SMU is “rolling out the red carpet” for Family Weekend, one of the university’s oldest traditions.
Sponsored by Student Foundation and organized by the Family Weekend committee, the three-day event is devoted to SMU students and their families. The weekend offers parents the chance to become familiar with the university through events planned by the Family Weekend committee.
“A lot more work is being done this year to incorporate the ‘We’re Rolling Out the Red Carpet’ theme into the weekend, to work more closely with faculty and staff for presentations and lectures and to improve the complete experience for visiting families,” said Jared Dovers, a committee coordinator.
While students are in classes, families can attend various educational seminars, such as career development and involvement on campus seminars. Families can also go to a handful of open houses sponsored by the university schools and organizations, including the School of Engineering, the Cox School of Business, and the recently added open house hosted by the Multicultural Student Affairs department. In addition, there are two faculty spotlights on Dr. William Babcock, associate professor of theology, and Dr. Ronald Wetherington, associate professor of anthropology. Families also have the opportunity to attend classes with their children.
There are many events for students and families to participate in together. The most notable include the President’s Luncheon sponsored by the Mother’s Club, the Family Barbeque sponsored by the Dad’s Club (which will also include Dean Jasper Neel’s infamous “Go to Class” speech), the football game against Nevada State Saturday, and the Talent Show Friday.
The Talent Show is the highlight of Family Weekend for many families because it gives everyone a chance to relax and enjoy a night of entertainment from a talented mix of SMU students.
“The Talent Show lets the families see what SMU is all about- school spirit, coming together as a community and working together, which is ultimately the point of Family Weekend,” explained Betsey Bender, the Family Weekend chair.
