Partnering Together to Support Student Success
Welcome to the Penn State family. As your student begins their college journey, you remain one of their most important sources of guidance and encouragement. At Penn State, we believe students succeed best when their families are informed, supported, and engaged. The Office of Parent and Family Engagement is here to connect you with resources, events, and timely information—so you can help your student thrive while growing confidently on their own.
We’re here to support you as you support your student by:
- Serving as a central point of connection for University resources
- Enhancing opportunities for meaningful family involvement
- Providing insight into the student experience at Penn State
- Sharing timely updates and helpful information throughout the year
Create a Penn State Family Experience
Stay connected to your student’s Penn State experience through the Parent and Family Hub, your central resource for updates, guidance, and opportunities to stay engaged. From helpful tools to timely information, the Office of Parent and Family Engagement makes it easy to support your student and feel part of the Penn State community.
Get Connected
Engage with Us Throughout the Year
Parents and families are an essential part of the Penn State community. Through events, volunteer opportunities, and ongoing engagement, families help create a strong network of wraparound support that empowers students to thrive.
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To help make the transition to college smoother—for both students and families—we host welcome opportunities at the start of each semester. These events offer a chance to ask questions, meet other parents and staff, and pick up some helpful resources (and maybe a tissue or two for the trip home).
Upcoming Dates
- Spring Arrival: Sunday, January 11
- Join us during your student's New Student Orientation program
- End your day with cookies and hot chocolate in the HUB-Robeson Center
- Summer Arrival: Dates and times provided in May
- Fall Arrival: Dates and times provided in July
- Spring Arrival: Sunday, January 11
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Experience Penn State alongside your student during Family Weekend—a campus-wide celebration filled with events, tours, and moments that bring our community together. Join us to explore campus, make memories, and feel what it’s like to be part of the Penn State family.
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This virtual series features Penn State staff and campus experts offering practical guidance on topics like wellness, academics, involvement, and student life. Each session includes time for questions and open discussion, so you can feel confident supporting your student.
The webinar series is designed to support you as you support your student. These optional sessions are designed to provide more information on the topics below. A recording of each webinar will be shared within one week of the original date.
- All sessions will be hosted via Zoom from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. ET.
2025-2026 Academic Year Series
- Keeping our Students Healthy
- Academic Support & Resources
- Empty Nest vs. Open Door (POSTPONED)
- Understanding Fraternity & Sorority Recruitment
- Career Services at Penn State
- Money Management & Financial Literacy
- Advocate for Penn State
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with information about joining the meeting. Sessions will be recorded and shared here at a later date. Once available, click on "recording" after the session name to view.
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Your involvement matters. From attending events to joining the Parents Council or participating in virtual programs, there are many ways to stay connected, informed, and engaged in your student’s journey—while supporting their growth and independence.
The Penn State Parents Fund
As a parent, you’re now part of a community that shows up for one another—through generosity, mentorship, and meaningful connection. Gifts to the Penn State Parents Fund directly support students through wellness programming, career readiness, emergency resources, and more. Every gift makes a difference in helping students succeed.
Penn State is a large university, but there are so many resources and opportunities available to help students and families get involved.