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Membership in free WMU Family Connection soars

Aug. 30, 2007

KALAMAZOO--As the start of a new school year draws closer, membership in the Western Michigan University Family Connection is soaring. In the last month, the number of parents and family members in the group has tripled to nearly 1,000.

The WMU Family Connection was established earlier this year to keep families involved in their students' educational development. Membership is open to all parents, guardians and family members of undergraduate and graduate students, and there is never a cost to belong. Those who are a part of the WMU Family Connection are among the first to receive information of significance to the parents and families of those who study at WMU. Because updates are sent by e-mail, family members both across town and around the globe are always well-informed and current on campus news and happenings.

Join WMU Family Connection now

Shari Glaser, director of WMU's parent and family programs, says the feedback she's received from parents and family members who have joined the group has been both heartening and inspiring.

"Families appreciate and value being connected to the University," she says. "We recognize the importance of family in decision making and in student support. Our goal is to walk hand in hand with parents and families, working together to support the students as they mature into independent and responsible adults."

The WMU Family Connection is part of the University's Office of Parent and Family Programs, which was created last October with the intention of forging connections and relationships with families.

"Parents and families appreciate having a name, e-mail address, phone number and Web site dedicated to helping them navigate through the University," Glaser says. "Instead of being overwhelmed with the University directory, they have a touch point to assist them in finding the person who can assist them with specific problems and everyday questions."

For more information, visit www.wmich.edu/parents, or contact Shari Glaser at shari.glaser@wmich.edu or (269) 387-4820.

Media contact: Tonya Hernandez, (269) 387-8400, tonya.hernandez@wmich.edu

WMU News
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