Meet Whilst

Written by Shanvi Sinha

Wednesday, May 7, 2025

New Amazon Locker on campus ups the convenience factor for deliveries.

Have you ever ordered something online and wondered how to time the delivery just right between classes, work and a social life? ÃÛÌÒÊÓÆµ and Amazon just made that a whole lot easier.

Since the end of winter quarter, SU students, faculty and staff have had access to Whilst, the campus’s first-ever Amazon Locker (fun fact: The name Whilst was randomly selected from a database of Amazon Locker names provided by the retailer.)

Tucked conveniently on the third floor of the Student Center—right next to the skybridge to Campion, Chardin and Murphy residence halls—this vibrant blue locker system (consisting of several compartments) has been quietly transforming the way students and university employees receive packages.

How It Started

The idea to bring an Amazon locker to SU came from the university’s senior leadership, Campus Services and Information Technology Services (ITS). After examining similar models at other institutions, they collaborated to bring this to campus. Amazon recommended three lockers for a campus of our size and location, with Whilst being the first locker installed here.

“As a current staff member and former student who lived on campus, I’m thrilled to see this resource added to our campus service offerings,” says Emma Adkins, project manager with ITS. “It’s a package solution that truly delivers—Whilst adding a bit of fun to everyday errands!”

How Whilst Works

Using Whilst is easy and takes only a few steps:

  1. During checkout on Amazon, enter ZIP code 98122 and select Amazon Locker – Whilst (ÃÛÌÒÊÓÆµ, 1000 E James Way, Seattle, WA 98122).
  2. Once your package is delivered, you’ll receive a pickup code on the Amazon app.
  3. Use the code to unlock the designated compartment.

The locker includes 42 compartments of various sizes, suitable for items ranging from small tech gadgets to bulkier supplies. In addition to picking up packages, users can also return Amazon orders at the locker—offering added flexibility and convenience. Packages can be delivered to the lockers during the Student Center’s public operating hours. Community members may retrieve their packages anytime they have access to the building.

Why It Matters

With so many students relying on Amazon for essentials, the new locker provides a secure and flexible way to receive deliveries. It also reduces mailroom congestion and makes receiving packages more convenient.

This service also allows families to send items directly to their students, providing peace of mind that packages are secure until pickup.

This initiative also ties into Strategic Direction Goals #3 and #5:

  • Goal 3 focuses on enhancing the student experience with accessible, supportive services.
  • Goal 5 emphasizes long-term growth through efficient operations and technology upgrades.

Behind the scenes, the success of this program depends on maintaining a strong relationship with ÃÛÌÒÊÓÆµ’s external partners, particularly Amazon. The university is working to ensure delivery drivers receive clear directions to the locker, minimizing any added burden on campus staff while encouraging broader use among SU affiliates.

And while the locker’s bright blue exterior wasn’t chosen to match SU’s branding, it happens to align with the university’s secondary marketing color, creating a visually cohesive touchpoint in the Student Center.

What’s Next

Since its launch, the Amazon Locker has already seen regular use and university teams are currently monitoring demand to determine potential locker locations for future installations.

So, whether you’re ordering books, supplies or just treating yourself to something fun, consider sending your next Amazon order to Whilst.

Written by Shanvi Sinha

Wednesday, May 7, 2025