A-State Family Weekend Set for Sept. 25-27
JONESBORO – Arkansas State University will welcome relatives and loved ones for Family Weekend, Friday, Sept. 25, through Sunday, Sept. 27, with events on campus and in the Jonesboro community to celebrate.
Haley Cummings, associate director of new student and family programs says the weekend allows families to get a peek into the community their students are building on campus.
“Families are such an important part of a student’s support system, especially as students transition into college, and we want them to know that they are an important part of the Red Wolf community too. It allows our students to share the places, people, traditions, and experiences that have become important to them, and hopefully helps their families feel more connected to A-State in the process,” said Cummings.
The family weekend events are below.
Friday, Sept. 25:
-11 a.m. - 10 p.m.: Oktoberfest, Native Brew Works
-12 p.m. - 5 p.m.: More than Human Exhibit, Bradbury Art Museum
5 p.m. - 10 p.m.: Northeast Arkansas District Fair, NEA Fairgrounds
5 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.: BBQ Fest, Downtown Jonesboro
6 p.m.: A-State Volleyball vs. ULM, First National Bank Arena (only clear bags will be allowed)
Saturday, Sept. 26:
7 a.m.: Gearhead Outfitters Run Club Game Day 5K, meet at the Tiago statue on Aggie Rd. The 5K is free to participate in
8 a.m. - 1 p.m.: Farmers' Market, Judd Hill Farmers Market
10 a.m. - 10 p.m.: Oktoberfest, Native Brew Works
12 p.m. - 5 p.m.: More than Human Exhibit, Bradbury Art Museum
12 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.: BBQ Fest, Downtown Jonesboro
3 p.m.: A-State Rugby vs. Loyola, Curt Huckaby Field, free admission
3 p.m. Food Trucks Open, Tailgate City, outside Centennial Bank Stadium
3 p.m. Hijinx Kids' Zone Open, Tailgate City, outside Centennial Bank Stadium
3:45 p.m.: Red Wolf Walk, Tailgate City
5 p.m.: Family Weekend and Pack Preview Day Tailgate, Tailgate City Tent 25
5 p.m. - 10 p.m.: Northeast Arkansas District Fair, NEA Fairgrounds
6 p.m.: A-State Football vs. Kennesaw State, Centennial Bank Stadium (only clear bags will be allowed)
Sunday, Sept. 27:
10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.: Family Brunch, Acansa Dining Hall
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.: Family Photos, Reng Student Union
This year, Family Weekend coincides with events like the Jonesboro BBQ Fest and the NEA District Fair. Cummings said it helps showcase the town to families.
“One thing that makes this year especially exciting is how much is happening both at A-State and throughout Jonesboro during the weekend. It's a great opportunity for families to experience not only their student’s campus, but the wider community they now call home,” she said.
With many events on the schedule, Cummings wants attendees to know their weekend can look however they would like.
“We have a full schedule of activities available throughout the weekend, but families certainly don’t have to do everything. Whether they come for a volleyball game, spend Saturday experiencing game day at A-State, join us for brunch and family photos on Sunday, explore Jonesboro with their student, or do a little bit of everything, the most important thing is having that opportunity to spend time together,” she added.
Over the past few years, Family Weekend has taken a backseat, but with Cummings now at the wheel, she plans to reignite the annual tradition.
“I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to personally meet some of our families, hear about their experiences, and learn more about how we can continue supporting and engaging them in the future," said Cummings.
