The ƼӰԭ recently hosted a successful Latinx Parent Welcome event, drawing over 130 attendees, including parents, students and community members. This gathering was a vibrant celebration of the Latinx community and an opportunity for families to connect with the various resources and support systems available on campus.
Held at the beautiful Basin Street Club located inside Mackay Stadium, the event was graced by notable University leadership, including President Brian Sandoval and Provost Jeffrey Thompson. Their presence underscored the University's commitment to inclusivity and to fostering an environment where Latinx students and their families feel welcomed and valued. President Sandoval and Provost Thompson took the time to answer questions from the audience, addressing concerns ranging from academic opportunities to campus safety and support services.
In addition to President Sandoval and Provost Thompson, deans from various colleges were also in attendance, representing the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Business, the School of Medicine, the Graduate School, The First-Generation Student Center and many other supporters. Each dean provided insights into their respective colleges, highlighting programs and initiatives designed to support Latinx students in their academic journeys. Their engagement with the families helped to demystify the University experience, showcasing the accessibility of faculty and staff and the commitment to student success across all majors and fields.
Students and families were also introduced to a variety of Latinx services and departments on campus. Representatives from the Latino Research Center, Latino Student Advisory Board, Undocupack, Latino Medical Student Association and other key departments shared information about the resources available to support Latinx students. From mentorship programs and academic advising to cultural events and community-building activities, these departments play a crucial role in helping students navigate university life while celebrating their cultural heritage.
Parents and families had the opportunity to engage directly with these representatives, asking questions and learning more about how the University supports Latinx students both academically and personally. This interaction was a valuable aspect of the event, as it allowed families to see firsthand the depth and broad scale of resources dedicated to students' success.
The atmosphere was one of warmth and community, with many parents expressing gratitude for the University's efforts to reach out and include them in their children's educational journey. For many families, particularly those who may be first-generation college-goers, the event served as an important bridge, helping to build trust and understanding between the University and the Latinx community.
Throughout the evening, the overarching message was clear: the ƼӰԭ is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students, and it recognizes the vital role that families play in the success of Latinx students. By bringing together University leaders, deans and Latinx services, the event provided a comprehensive overview of the resources available and reaffirmed the University’s dedication to diversity and inclusion.
