WMU News

Annual Family Festival weekend scheduled for Oct. 15-17

Oct. 5, 1999

KALAMAZOO -- Spending quality time with the family will be high on the agenda for those attending Western Michigan University's annual Family Festival from Friday through Sunday, Oct. 15-17.

A special weekend of activities, the annual event involves whole families in college life for three days. It is sponsored by the WMU Parents Association in the Division of Student Affairs for parents, guardians, family members and friends of WMU students.

"The weekend gives families and friends a chance to spend time together while sharing some of the experiences that make WMU a special place for learning and personal growth," says Dr. Diane K. Swartz, associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students.

Family Festival officially begins Friday evening with opportunities to enjoy a variety of athletic and entertainment events on campus and around town.

The evening will feature Tonic Sol-Fa, a nationally renowned a cappella musical group. Sponsored by WMU's Campus Activities Board, the group will perform at 8 p.m. in the Bernhard Center. More theatrically minded families may choose to attend the University Theatre presentation of "The Imaginary Invalid" at 8 p.m. in Shaw Theatre or see the show at 8 p.m. on Saturday.

Other Saturday activities include campus tours from 1 to 3 p.m. starting at the Bernhard Center. The tours will give students a chance to show their families where much of their learning and growing takes place.

WMU Parents Association members and their families are invited to attend a tailgate from 3:30 to 5:45 p.m. at Hyames Field prior to the 6 p.m. football game between the WMU Broncos and University at Buffalo Bulls.

Among those on hand to meet with families will be Dr. Elson S. Floyd, WMU president, as well as Dr. Theresa A. Powell, vice president for student affairs, and other student affairs staff members. The event also will include performances by a WMU pep band, the Bronco cheer team and Buster Bronco, the school mascot.

Parents Association members who have yet to purchase tailgate tickets should call Pat Hale at (616) 387-2150.

No specific activities have been scheduled for Sunday, giving students and their families time to explore campus or engage in other activities of their choosing, such as visiting the Student Recreation Center.

Free one-time passes to use the center during normal operating hours throughout Family Festival weekend will be available on a prearranged basis. In addition to trying out the center's climbing wall, families may participate in such activities as swimming, racquetball, volleyball, tennis and basketball.

For more information about festival registration and costs, contact the WMU Parents Association in the Division of Student Affairs at (616) 387-2152.

Media contact: Jeanne Baron, 616 387-8400, jeanne.baron@wmich.edu


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