Family Weekend 2010
Family Weekend from September 24-26, 2010, in conjunction with International Festival, broke historical numbers in its three years of being instituted. Over 500 parents, family members and students attended and participated in this year’s theme, "Where Niner Nation Happens”. It was a beautiful weekend for parents to visit and experience UNC Charlotte just like their student.
Registration began Friday in the mezzanine of the Student Union from 5:00pm-8:00pm. Parents picked up their membership packets that were filled with resources and Niner Nation Family gear, in addition to a really cool t-shirt that had everyone on and off campus talking about! From 8:00pm-12pm it was time to "Take Over the Student Union", celebrating the Unions one year anniversary. Parents and students got an opportunity to take unique family pictures in Wild West photos or have a portrait drawn by our talented Caricature artist. The Campus Activity Board sponsored the well renowned hypnotist Paul Ramsey. Some parents and students that were feeling brave also took full advantage of the opportunity to "ride the bull" in the lobby.
On Saturday, registration started at 8:00am along with a continental breakfast and welcome from Chancellor Dubois. At 9:45am, parents who liked to take risks reported to Venture for the High Ropes challenge. The remaining parents stayed to participate in two wonderful and very diverse presentations. The first was given by a panel of our experts: the Dean of Students of Dr. Michele Howard, the Associate Vice Chancellor for Health Programs and Services Dr. David Spano, and the Associate Director for Housing and Residence Life Allan Blattner. Their presentations gave the parents the opportunity to ask question about their concerns as it pertains to the University. This proved to be extremely helpful to the parents by giving them insight that they normally would have not received. The second presentation, which was going on simultaneously, was organized by Director for Fraternity and Sorority Life Michelle Guobadia and the Associate Director for Student Activities Gus Burkett. These two presenters gave the parents and students resources and knowledge about the variety of options the students have to get involved through on-campus organizations including Greek life.
The parents were then ready for the main attraction, which was the International Festival; this 35 year old festival that represents over 100 countries and celebrates our diversity on campus also saw record numbers. There were food vendors and student organizations selling their exquisite cuisine and providing culture and dancing as well as featuring beautiful art work and jewels that were for sale.
Parents also got the opportunity to compete with their student. Recreational Services put together badminton and ping pong tables for some "friendly" competition in Belk Gym.
After working up a sweat and enjoying the festivities at the International Festival, parents and students wound down at the Mix and Mingle sponsored by Chancellor Dubois and his wife Lisa Lewis-Dubois. Parents, students, and administrators ate hor’dourves and drank wine while learning about each other in an intimate setting. More chances were also given to parents to win nice give-aways. This was definitely one of the highlights of the weekend.
On Sunday, an interdenominational Christian Service was conducted by Pastor Russ Dean from Park Road Baptist Church in Charlotte North Carolina, which featured Voices of Eden Gospel Choir — a choir comprised of students who are known for their beautiful voices and traveling all over the United States. The service was followed by a brunch and final give-aways before the closing.
Family Weekend was a huge success and proved once again the importance of UNC Charlotte parents and students having the opportunity to bond and visit while experiencing their college and at the same time enjoying and celebrating the diversity on campus through International Festival.
