Family Weekend – A Cherished Tradition
DSA News
October 12, 2023
By Dr. Jerrell Sherman — 832-842-6177
In keeping with a cherished annual tradition, the University of Houston (UH) recently welcomed families and supporters of its students to campus for a weekend brimming with camaraderie and engagement. From Friday, September 22nd to Sunday, September 24th, this heartwarming event, spearheaded by the Dean of Students Office, sought to foster a sense of community and connection among attendees through an array of activities, culinary delights, musical performances, and enlightening educational sessions.
The allure of Family Weekend was evident from the moment registration opened in June, as eager families and supporters seized the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of their UH students. For many, this event provided a perfect chance to meet their loved ones' friends, mentors, professors, administrators, and coaches who are integral components of their academic journey and support network.
The festivities commenced on a bright Friday morning with a warm welcome from the University Career Services office, followed by an informative campus tour and the convivial "Coffee with a Cop" event, generously sponsored by the University of Houston Police Department. As the day unfolded, participants had the privilege of attending open houses and educational sessions hosted by distinguished campus entities such as Counseling and Psychological Services, Career Services Office, the Women’s and Gender Resource Center, Veterans Services, and UH Wellness.
Friday evening ended with the Division of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Office hosting a delightful Fish Fry dinner in the Houston Room within the Student Center South building which featured a performance by the UH Student Choral Choir. Following dinner, was a screening of "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse," presented by the Student Programming Board and Dean of Students Office during Family Movie Night in the Student Center South Theater.
Saturday morning brought a diverse array of activities, including opportunities to explore Learning Abroad programs, engage in a friendly game of Family Feud, gain insights into the UH Honors College, and attend a session related to mental health and wellness—all thoughtfully curated within the welcoming confines of the Student Center South building.
The excitement then shifted to the TDECU Football Stadium, where attendees congregated for the eagerly anticipated Family Weekend pre-football game tailgate. A highlight of the weekend, this event featured an entertaining performance by the Level One Band who kept attendees dancing and grooving until the kickoff of the UH versus SHSU football game.
As the weekend ended on Sunday, attendees had the opportunity to attend a Family Weekend Mass at the A.D. Bruce Religion Center and witness the UH versus Oklahoma women’s soccer game at the Carl Lewis International Complex. In total, just under 1,000 attendees, comprising over 300 families, registered for, and participated in UH Family Weekend, transforming the occasion into a resounding success.
The UH Dean of Students Office extends heartfelt gratitude to all the departments, dedicated staff members, and student leaders whose unwavering commitment, volunteerism, and support contributed to making this weekend an unforgettable and enriching experience for all who participated. Family Weekend at the University of Houston remains a testament to the institution's commitment to nurturing strong bonds within its diverse and vibrant community.