Parents’ Weekend at James Madison University is an annual event that provides an opportunity for families to connect with their students and experience the university community firsthand. The weekend is designed to celebrate the student’s accomplishments and provide parents with a glimpse into their child’s life on campus.

This year’s Parents’ Weekend will be held on October 21-23, 2023. The weekend will feature a variety of events, including:
- Welcome Reception: Provides an opportunity for parents to meet the university president, deans, and other administrators.
- Academic Showcase: Gives parents a chance to learn about their child’s academic progress and meet with their professors.
- Student Life Fair: Allows parents to explore the various student organizations and services available on campus.
- Sporting Events: Showcases the university’s athletic teams and gives parents a chance to cheer on their student-athletes.
- Cultural Performances: Features performances by the university’s music, dance, and theater groups.
In addition to these planned events, parents are encouraged to spend time with their students and explore the campus on their own. There are a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions located within walking distance of campus.
What to Expect at Parents’ Weekend
As a parent, you can expect to be welcomed with open arms at James Madison University. The university staff is dedicated to making Parents’ Weekend a positive and memorable experience for all.
- Be prepared to be impressed. JMU is a beautiful campus with state-of-the-art facilities. You’ll be amazed at the opportunities available to your child.
- Be prepared to learn. You’ll have the opportunity to meet with your child’s professors and learn about their academic progress. You’ll also have the chance to explore the campus and learn about the many resources available to students.
- Be prepared to have fun. Parents’ Weekend is a time to celebrate your child’s accomplishments. There will be plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy yourself.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your visit, it’s important to plan ahead. Here are a few tips:
- Book your hotel early. Hotels in Harrisonburg fill up quickly during Parents’ Weekend.
- Purchase your tickets for events in advance. Some events, such as sporting events and cultural performances, require tickets.
- Pack for all types of weather. The weather in Harrisonburg can be unpredictable in October.
- Bring your walking shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking on campus.
- Be prepared to spend money. There will be opportunities to purchase food, drinks, and souvenirs on campus.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Here are a few tips for making the most of your visit to James Madison University:
- Talk to your child about their experience. Ask them about their classes, their friends, and their goals.
- Attend the events that interest you. There are a variety of events to choose from, so pick the ones that you’ll enjoy the most.
- Explore the campus. Take some time to walk around campus and see the sights.
- Take advantage of the resources available to you. The university staff is there to help you make the most of your visit.
- Have fun! Parents’ Weekend is a time to celebrate your child’s accomplishments. Relax, enjoy yourself, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
James Madison University: A Great Place to Learn and Grow
James Madison University is a public research university located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. The university was founded in 1908 and has an enrollment of over 20,000 students. JMU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, and is known for its strong academic reputation.
In addition to its academic programs, JMU offers a variety of student life activities. The university has over 400 student organizations, as well as a variety of athletic teams. JMU is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a variety of performances and exhibitions throughout the year.
Why Choose James Madison University?
There are many reasons to choose James Madison University. Here are just a few:
- Strong academic reputation. JMU is known for its strong academic programs and is consistently ranked among the top universities in the nation.
- Beautiful campus. The JMU campus is located in the scenic Shenandoah Valley and features a variety of state-of-the-art facilities.
- Variety of student life activities. JMU offers a variety of student life activities, including over 400 student organizations and a variety of athletic teams.
- Vibrant arts and culture scene. JMU is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a variety of performances and exhibitions throughout the year.
- Supportive community. The JMU community is supportive and welcoming, and the university staff is dedicated to helping students succeed.
If you are looking for a university that will provide your child with a well-rounded education and a positive college experience, then James Madison University should be at the top of your list.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is the cost of Parents’ Weekend?
There is no cost to attend Parents’ Weekend. However, you will need to pay for your own travel and accommodations.
-
What is the dress code for Parents’ Weekend?
The dress code for Parents’ Weekend is casual. You should dress comfortably and be prepared to do a lot of walking.
-
What are the parking options for Parents’ Weekend?
There are a variety of parking options available on campus. You can purchase a parking pass in advance or pay for parking on a daily basis.
-
What are the dining options available on campus?
There are a variety of dining options available on campus, including restaurants, cafes, and food courts. You can also bring your own food and drinks to campus.
-
What are the attractions located near campus?
There are a variety of attractions located near campus, including the Shenandoah National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the James Madison Museum.
Conclusion
Parents’ Weekend is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your child’s accomplishments and experience the James Madison University community firsthand. The university staff is dedicated to making Parents’ Weekend a positive and memorable experience for all. We hope to see you on campus in October!
Year | Number of Parents Attended |
---|---|
2019 | 4,500 |
2020 | 0 |
2021 | 2,000 |
2022 | 3,000 |
Event | Time | Location |
---|---|---|
Welcome Reception | Friday, October 21, 2023, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Festival Ballroom, Student Center |
Academic Showcase | Saturday, October 22, 2023, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Various locations on campus |
Student Life Fair | Saturday, October 22, 2023, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Quad |
Football Game | Saturday, October 22, 2023, 6:00 PM | Bridgeforth Stadium |
Safety on Campus
James Madison University is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The university has a variety of safety measures in place, including:
- 24-hour police and security patrols
- Emergency call boxes located throughout campus
- A SafeWalk program that provides escorts to students walking on campus at night
- A variety of crime prevention programs
In addition to these measures, the university also encourages students to take personal safety precautions, such as:
- Being aware of their surroundings
- Walking in well-lit areas
- Avoiding walking alone at night
- Reporting any suspicious activity to the police
By following these tips, students can help to keep themselves safe on campus.
Health and Wellness
James Madison University is committed to providing a healthy and supportive environment for all students. The university offers a variety of health and wellness services, including:
- A student health center that provides medical care, counseling, and health education
- A recreation center that offers a variety of fitness and wellness programs
- A variety of healthy dining options on campus
- A variety of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and medication management
In addition to these services, the university also encourages students to take personal responsibility for their health and wellness. Students can do this by:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting regular exercise
- Getting enough sleep
- Managing stress
- Avoiding tobacco and alcohol use
By following these tips, students can help to improve their overall health and well-being.
Financial Aid
James Madison University offers a variety of financial aid options to help students pay for college