ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ offers several opportunities for parents to stay engaged with their student's campus experience.
After a weekend filled with special events including a university update from President Leo M. Lambert, meet-and-greets with faculty, mini-classes, tailgating before the football game, and special student performances, many parents may find themselves wondering what they can do to expand their ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ involvement.
The answer is plenty, according to ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ’s assistant director of parent programs, Jake Pope ’01 G’13.
“There are several ways for parents to engage with the university while their students are on campus, and many of the opportunities don’t require a big time commitment,” says Pope. “We are always looking for parents to volunteer during opening and family weekends, at summer welcome events and through ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ’s Office of ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ.
“Because our alumni base is so young, we also rely on parents for their professional connections. ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ parents who start a relationship with our or join are often key resources for students and alumni as they seek internships, mentors or jobs.”
ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ parents Douglas and Barbara ’84 Kahle have become active volunteers since their son arrived on campus, serving on ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ’s Parents Council as members of the welcome and transition committee.
“Having the opportunity to volunteer at ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ has truly enriched our experience during Sam’s college years,” says Douglas. “It is such a rewarding experience to meet new families during move-in weekend and affirm what a great choice their students have made by attending ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ. We encourage all ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ parents to take advantage of the opportunities to get involved.”
Parents also play a vital role at ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ through philanthropy. During the 2012-13 academic year, parent giving soared past the $5.3 million mark for the first time, helping lift ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ’s overall fundraising total to a record $17.5 million. Gifts from parents make a positive impact across ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ’s campus, and many parents direct gifts to the program, experience or organization that means the most to their student.
Parents can contact ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ’s Office of Parent Programs to learn more about engaging with the university, and to tap into a variety of valuable resources. Through the Ask-A-Parent program, ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ parents field questions about various aspects of university life from a parent’s perspective. The , compiled by current parents and staff members, lists several activities and events that parents and their students can take advantage of on campus.
Visit elon.edu/parents or contact Jake Pope, assistant director of parent programs, to learn more.