|
Outreach and Service
At this time of year, many high school seniors are making commitments to colleges for the upcoming fall semester, and many high school juniors are beginning their search for a university in earnest. Each of us as parents of George Fox University students has an opportunity - perhaps even an obligation - to share what makes George Fox University unique.
My wife, Karen, and I have counted our blessings for the privilege of sending our son and daughter to George Fox. I could go on about the incredible opportunities the university offers - outstanding academics; Christ-centered teaching and activities; short-term mission and serve trips; vibrant campus life; on-campus Bible studies; sports; a safe and nurturing, yet challenging, environment. But my guess is you would agree wholeheartedly that this is the best place our sons and daughters could be attending college.
Have you been sharing the "good news" of George Fox with your family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers? If not, now is the time. As I have talked about the Fox experience with people I know, what seems to convince them to attend is their feelings and thoughts after visiting the campus in Newberg. Nothing can beat the experience of visiting campus, meeting with faculty and staff, and really feeling the presence of God on campus. As parents of GFU students, we can do our small part to assist with outreach and recruitment by sharing our personal GFU experiences with others.
Parents can not only encourage prospective students to attend GFU, they also help current students through service on the Parents Council. The Parents Council is made up of approximately 25 to 30 parents of current students that meets several times throughout the academic year to plan and sponsor events which directly benefit students.
The Parents Council assists students with move-in day; plays a major role in planning and administering the Family Weekend in November; sponsors the Parent's Day of Prayer each March; supports the emergency financial needs of students through various fund-raising activities; and participates in Genesis panels. Serving on the Parents Council is a unique opportunity of service for a parent in "being blessed while being a blessing."
Would you consider serving on the Parents Council? If so, contact Sheri Philips, executive director of university relations, at 503-554-2114. It has been a wonderful experience and opportunity for me to serve on the Parents Council the past four years. I look forward to seeing continued support and encouragement to our students from the Parents Council in the years ahead. Blessings to you and your family.
Dan Strandy,
Parents Council Chairman
|
