Tuesday, Sep 24, 2019
Council allows families to play an active role in their student's education
by Diane Cornell
Rider University is pleased to announce the development of a parent and family council. The council is designed to strengthen ties between students, families and the University, deepening their connection to Rider by providing opportunities to become engaged in campus activities and create a culture of philanthropy.
The Rider University Parent and Family Council is open to parents and guardians who are interested in supporting the University both philanthropically and its mission of student success through participation in activities that enrich the Rider experience.
Throughout the year, council members will play a dynamic role in University life by:
- hosting and attending Rider events; providing guidance on parent engagement;
- participating in fundraising activities;
- serving as a resource to expand student mentoring and career opportunities;
- and volunteering at Orientation and Student Move-in Day and other campus events.
Marc ’74 and Marge Suntup have both joined the council. Their daughter, Sara, is a sophomore majoring in elementary education. Marc is a chief development officer for Gurwin Healthcare Foundation on Long Island, and Marge is a preschool teacher.
“As a Rider alumnus and parent, it was very special when our daughter Sara decided Rider was the right school for her,” says Marc. “Now that she has completed her freshman year, it means even more to see her growth as a student and as a person.
“Rider was a very special place for me right from the beginning,” says Marc of his Rider experience. “So the ability to give back and provide a full campus and college experience for my daughter and other students is a reason I want to do this.
As members of the Council, participants will become more knowledgeable about University resources and programs that support student success and build connections with administrators and other families while supporting initiatives that benefit current students.
“As parents, we all bring some type of expertise that can benefit the University. This council will tap into that knowledge and I think be very helpful to guide Rider’s growth," Marc says. "I hope the council attracts engaged parents who will welcome the opportunity to contribute and make the University better.”
To learn more about participating in Council activities or to become a member contact Associate Director of Philanthropy and Parent Engagement Gabriella Hill at [email protected] or 609-896-5108 or go to www.rider.edu/support-rider/get-involved/parent-family-council to fill out a parent and family interest form.
To stay up-to-date on campus announcements and events, follow the Parent and Family Council on Facebook.