UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Many Penn State parents have been closely involved in their student’s education from daycare through high school. That involvement doesn’t have to end when their student starts his or her career at the University Park campus.
Penn State’s Parents Program offers several opportunities for parents of University Park students to stay involved, according to Jennifer Mallen, program director.
"We’re creating meaningful opportunities for involvement in ways to add significant value to the University," Mallen said.
All parents and family members of University Park undergraduates are automatically members of the Penn State Parents Society, an organization committed to strengthening the partnership between the University and family members. There is no cost to be a member.
Within the Parents Society is the Penn State Parents Council, the governing body of the society. The council meets twice annually and offers input regarding parental engagement to the vice president for student affairs, the vice president and dean for undergraduate education, and the Parents Program director.
The Parents Program is seeking applications for membership to the council, and also for two related committees — the Parent Ambassadors Committee and the Parents Fundraising Committee. The deadline for all applications is Dec. 2.
The Parent Ambassadors Committee provides support for the outreach efforts of the Parents Program. Members serve as parent representatives at a number of University events for prospective, new and continuing parents and family members throughout the year — including Parents & Families Weekend each fall.
“The committee is comprised of parents who want to enhance communication between parents and Penn State,” Mallen said. “They would volunteer to help with various events at University Park or, when needed, in their geographic locations.”
The Parents Fundraising Committee (PFC) provides volunteer support for the philanthropic activity of the Division of Student Affairs. The PFC is committed to developing a vibrant, successful program of parent giving and provides advice, assistance and feedback regarding fundraising efforts.
"The Parents Fundraising Committee seeks volunteers who are personally committed to supporting Penn State philanthropically and are willing to reach out and engage other parents in conversations about the importance of parent giving," said Kimberly Field, Director of Development, Student Affairs.
For more information about these volunteer opportunities, contact the Penn State Parents Program at parents@psu.edu or call 814-863-1313; or to access the application materials, visit http://www.parents.psu.edu/involvement.shtml online.