Annual Family Weekend Approaches

The Broyhill Adventure, open during Family Weekend. Photo by Elizabeth Banfield

By: Chelsea Sydnor

This weekend, the Gardner-Webb campus will be abuzz with activities for friends and family. The Office of Student Activities will be hosting its annual Family Weekend starting the evening of Friday, September 11th.

“It’s an opportunity within the first six weeks of school to have your parents come back and see how you’re doing,” said Karissa Weir, Director of Student Activities.

The activities will start off with Sweet Bingo on Friday night. Prizes will include spirit items from the Gardner-Webb bookstore. Desserts will also be provided.

On Saturday morning during brunch, representatives from the Office of Student Development, including Vice President Dr. Dee Hunt and Dean of Students Sarah Currie will be available to answer questions from parents.

“The brunch is a very low-key, informal event,” said Weir. “It’s a chance for parents to find about out what is happening around campus.”

Families gathered in Stewart Hall Photo by Hannah Haggerty
Families gathered in Stewart Hall.
Photo by Hannah Haggerty

Saturday afternoon will not have any activities allowing students and parents to have some personal time around campus. The Broyhill Adventure Course will be open for those who are interested. There will be a tailgate dinner before the football game for the families by Lake Hollifield behind the Tucker Student Center. Families are also invited to attend the game against Elon University.

To wrap up the weekend, Campus Ministries will sponsor a family worship service in the Dover Chapel on Sunday morning.  The program will include many student-led aspects, such as performances from the Joyful Hands sign language ministry, as well as a sermon from Dr. Tracy Jessup.

“This service gives families the opportunity to worship together to conclude Family Weekend,” said Jessup. “Especially since not all students have been able to settle into a local church.”

Gardner-Webb encourages students and their families to participate in as many activities as possible this weekend.  Registration and participation fees are required for some events.

“We’re looking forward to a great weekend with pleasant weather,” said Weir.