Department of Humanities

Getting to the core of human experience.

 “People might come in with unquestioned understandings from their families or their churches or no understanding at all and they leave challenged.” - WP faculty

An education in the humanities is a fascinating exploration of the questions and ways of thinking that have challenged humans about the meaning and interpretation of life throughout the ages. The captivating and passionate voices of ancient and modern poets, philosophers and artists beckon you to travel through the passageways of literature, art, philosophy and history to feast on the knowledge and beautiful imagery embedded within the pages of your text books. Along with the wealth of knowledge gained from a humanities education, the high caliber of WPC’s humanities program equips you with critical thinking, research and communication skills that will serve you well in your chosen vocation. By choosing a Communications or English major or Drama, Fine Arts or Philosophy minor, your career potential is endless. A major in the humanities department offers a comprehensive exploration of ideas and texts that shape civilization and human behavior—knowledge integral to navigating the challenges and pressing issues you will encounter in your chosen field.

Life After College

Communications and English majors are enjoying successful careers editing magazines, teaching, writing bestsellers, launching successful software companies, raising families, and running for political office, among other things. Both degrees are well- suited for graduate study in those fields as well as law and education. Furthermore, Drama and Fine Arts minors gain first-hand experience

in acting, directing, scriptwriting, dramaturgy, costume, sound and lighting design, set construction, and stage management. Recent humanities graduates have pursued advanced degrees at Lewis and Clark College, the New School (NYC), University

of Chicago, Oregon State University, University of Oregon, Portland State University, Washington State University, Linfield College, University of Chicago, and Indiana Wesleyan.

Faculty

Terry Baker Associate Professor of Philosophy and Rhetoric Phone: 503.517.1237 Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Luke Goble Assistant Professor of History Phone: 503.517.1074 Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Robin Gordon Assistant Professor of Speech and Drama Phone: 503.517.1077 Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Heidi Owsley Assistant Professor of English Phone: 503.517.1078 Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Connie Phillips Professor of English Phone: 503.517.1075 Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Pam Plimpton Professor of English and Literature Phone: 503.517.1225 Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it