1. HEINER CENTER (HNR) 

Start your self-guided tour at the Heiner Center (HNR), located near the “Gathering Fountain,” a beautiful feature designed to resemble a pod of orca whales. The Heiner building is home to Orca Central, your go-to spot for all your college needs. Whether you have questions or need support throughout your journey, this is the place to visit.

Here you’ll find services like:

• Scheduling an appointment with your academic advisor 
• Drop-in financial aid assistance 
• Registration
• Outreach & Admissions 
• TRIO SSS  

The building also features Heiner Theater, where performances and ceremonies take place. Classrooms and computer labs are located on the lower level. 

2. BAKER HALL (BKR) 

After exploring Heiner, walk out along the sidewalk in front of Baker Hall (BKR). 

Here you’ll find: 

• Computer information systems: Classes that are recognized by the National Science Association (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE2Y). 

• IT networking: In Fall 2017, Whatcom began offering its first bachelor’s degree in IT networking. Most classes for WCC’s computer science, networking, informations systems and cybersecurity programs are held in Baker Hall. Many classes required to complete the degree take place in this building.  

WCC was designated as the lead institution of CyberWatch West, a regional cybersecurity education consortium formed to address the shortage of information security professionals. 

WCC is also a demonstrated leader and host institution for the National Cybersecurity Training & Education Center (NCyTE) and CAE Candidates National Center (CCNC), the Washington State Cybersecurity Center of Excellence. 

3. SYRE STUDENT CENTER (SSC) 

From Baker Hall, continue along the path to the Syre Student Center (SSC). The courtyard in front of Syre is a lively hub for student events and club activities. 

Here you’ll find: 
a variety of student-focused resources

MAIN FLOOR: 
Bookstore (SSC 101): Purchase textbooks, school supplies, WCC merchandise, snacks, and more. The bookstore also offers a book buy-back program for used textbooks at the end of each quarter. 
Orca Food Pantry: The WCC student food pantry offers free nonperishable food items and hygiene products to support students in need. Students can stock up on groceries once a week by showing their student ID card.

UPSTAIRS:
Student Life & Development (SSC 208): Connect with fellow Orcas through events, clubs, and student government opportunities.       
The Simpson Intercultural Center (SSC 217): A welcoming space providing resources and events for all students, particularly those from underrepresented groups. 
International Programs (SSC 201): Advising and resources for international students as well as study abroad information can be found here. 
Syre Auditorium: Frequently hosts events, productions, and live entertainment, making it a vibrant part of campus life. Join in on game nights or sing your favorite karaoke song for Student Karaoke Night!

4. LAIDLAW CENTER (LDC) 

Exit Syre and walk towards Laidlaw Center (LDC). This building serves as a key resource for students and visitors. 

Here you’ll find: 

Cashier’s Window/Business Office: Conveniently pay tuition and fees. 
Access & Disability Services (ADS): Providing accommodations and resources for students with disabilities. 
Counseling Services: Offering free, confidential short-term counseling for current students. 
Veteran Services: Supporting veterans and their families with VA benefits and resources. 
BFET Program: Providing support like continued basic food benefits, financial assistance for textbooks and supplies, possible tuition help, childcare subsidies, and individualized academic and career planning. 

Other areas in Laidlaw include the President’s Office, Human Resources, Campus Safety & Security, and various classrooms. 

5. PAVILION (PAV)

As you leave Laidlaw, you’ll notice a flagpole ahead. Turn left from there, and you’ll find The Pavilion (PAV).

Here you’ll find: 

Student Recreation Center (SRC): The SRC has fitness equipment, group fitness studios, an indoor running track, and an updated gym for basketball and volleyball. You’ll also find the Athletics Department, physical education classes, and locker rooms, making it a central space for staying active and connecting with the campus community. 

The the Student Recreation Center is a great place to workout and manage stress. Try a free yoga class or the group fitness classes to unwind or checkout any sports equipment free of charge!

The Pavilion gym is where the men’s and women’s basketball teams play and practice. Come to a game and show your school spirit! The SRC also hosts intramurals. Check in at the SRC front desk for more info.

6. CASCADE HALL (CAS) 

From the Pavilion, cross the street and make your way over to 
CASCADE HALL (CAS). 

Here you will find:

• Art classes 
• Engineering program
• Transitional Studies programs 
• Adult Basic Education: basic reading, writing, and math 
• GED preparation 
• Adult High School Completion
• English classes for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

The Horizon: WCC’s student newspaper, which is distributed for free on campus and within the Bellingham community. The Horizon distributes four issues each academic quarter, featuring coverage on college events, college news and local news (Bellingham and Whatcom County,) movie and video game reviews, horoscopes, student government information, and photojournalism. Students can write for the Horizon and earn credits as part of a journalism class or apply for one of the Horizon’s paid student employment positions.  

7. ROE STUDIO (ROE)

Behind Cascade Hall, you will find Roe Studio (ROE).

Here you will find:

A wonderful location for students to take ceramic, 3D design and sculpture courses. Students find the calming space to be a welcomed break from traditional classrooms. The studio is named after Kathryn Roe, who was a longtime instructor and a part of the creation of the first pottery studio at WCC. The original location of the studio was by Boulevard Park, near the Bellingham Bay waterfront. 

Immediately across from Roe Studio, you will find our tennis courts, which are open to the public. Here you will also discover Orca Field, where our soccer matches are held.

8. AUXILIARY SERVICES BUILDING (ASB)

From the Roe Studio, follow the footpath to make your way over to the

Here you will find: 

Facilities, Operations & Grounds Services: Offices. 
Copy & Print Services: Available for students to use if they have complex print jobs or large-scale projects, like posters. If you join one of our student clubs, you will likely use these services to promote your events and meetings!

Follow the path behind the Auxiliary Services building to find the WCC Community Garden. Where you can get your hands dirty and enjoy the wonderful vegetables you’ve helped grow.

Note: All students at WCC are able to take home free produce regardless of their involvement with the garden.

9. KELLY HALL (KLY) 

Kelly Hall (KLY) is a short walk behind Roe Studio and Cascade Hall, from the Auxiliary Services  Building. 

Here you will find: 

Early Childhood Education program: Various classrooms and the coordination hub. 

You can also find a recently finished mural painted by former WCC student Clarissa Felix. This is WCC’s first mural, located on the second floor of Kelly Hall. Head on in to check it out!

Fun Fact: This building was named after Dr. Sam Kelly in 1998, who served as the first chairman on WCC’s Board of Trustees.

10. KULSHAN HALL (KUL) 

Next you will walk from Kelly Hall to Kulshan Hall (Kul). 

Here you will find: 

Science Labs: for chemistry and biology as well as classrooms.

Outside of Kulshan Hall you can see the Levitating Sphere sculpture, created by Seattle Solstice in 2003. It was created from a massive boulder that was carried to Whatcom County thousands of years ago by a glacier. It sat for thousands of years until it was blasted apart by dynamite in 1965 during the construction of Interstate 5. 

Fun Fact: Kulshan is the original Lummi name for Mt. Baker. 

11. PHYLLIS & CHARLES LEARNING COMMONS (LRN) 

Across from Kulshan Hall you will find the Phyllis & Charles Self Learning Commons (LRN), commonly referred to as the Learning Commons or LRN. 

Here you will find: 

FIRST FLOOR: 
Learning Center: Offering tutoring to all students in all subjects. The Learning Center is home to the Writing Center, One-on-One Tutoring and online tutoring. There are drop-in options, or you can schedule ahead of time. All tutors are paid student employees. This could be a great opportunity if you are looking for a part-time job!
Student Help Desk: Provides support and equipment for students, faculty and staff. 
Media Center: Includes sound-isolated recording rooms with full audio and video set ups, a photography studio, editing stations, a 44” poster printer, 3D printer services, and more! 
Makerspace: Home to adjustable-height benches, work tables tools chests, vinyl and fabric customization tools, and a precision laser engraver/cutter. Safety training required before use. 
Cove Cafe: Stop by and enjoy some home made refreshments.

SECOND FLOOR:  
Library: Offering a large collection of books as well as access to computers and online libraries. Printer and copy machines are also available for students to use. 

THIRD FLOOR:
Here is where you can find the Math Center and Testing Center. When given permission by Access and Disability Services, students may take their tests here with additional time.

12. CEDAR HALL (CDR) 

Cedar Hall (CDR) is a state-of-the-art residence hall and is home to up to 230 students. There are a variety of apartment styles and plenty of community spaces for studying, meeting, and socializing. 

Here you will find: 

• Fully furnished units with kitchens and smart TVs
• Laundry facility
• Wi-Fi access
• Community spaces on each floor
• On-site Residence Life programs, events and activities
• Community kitchen
• Drug- and alcohol-free environment

Come build your community at Cedar Hall! 
Schedule a tour by appointment here: www.whatcom.edu/housing

Behind Cedar Hall you will find the WTA Cordata Bus Station. Which you can ride free of charge, by showing your WCC student ID (Orca Card)

13. FOUNDATION BUILDING (FND) 

Cross the street to Calluna Court and the Foundation Building (FND).

Here you will find: 

• WCC Foundation 
• Conference & events department
• Community & Continuing Education 
• Area Health Education Center for Western Washington (AHECWW)
• Communications & Marketing department

The WCC Foundation was founded in 1987 with the primary goal of supporting students in achieving their academic goals by providing grants and scholarships as well as by other financial support for tuition, books, and other expenses. 

The WCC Foundation empowers global citizens by supporting students in achieving their potential and inspiring them to give back to their communities. 
Check out scholarship opportunities online:  www.whatcom.edu/foundation 

14. COMMUNITY TRANSITIONS BUILDING (CT): COMING SOON

The Community Transitions building is a Special Education program within Bellingham Public Schools that serves students from ages 18-22.The program, which has been operating at a different location, will continue to offer courses to support independent living, employment, and post-secondary training. This new location is a significant step for the larger community in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

15. HEALTH PROFESSIONS EDUCATION CENTER (HPEC)

The Health Professions Education Center (HPEC) is not on the walking tour but can be visited by appointment. 

Here you will find:

WCC’s health professions programs: nursing, medical assisting, physical therapy, massage therapy and more. 

This building project was an innovative public-private partnership between local developers and the Whatcom Community College (WCC) Foundation, the College’s non-profit fundraising entity. It was constructed to be used by WCC’s health professions programs like nursing, medical assisting, physical therapy, massage therapy, and more.  

Thank you for visiting!

We hope you have enjoyed exploring WCC and learning about our campus
and programs. If you have any questions about anything you saw or read
on this tour, or if you would like to request more information, please feel
free to contact Outreach Services or Orca Central. We look forward to seeing you around campus again soon!

We Want to Meet You

Want to get a more in-depth look at our amazing campus? There are several opportunities year-round to visit campus and learn more about WCC and our programs. For a listing of all our in-person and virtual events, check out www.whatcom.edu/calendar.

Explore WCC’s Areas of Study

WCC offers a wide selection of things to study! Some pathways lead to the next phase of study at a university with a transfer degree, or you can pursue your applied bachelor’s degree in business management, IT networking, and social work. Other degrees prepare you to go directly into the workforce, some refresh your skills, and some are just for pure enjoyment. 

Stay Connected 

Download the Navigate 360 app: www.whatcom.edu/nav360.  Stay on top of what’s happening each quarter. You can make appointments with your advisor or instructor, set notifications, make a to-do list, see upcoming events, and more. 

Location: Orca Central- Heiner Center 
Phone: 360.383.3080
Email: outreach@whatcom.edu

ORCA CENTRAL:
Location: Heiner Center  
Phone: 360.383.3080 
Email: orcacentral@whatcom.edu
URL: whatcom.edu/orcacentral