2010–11 SPU Parent Council: A Place to Thrive
Welcome new and returning families!
For those families with a student just entering Seattle Pacific University, we're thrilled your student has chosen SPU. As parents of a new SPU student, you will soon forge bonds with SPU — and the Parent Council is delighted to welcome you into this community.
And for those families with returning students, the Parent Council looks forward to another exciting year together.
A Place to Grow
This year I find myself a parent of a returning SPU student — and of a new SPU student. My oldest daughter will graduate from SPU in Spring 2011. My middle daughter begins her SPU experience this September. I'll have so much more peace dropping our second daughter off at SPU, because I now have much more insight into the University.
As a member of the Parent Council, I've been fortunate to meet many members of the administration. In those meetings, I've heard their genuine passion for creating an environment in which students can thrive both spiritually and academically, and thereby be prepared to engage the culture from a Christian perspective.
My older daughter has also told me about the dedication of her professors and how they take a personal interest in her success. And, having had a chance to host some of my daughter's friends at our house, I've seen firsthand the wonderful enthusiasm and character of SPU students.
A Place to Connect
The members of the Parent Council are all parents of current SPU students. We understand and appreciate your questions and concerns. Regardless of whether you are part of a new or returning family, the Parent Council strives to assist you in becoming integrated into the SPU community.
Toward that end, the Parent Council partners with the University on certain events designed to develop connections between parents and to give parents insight into the unique mission of SPU.
For new parents, Welcome Week (held September 23–26) is a perfect opportunity to become better acquainted with SPU and all it has to offer while you help your student move in.
For all parents, we have signature events throughout the year.
- SPU Mom's Day. On November 6, moms can visit SPU's campus, reconnect with their students, meet other moms, and enjoy a day of fun activities. Learn more.
- Family Weekend. During January 20-22, 2011, families can return to campus to enjoy a range of athletic and arts events during Homecoming and Family Weekend.
- SPU Dad's Day. This popular springtime outing brings together dads, their students, pancakes, and a Seattle Sounders soccer game.
We encourage you to get connected and stay informed. SPU has much to offer students and parents alike. Updates about these and other events will occur on the parents' website and through the In the Loop monthly e-newsletter. Sign up by emailing parents@spu.edu.
SPU's Parent Council team looks forward to seeing you around campus!
Mary Kay Ausenhus
2010–11 SPU Parent Council President