This fall’s Family Weekend at Monmouth College will hold a special meaning, as students welcome their families to campus for a variety of activities Sept. 24-26.
In the spring of 2020, every weekend was family weekend, as the pandemic forced Monmouth students to leave campus and complete the semester while learning remotely – typically from a computer in their home.
The fall of 2020 brought the reverse effect, as students were encouraged not to return home once they arrived on campus in August. Fall break was canceled, and events such as Homecoming and Family Weekend were either held virtually or not at all.
So this weekend’s activities will allow parents and other family members to see firsthand – many for the first time – all the elements that make up their student’s residential college experience.
“As the College’s mission statement says, ‘We empower students to realize their full potential, live meaningful lives, pursue successful careers and shape their communities and the world through service and leadership,'” said Monmouth President Clarence R. Wyatt. “Family Weekend is a great time to come share this experience.”
Friday’s events include a performance by speed painter Evan Struck in Wells Theater and a Family Weekend concert in Dahl Chapel and Auditorium.
Saturday’s events begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house at 9 a.m. at the new Monmouth College Student Health Center on the first floor of McMichael Residence Hall across from the College Bookstore.
Legacy students will be the guests of honor at the College’s 19th annual Legacy Brunch, which ends at 11:30 a.m., just in time for an all-campus cookout on The Quad behind Stockdale Student Center. That meal, which will feature carnival-style food, will be served through 1 p.m.
In the same area from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., inflatables, games, face painting and kettle corn will add to the carnival atmosphere, promising plenty of fun and smiles for members of the students’ families of all ages.
The Monmouth College football team has an off week that weekend, but the “other football” – men’s soccer – will be in action, hosting Cornell College at 1:30 p.m. at Peacock Memorial Athletic Park. Shuttle service will be available to the game, which serves as the Midwest Conference opener for the Fighting Scots.
Saturday’s events will wind down with a special dessert event outside Dahl Chapel, attracting families for that evening’s entertainment, an improv comedy show.
***Report Courtesy of Monmouth College***
