WHEREAS, It is the policy of the Washington State House of Representatives to recognize the extraordinary accomplishments of colleges and universities in the State of Washington; and

WHEREAS, Whitworth College, now Whitworth University, was founded on February 20, 1890, in Sumner, Washington by George F. Whitworth; and

WHEREAS, In 1914, Whitworth relocated to Spokane, Washington from Tacoma, Washington, commencing classes in September 1914; and

WHEREAS, Spokane developer Jay P. Graves' generous offer of land and the enthusiastic support of Spokane's citizens, who raised significant donations towards a building fund, led to Whitworth's impressive and now prestigious campus in north Spokane; and

WHEREAS, Today, Whitworth has a student body of 3,000 students and a strong educational program, teaching students the principles of their majors and the Christian principles Whitworth was founded upon; and

WHEREAS, Whitworth's mission is to provide its diverse student body with an education of mind and heart, equipping its graduates to serve humanity; and

WHEREAS, The students who graduate from Whitworth go on not only to apply what they have learned, but also to do so in a manner that is singular to the ideals and morals of Whitworth; and

WHEREAS, An education received from Whitworth is marked by an education of mind and heart, academic excellence, the integration of faith and learning, and great opportunities to study abroad, enroll in various internships and practicums, and receive an education that is parallel to the great universities of our state; and

WHEREAS, Whitworth and the State of Washington have enjoyed a strong and mutually enriching friendship that has benefited the school, its students, and the citizens of Washington in immeasurable ways; and

WHEREAS, Whitworth's academic honors, athletic victories, and record of public service demonstrate the university putting its mission into practice; and

WHEREAS, Whitworth's faculty and staff are given the freedom to incite students to fearlessly ask questions, and go to great lengths to prepare students for the work they will move on to after graduation;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House of Representatives recognize the scholastic and athletic achievements of Whitworth University, congratulate Whitworth University on its 125th anniversary, and honor Whitworth University's devotion to educating students, which has made it among the most excellent universities in Washington State; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to Whitworth University.