As part of our continuing effort to update Union parents, we take this opportunity to fill you in on much that has happened since the beginning of the year. (If you would like to receive our email newsletter, please contact the Parents Program Office at Parents_Program@union.edu.)
First, the Class of 2009 began its year with Freshman Orientation. This is an intense four-day program of meetings with advisors and administrators, a chance to meet roommates and set up rooms, attend social gatherings and learn about the campus and academic life. At an orientation session for parents, Dean of Students Steve Leavitt gave some good advice: Be sure to let your student deal with issues that arise so that they have experience in resolving conflicts. Dealing with professors on grading and figuring out what to do about a messy roommate is a critical part of a college experience.
Interim President Jim Underwood hit the ground running this fall, connecting with students and meeting first years and their families at freshman sendoffs before they arrived on campus. We were pleased that more than 20 percent of the freshmen attended a sendoff and many had a chance to meet Jim.
We are also pleased that so many parents are involved in so many ways: finding internships and job opportunities for students, supporting the Union Parents Fund, volunteering at college fairs, being panelists and hosting events.
We hope you were able to join us at Homecoming and Family Weekend in late October, a time full of activities for parents and alumni alike. The Parents Association meeting was a terrific opportunity for parents to meet many of the people involved in their students' lives including administrators from the Dean of Students Office, Undergraduate Education, Residential Life, Student Activities, and the Becker Career Center.
Finally, we have kicked off this year's Parents Fund, part of the Union Fund (Annual Fund) that supports the day-to-day needs of the College. Most gifts are unrestricted and cover areas such as student life, faculty and facilities. But many parents choose to designate their gifts to things like athletics or an academic department. Whatever you choose, your participation gives an important vote of confidence for Union. Thank you.
If you have any questions, please contact Lis Bischoff-Ormsbee, director of the parents program, at Parents_Program@union.edu. She is always glad to help.
Warm Regards,
Lori and Peter Nicholson
Co-chairs,
Parents Association