UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — More than 9,500 Penn State students and families gathered for the annual Family Weekend from Oct. 18-20, enjoying a series of activities that showcased the University’s academic and student engagement programs. Hosted by the Penn State Parents Program, a unit in the division of Student Affairs, the weekend highlighted Penn State’s commitment to student and family engagement.
A key component of the weekend’s success was the support from more than 75 student and parent volunteers, including members of the Parents Council and Parent and Family Ambassadors. Volunteers worked over 230 shifts throughout the weekend, welcoming guests, hosting events and providing support to ensure a positive experience.
“We could not host this weekend without the incredible support of our volunteers. In addition to planning and working at the event, volunteers bring positive energy that you can feel throughout the weekend,” said Cyndy Hill, director of the Parents Program. “Seeing families reunite with their students and enjoying the events and Penn State’s beautiful campus makes all of the work throughout the year worth it.”
The weekend kicked off with the Ice Cream Social, which served nearly 1,600 guests, followed by Fam Fest, a lively family carnival featuring inflatable games, live music, crafts, and a performance by a college parenting comedian. Other popular activities throughout the weekend included tours of Beaver Stadium, the Old Main Bell Tower, and the Breazeale Nuclear Reactor.
“As a proud member of the Parents Council and Penn State alumna, it’s heartwarming to experience students and their families reconnect after their students first few months of the fall semester while also welcoming new families, sharing smiles, and enjoying the vibrant campus and weekend event together,” shared Michele Petras, vice chair of the Parents Council.
The Parents Program serves as a central resource for families, providing engagement opportunities, information on the Penn State student experience, regular communication, and individual support. Family Weekend is one example of how the program fosters meaningful connections between students, families and Penn State.
For more information on the Penn State Parent’s Program, upcoming events, or how to get involved, visit studentaffairs.psu.edu/parents.