Parents and Families

Parent and Family Engagement Program

You’re a proud parent / family member. And we’re a proud community of Beavers who are just as invested as you in your student’s growth and success at OSU! 

The Parent and Family Engagement Program is designed to bridge the transition from family to college life by keeping parents and families informed and engaged alongside students throughout their OSU journey. We encourage you to be a vital partner in this process! That’s why we will be sharing meaningful communications, tips and ongoing opportunities to help you support and empower your student as they find their footing on campus and thrive as part of the Beaver community. 

Stay connected with your student and OSU! Access the Oregon State Family Portal for the latest communications with updates about university life and happenings, student health and safety, helpful resources and more.   

Get involved by volunteering (virtually or in person!) alongside other OSU parents for committees and events that bring Beavers and their families together – building strong connections that support students and the university. One great option is the Parent and Family Council. Or explore other opportunities to volunteer, network and advocate for OSU.

Contribute to your student’s success by making a gift ...  and encourage other OSU families to do the same! 

Beaver family members, including father and daughter, taking a photo with Benny at OSU

Stay informed

The Oregon State Family Portal is designed to provide the information you need, when you need it. This resource will help you stay engaged and focused on what matters most: your student’s success at OSU!

Bonus: In the portal, you can personalize your experience to you. Don’t wait to sign up – we’re sure you’ll love it!

 

Parent and Family Council

Consider joining the Parent and Family Council, which meets virtually each quarter. The council also assists with OSUAA’s parent and family socials, which take place at Parent and Family Weekends sponsored by the Office of New Student Onboarding.

Parent and Family Fund

Support the OSU Parent and Family Fund – or another area that holds special significance to your family.

Connect with us

Have questions? We'd love to tell you more about how parents and families can engage at OSU.  

Contact:

 

Julie Schwartz
Senior Director, Parent and Family Engagement

Advice from parents and families

Read advice, feelings and stories from parents and families.

Additional resources

>> Beaver book recommendations for new OSU parents/families

Out to Sea: A Parents’ Survival Guide to the Freshman Voyage by Kelly Radi

Leaving the nest is a major transition for all involved. That’s why we highly recommend this easy-to-read, informative guidebook that acknowledges that the college transition can be stressful and emotional for both students and their parents. With warmth, humor and real-world advice, the author covers such things as staying connected, mentorship parenting, money matters, roommate relations, health and wellness and much more.

How to College: What to Know Before You Go (And When You’re There) by Andrea Malkin Brenner and Lara Hope Schwartz

We understand that the transition from high school (and home!) to college is a major one for parents/caregivers and students alike. That’s why we recommend this informative and comprehensive book that helps answer common questions and provides valuable resources for first-year students and their families. It is a practical and thorough primer that can help ensure a smooth transition and set your student’s foundation for success at OSU. 

>> For students - Volunteer opportunities

OSU students have the power to shape their community, their campus and their world.  Volunteering is a proven way to get connected and meet like-minded classmates who want to make a difference. Future employers also value volunteerism. See the wide variety of online and in-person opportunities here.