It wasn’t too long ago families of Baker students were helping their children move onto campus and saying their goodbyes for the school year.
But families will soon have the opportunity to see their sons or daughters on campus again at Baker University’s Family Weekend.
“Family Weekend is a great time for our students and family to reconnect after the start of the year,” Dean of Students Cassy Bailey said. “We love welcoming back families and providing opportunities for our students to show off their Baker pride.”
Bailey said last year Family Weekend received a whole revamp, with several changes and additions to the events being offered to the students and their families.
The changes were so successful last year, they will be part of the weekend again this year.
Some of the events being offered Friday through Sunday, to Baker students and their families, are football and soccer games, a pep rally, chapel service, a family meal in Allen Dining Hall, classroom showcases and receptions with University President Pat Long and other faculty and staff.
The Quayle Bible Collection and Old Castle Museum also will be open for families to visit.
Another event during Family Weekend is the second annual Baker’s Got Talent contest. Career Development Center Coordinator Kelly Burns said those in charge of the revamp wanted a way of showcasing students, and even family acts, on stage and in the spotlight.
“(The) idea of a talent show just fit perfectly,” Burns said.
Greek organizations are getting involved as well, hosting events such as open houses and lunches for families of both new and current sorority and fraternity members.
“I’m always excited for the opportunity to meet families,” Brett Bruner, director of student life, said. “It’s one of my favorite times of the year.”
Family Weekend is not only a way for families to see what Baker life is like for their sons or daughters, but it’s also a way of welcoming these families into the Baker family.
“(Family Weekend) is a great opportunity to connect the entire family to the university,” Bruner said.
Not only is it a great way of connecting families to Baker, Bruner also said it’s a great way for parents to meet the parents of other Baker students.
While only about 40 families had registered for Family Weekend as of Monday, Bailey said families are still encouraged to come and participate in all the scheduled activities, regardless of registering.
“I hope many students and their families take part in (the) exciting schedule,” Bailey said. “There is truly something for everybody.”