Family & Supporter Orientation Schedule

Wednesday, August 26 & Thursday, August 27

Families and supporters: join us either Wednesday or Thursday after helping your student move into their new home. The program is the same on both days.

All sessions are in the Dudley H. Davis Center.

3:00 PM

Family and Supporter Welcome

Wednesday: Olin Atrium (1st Floor) | Thursday: Grand Maple Ballroom (4th Floor)

Join us for a special greeting from Dr. Marlene Tromp (she/her), President of the University of Vermont.

3:15–3:45 PM

Session Block I

Select one session from the options below.

3:30–4:30 PM

Session Block 2

Select one session from the options below.

The following sessions will be available during each block:

Families in Transition: When to Step in and When to Step Back

Wednesday: Sugar Maple Ballroom (4th Floor) | Thursday: Grand Maple Ballroom (4th Floor)

Presented by Heather Pena (she/her), Assistant Dean of Students

Sending your student off to college is a big life change – for them and for you. As they begin to find their footing, make decisions, and face new challenges, it’s natural to wonder how involved you should be.

This session is for families of first-year students who want to stay supportive while giving their student room to grow.  We’ll talk through common situation families often encounter and explore when it’s helpful to step in – and when it’s better to step back.  You’ll leave with practical tips, reassurance, and a better sense of how to stay connected while encouraging your student’s independence and success.

Student Involvement and Belonging: Insider Advice Families Can Offer Their Students

Mt. Mansfield Dining Room (2nd Floor)

Presented by Lina Balcom (she/her), Director of Student Life

Join us to discover how families can play a pivotal role in their students’ college experience. This session will provide practical tips and conversation starters you can use to encourage your student to get involved, build connections, and feel at home on the UVM campus. Learn about the opportunities available – clubs, organizations, events, and leadership roles – and why engagement matters for student success. This session will offer strategies for guiding your student to explore their interests, step beyond their comfort zone, and find their Catamount community.

Safety First: Helping Your Student Navigate Campus and Community with Confidence

Chittenden Bank Room (4th Floor)

Presented by Michael Shirling (he/him), Chief Safety and Compliance Officer and Kevin Hytten (he/him), Safety Technology & Training Director

Join staff from the Division of Safety & Compliance for an overview of how UVM prioritizes campus safety and empowers students with the tools, training, and resources to navigate Burlington and beyond. Learn about the university’s key safety initiatives, including de-escalation strategies, active threat response, and the CATSafe app.  We’ll also share how students are encouraged to report concerns, stay aware of their surroundings, and contribute to a safe and supportive community. This session will help you better understand the systems in place to support your student’s well-being and success during their time at UVM.

Academic Life at UVM: What Families Need to Know

Livak Ballroom (4th Floor)

Presented by Tammy Moss (she/her), Student Services Collaboration Chair, Assistant Dean of Student Services for the College of Nursing and Health Sciences

This session will cover topics around academic advising, the Catamount Core curriculum, understanding degree progression and credits, FERPA policies, and general tips for academic success.

Navigating Financial Matters: Financial Aid, Billing, & Student Employment

Williams Family Room (4th Floor)

Wednesday: Presented by Janet Hinnes, Associate Director of Student Financial Services

Thursday: Presented by Matthew DeSorgher, Sr. Director of Student Financial Services

This session will address common questions families have about financial aid, billing, and student employment at UVM. We’ll review how financial aid is applied, key requirements for maintaining eligibility, and how students can access on‑campus employment opportunities. You’ll also learn about billing timelines, payment options, and how you can support your student as they manage financial matters.

4:30–5:30 PM

Closing Reception

Wednesday: Olin Atrium (1st Floor) | Thursday: Livak Fireplace Lounge (4th Floor)

Before you leave campus, join us for the Closing Reception. Enjoy light appetizers and beverages, connect with campus partners to discover helpful resources. You can also write a postcard to your student that we'll deliver later in the semester.

The following campus partners will be at the reception:

  • Center for Academic Success
  • Department of Student Life
  • Division of Safety and Compliance
  • Student Financial Services
  • Office of Accessibility Services: Student Accessibility Services
  • Center for Health and Wellbeing
  • University Housing and Dining Services
  • Ask UVM
  • Tr.ACE (CAS Transfer Program) – Thursday only

Junior Catamount Den

Jost Foundation Room (4th Floor) | Available 2:45–5:00 PM

A space for tweens, teens, and/or siblings to play, relax, and hang out while Moms, Dads, and Supporters attend sessions.