Loved ones recently flocked to The University of New Mexico campus for Fall Family Weekend hosted by the Office of Parents and Families and UNM Parent and Family Association.
Nearly 550 attendees from a total of 20 different states came to enjoy the events, which provided families an opportunity to see their students thriving on campus, meet administrators and learn more about the University’s academic and research missions. The weekend began on Friday with an evening kick-off reception at the University Club for food, drinks and entertainment.
Walking tours of UNM’s historic buildings and museums were offered Friday and Saturday, respectively, giving loved ones an opportunity to explore the campus and learn about its history. Museum tour attendees were able to visit the UNM Art Museum, the Museum of Southwest Biology and the Maxwell Museum of Anthropology. Nearly 280 people attended the Fall Family Weekend Tailgate and Homecoming football game. Vanessa Jones, a parent to a freshman student, enjoyed visiting her son, meeting his friends, and speaking with Dean of Students Nasha Torrez.
“Our son decided to attend UNM without knowing anyone. As a parent, that is scary. As I was sitting on the plane yesterday, preparing to fly home, I had such a sense of peace and joy," she said. "It was great for my mom heart to get eyes on him. His first year at UNM could not be going any better!"
After the tailgate, families got to experience the Lobo homecoming game against Hawai’i and celebrate victory with their college students. The weekend’s events were so popular tickets sold out.
Fall Family Weekend also coincided with showings of The Lion King at Popejoy Hall. Families who visited for the weekend were able to purchase discounted tickets for showings held Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.
Throughout the weekend the UNM Parent and Family Association raffled off three different baskets of goodies, a wine and cheese pairing, a night out in Albuquerque and a Lobo spirit basket, to benefit the association’s scholarship program.