Often times, as a family drops their child off at university, they are not completely aware of what their children will experience and be exposed to while on campus. However, Washburn University has developed a day to invite families of students to come and experience the learning and social environment that their children live in while on campus.

Washburn held its annual Family Day Sept. 20, which was packed full of games, activities and events for all ages and gave parents and other family members the opportunity to get involved in their loved ones campus life.

The day kicked off with story reading and face painting in Mabee Library, followed by inflatables and carnival themed games on the lawn of the Union, a pre game tailgate and finally a home football game match up between the Washburn University Ichabods and the Pittsburg State Gorillas.

Families came from near and far to enjoy all of the activities offered throughout the day, and spend quality time with the students.

One student in particular who attended with her family was Washburn Law student Meredith Fry. Both of Fry’s parents are Washburn University Alumni, while Fry and her sister are currently enrolled on campus. Not only was Fry and her family there to enjoy the days activities, they were also there to receive the honorable Family of the Year Award.

“The game is my favorite part of Family Day,” said Fry.

Fry also went on to explain that Family Day is a very beneficial to attend because it engages the family in the their child or loved ones place of study.

Just as any event, Family Day would not be possible without the help of volunteers. Many of the Universities clubs and organizations came out to help with running the games, mingling with the guests, and making sure the event ran smoothly. Students lent their time and talents all throughout the day, and contributed to providing a fun and positive atmosphere for all of the families and guests on campus. The Washburn University Golf Team was one of many groups that came out to volunteer.

“Our coach told us to be here so we came, and we’re having a lot of fun,” said undeclared freshman Carter Berry.

Berry and his teammate sophomore accounting and finance major Alex Green spent the day running one of the many bouncy houses, and supervising the children as the played.

“I love seeing all of the kids and smiles on Family Day,” said Green. “It’s just a really good environment overall.”

Whether young or old, Family Day at Washburn offered something for every age group to enjoy. It was a day dedicated to spending time with family, and allowing students to introduce their family to their new friends, classes and life on campus.

It serves to unite two important aspects of a students life, their family and their school, in order to ease transitions and make the university experience more enjoyable for all who are involved. Overall, Family Day 2014 had a respectable turn out.

From the activities, to the football game and simply just being on campus, families were truly able to see what being an Ichabod is all about. All who attended were able to walk away with smiles and great memories to share in the future.