Family Weekend 2025: Community in action

“This year marked an exciting evolution for Family Weekend as we coordinated for the first time with the Ideas Festival,” says Darleny Cepin, senior associate dean of Campus Life. “Both programs were thoughtfully and intentionally designed to reflect the spirit of Oxford, spark dialogue, and create meaningful moments of connection across generations of students, families, alumni, faculty, and community members. We were truly excited to host a weekend that celebrated our shared traditions and offered a glimpse into the future we are building together.” 

Families were treated to student dance and musical performances and a picnic on Oxford’s historic Quad. Many participated in the traditional Fun Run, toured historic Covington, or visited the Organic Farm, which highlighted the college’s commitment to student engagement and sustainability. Above all, the weekend showed Oxford’s spirit of belonging, with many alumni returning as parents to continue the proud legacy of multi-generational families.

“We also introduced new experiences to deepen our sense of connection,” says Cepin. “On Thursday evening, we hosted a kickoff reception designed for students whose families were not visiting for the weekend as a reminder that Oxford is a place where every student is supported by a caring and invested community. On Friday, we launched an outdoor picnic and movie experience, and we were thrilled by the warm response and enthusiasm it received from students, families, and guests alike.”

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At the second annual Ideas Festival Emory, families got a taste of how students are encouraged to explore, discover, and create. The Festival featured scholars, community leaders, artists, storytellers, and musicians, all gathered around the theme of “resilience” to discuss some of the most pressing issues of our time. Featured speakers included Grammy Award-winning musician and writer Rosanne Cash, who recorded an episode on the Sing for Science podcast; panel sessions on the power of art, music, and journalism to nourish minds and souls; a performance by the Covington Ballet; and other thoughtful discussions grounded in history, science, and culture.

The Festival is the flagship event of Emory’s Center for Public Scholarship and Engagement, founded and directed by Oxford Charles Howard Candler Professor of Psychology Kenneth Carter 87Ox 89C, who believes that “knowledge belongs to all of us” and that conversation brings people together.

Tammy added, "I enjoyed partnering with Campus Life and their team to help make this weekend meaningful for families and our students."

“Throughout the weekend, guests enjoyed three inspiring talks that really captured the heart of Oxford’s academic spirit. From thrilling anthropology adventures to the transformative power of student research, and a thoughtful look at pathways and purpose, the weekend offered a carefully curated lineup of events and celebrated connection, curiosity, and the vibrant Oxford community," shared Ellen Campbell, senior administrative assistant and office manager for the Office of Campus Life.