-campus students] have a tendency to come on campus and leave after classes. [Whitworth wants] them to be more connected to the university and be more engaged with the various activities,” said Rhodes. The event was in the Crow’s Nest, with the announcement for the event sent to Pirate Port for all students to RSVP for the event. Thirteen trustees and 14 students attended the event.

A similar event to the fall luncheon will happen in April, giving students another chance to meet with the trustees. This luncheon allowed off-campus students to connect with the university leaders, upholding the university’s commitment to foster a sense of community and inclusivity. The intent is that all students, regardless of their living situation, have a voice in shaping the campus experience.