As the days of summer come to a close, we are excited to welcome your student back to campus for another incredible chapter of discovery, growth, and connection! Whether they are diving deeper into their major, exploring brand-new interests, or looking ahead to life after graduation, this upcoming year is bound to be filled with exciting milestones and opportunities.
We know how vital your encouragement is to your student's journey, and we are committed to making sure you stay informed and supported every step of the way. Inside this edition, you'll find the latest campus updates, important dates to note on your calendar, and practical advice on how to stay closely connected while giving your student the room they need to flourish.
Thank you for being such an important part of our community. Here's to a fantastic year ahead!
Go Big Red!
Bryce Benton
Associate Director, Family Engagement & Lifelong Learning
P.S. Be sure to check out our parent website for helpful information and resources!
Conversation starters
As your student heads back to campus, these questions can help spark a meaningful conversation and get them thinking about how to make the most of the fall semester:
What specific goals or milestones are you setting for yourself in your classes this semester?
Are there student organizations, athletics, or activities you're excited to jump into or stay involved with this year?
What is your game plan for keeping stress in check when things get busy?
How can we best support you from home as you settle into your routine?
A quick check-in right now goes a long way in helping your student feel grounded, encouraged, and ready for a fantastic semester ahead.
Upcoming Calendar Dates:
Aug. 12: Early move-in for football
Aug. 18: Early move-in for cross-country, field hockey, soccer, and volleyball
Aug. 19: Move-in day for first-year students coming from abroad
Nov. 21: Residence halls close for Thanksgiving break
Nov. 29: Residence halls reopen following Thanksgiving break
Dec. 11: Fall semester classes end
Dec. 12 - 17: Study days and final exams
Dec. 18: Residence halls close for winter break
Make plans for Family Weekend!
Family Weekend is happening Friday, Sept. 25, through Sunday, Sept. 27!
Family Weekend is the perfect opportunity for Denison students, their families, and friends to come together and immerse themselves in our vibrant campus experience. You'll have the opportunity to learn from Denison's incredible faculty, connect with other Denison families, watch our talented student artists perform, tailgate and cheer on Big Red student-athletes, and so much more!
It is recommended to book local lodging early. Registrants may take advantage of a special Denison rate at the Cherry Valley Hotel for the weekend or check out a list of other nearby accommodations.
U.S. News places Denison among America’s most beautiful campuses
Denison's scenic campus was recently listed in the top five of U.S. News & World Report's most beautiful college campuses!
Big Red spring sports highlights
Denison athletics reached historic new heights following a monumental spring campaign, capped off by the baseball team's thrilling run to an NCAA championship and a seventh straight conference all-sports trophy.
Announcing Knobel Hall and the King Center for Data & Innovation
With over 150 performances, exhibitions, lectures, and guest artists, the arts are thriving on The Hill. Whether your student is looking to participate or simply enjoy the incredible talent around them, there are countless opportunities to get involved! Students should watch for an email from the Arts Department the week of Aug. 17 for more details on amazing opportunities.
We invite you to sign up for the Arts at Denison newsletter to stay connected with campus arts events and enjoy behind-the-scenes stories about all the amazing arts happening at Denison.
Denison Athletics
Building off our historic success last year, Denison athletics will be in full swing this fall. Check here to see if Denison athletics will be in your neck of the woods and show your Big Red pride! You can always watch our teams in action on the Denison Sports Network.
Denison’s Director of Athletics, Matt Tanney, will send an email to all student-athletes and their families soon, so be on the lookout for that message with important athletics updates and information!
Upcoming Campus Events
Have your student check WhatToDU for more information on events happening on campus.
Seniors only: First of the Lasts
Aug. 26 | 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. | Moon Hall
Knobel Hall & King Center for Data and Innovation Grand Opening: Student Reception
Join the Denison Community Service Association to kick off the semester with service. We will be working with Habitat for Humanity for the Playhouse Project Build.
Airport Shuttles
Starting this academic year, Denison will discontinue the University break airport shuttle service to support more flexible and personalized travel options for all students. This change will allow parents and families to book shuttles directly, offer personalized travel times (no more waiting at CMH!), and provide service availability during summer and independent breaks through other resources. More information on available services and resources can be found here.
Stay connected
Keep up with everything at Denison via the links below and by following us on our social platforms.