I want to extend a warm welcome to both the new and the returning parents who are part of the Seattle Pacific University community. Your student has made an excellent choice to join SPU.
I was fortunate to attend SPU, and my time here played a large role in determining my life's path. My husband and I are thrilled our son chose SPU, and we're very pleased with the spiritual, academic, and social growth that we've seen in him and with the outstanding quality of his education.
All of us on the Parent Council are excited to invite you to join us as we journey together in this season of parenting college-aged students.
We're all at different stages of this transition. Some are dealing with the emotions that come with having their first child leave for college. Others are nearing the end of their time here. Regardless of our experience, though, we share common goals: We want to stay connected to our students, to get to know other SPU parents and students, and to learn as much as we can about the University.
The SPU Parent Council exists to encourage and strengthen such important relationships, especially through several special events we host during the year — events where you can experience a taste of campus life with your students, meet other parents, and hear firsthand from SPU staff and administrators how your students are "engaging the culture and changing the world."
My husband and I have enjoyed getting to know many of our fellow parents through these events, and we encourage you to get connected as well through various opportunities, including:
Don't forget to stay "in the loop" for other exciting events and opportunities. Check this page for news and updates, get important information through the main Parents and Families website, and sign-up for monthly e-newsletter updates by emailing parents@spu.edu.
Dorothy VanNess
2011–12 SPU Parent Council President