Family Day this weekend looks to capitalize on shift in seasons

Hoping to take advantage of better weather, Purdue University Fort Wayne has moved its Family Day for students to the fall semester. The on-campus event will take place Saturday. Last year’s gathering was held Feb. 24 inside Lutheran Health Fieldhouse, but the new date was chosen to offer more outside activities.

“This provides an opportunity and a space for all families to get back together, see where their students are, and check in on them,” said Giang Petroviak, executive director of student success initiatives. “It‘s just about having that time for our students to see their parents and siblings again.”

The festivities start at 9 a.m. with the Campus United 5K to benefit the FRIENDS of the University Pantry. That’s followed by the Family Day celebration in the green space located east of Helmke Library and north of parking garage p1. Highlights of the event will include food trucks, inflatable games, tie-dye shirts, and various vendors. The first 100 families to register will receive $20 in food vouchers.

“It’s just a time for people to come and connect,” Petroviak said. “They can take time to talk, or maybe walk around so their students can show off campus.”

The day concludes with a 3 p.m. women’s soccer match against Horizon League foe Detroit Mercy at the Hefner Soccer Complex. Admission is free.