GUARDIANS IN OUR GALAXY

TCU Family Week Puts Out an Extra Large Welcome Mat

By Texas Christian University

September 28^th, 2021

It’s what being a Horned Frog is all about

Once known as Family Weekend, TCU Family Week expanded to a full week this year so that families unable to travel to campus could engage in virtual activities during the weeknights. The inclusive strategy worked: 12,266 family members visited campus, and 1,417 more joined the celebration online.

A well-loved school tradition coordinated by TCU Student Activities and funded by TCU Student Government, the program is designed to give Horned Frog family members a sense of the TCU experience and deepen their connection to the university.

Because parental involvement can be important to undergraduate success, families are invited to witness firsthand the intellectual and personal growth opportunities available to their students while connecting with faculty, staff and other families.

It’s also a really great time, filled with food, fun, sports and activities.

The TCU Parents Association, created by TCU Parent & Family Programs and led by Horned Frog families, holds events during Family Week and routinely connects parents and guardians with the university and to each other through news, events, webinars and social media.

Meet the folks

On Friday afternoon, a family welcome center was set up in the BLUU auditorium with free family photos, swag and family buttons and the campus store offered plenty of shopping.

A nostalgic yearbook pop-up experience was new for this year, along with two special campus audio tours: one guiding visitors through campus landmarks and traditions, and one showcasing some of the 3,200 trees that have earned TCU a Tree Campus USA recognition for the past five years. (And who doesn’t love seeking shade here in Texas?)

Rising juniors ordered their TCU class rings, and next year’s seniors ceremoniously picked up theirs, signing the official “ring book” and enjoying the casual reception at the Dee J. Kelly Alumni Center. There was also sophomore pinning ceremony held on campus.

With televisions, games, party lights and outdoor furnishings, the TCU Community Commons always feels like both a front yard and outdoor family room. Friday afternoon found Horned Frog families enjoying live music and food while hanging out between tours, receptions and open houses hosted among the schools and colleges and student organizations.

Spirit, let's hear it

Saturday morning brought hoards of fans to Amon G. Carter Stadium for the Battle for the Iron Skillet: The 100th football match up with longtime rival SMU. The TCU Parents Association hosted a tailgate breakfast on the lawn of the Dee J. Kelly Alumni Center that was so popular, tickets sold out in August. But everyone could still enjoy selfies with SuperFrog and the entrance of the band and spirit squads through Frog Alley.

Something for everyone

Football wasn't the only sport on the Family Week menu: Fans could also catch TCU women's soccer games. And the week's virtual offerings were great ways to create something new, including a Zoom cooking class with Jyll Everman of the Food Network, coloring pages for kids and adults and a downloadable DIY Tailgate Kit with printable decor and recipes.

Family Week Art School featured virtual TCU-themed interactive drawing lesson with comic book professionals Will Sliney and Marvel colorist Rachelle Rosenberg.