Welcome to the Denison community! Whether we met during our Summer Welcome Receptions across the country, online in our Denison Ready webinar series, or are just connecting now, we are so excited for you and your student to begin this journey with us.
As your student takes this step into their college experience, we want to recognize and celebrate the vital role you continue to play in their journey. Whether it is offering advice, a word of encouragement, or simply extending a listening ear, you are an essential part of their success. This Family Guide newsletter is designed to keep you informed, connected, and equipped to help your student navigate this exciting new chapter and stay up to date on all things Denison. Together, we can help them thrive, both inside and outside the classroom.
Families are an essential part of the Denison community, and we can’t wait to see you and your student on campus soon! Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.
Go Big Red!
Bryce Benton
Associate Director, Family Engagement & Lifelong Learning
As your student's move-in day approaches, these conversation starters can help spark meaningful discussions and build excitement for the journey ahead:
What are you most excited to dive into, both in the classroom and around campus?
What do you think might feel different or challenging at first, and how can we brainstorm ways to handle it together?
How do you feel about taking the reins on your own schedule and day-to-day responsibilities?
What are some ways you’re thinking about connecting with others and finding your people on The Hill?
Checking in now is a wonderful way to offer reassurance, share in the excitement, and help your student feel supported as they step onto campus.
Preparing for Move-In Day
Move-In dates:
Aug. 12: Early move-in for football
Aug. 18: Early move-in for cross-country, field hockey, soccer, and volleyball
Aug. 18: Early move-in for the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program
Aug. 19: Move-in day for first-year students coming from abroad
Aug. 21: First-year student move-in day
Aug. 25: Upperclass student move-in day
Athletes will be contacted by their coach with early move-in details.
Early move-in students will join orientation with their full class cohort.
Pro-tip from residential communities: Preparing for residential living
For many students, this is their first time sharing a living space. Setting clear expectations gives everyone a common understanding. If concerns arise, please encourage your student to discuss them with their roommate first. This is a great opportunity to learn life skills about negotiating differences. The next step your student could take is to speak with their Community Advisor (CA), who is trained to facilitate roommate conversations.
Learn more about residential communities and housing here.
Class of 2030 Family Orientation
Attending family orientation provides a clear picture of what your student will experience, from academics to campus life, so you can better support them during this significant transition.
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.
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!
Knowlton Center for Career Exploration
The Knowlton Center for Career Exploration is recognized as one of the best career centers in the country and encourages students to take advantage of their program offerings early on in their Denison career.
Students are automatically signed up for the Exploration Career Community and will receive a weekly email from Ashley Strausser with upcoming events, opportunities, and simple ways to get involved. Early involvement at Knowlton is a great way to ensure your student leaves Denison feeling confident and ready for what's next!
Two quick things before your student arrives:
Bring one business casual outfit. Your student may have the chance to attend an employer event or networking opportunity this fall. Having something ready means you can say yes when those opportunities pop up.
Knowlton Connect This is your student’s hub for all things career-related: events, job and internship postings, career content, alumni connections, and more. They’ll use it a lot during their time at Denison, and they can explore it now at knowltonconnect.denison.edu. Students can sign in using their Denison credentials.
Stay connected
Keep up with everything at Denison via the links below and by following us on our social platforms.
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