Juggling the responsibilities of parenthood while pursuing a graduate degree can be challenging, to say the least. But as part of their work to support student-parents on their journeys, TC’s Office of Graduate Student Life and Development (GSLD) hosted its fourth annual Family Day celebration on Oct. 25. The event garnered more than 95 participants for a day dedicated to connection, community and fun.

“It is so wonderful to support our TC students who are parents and caregivers,” shared Thomas Rock, Vice President for Community and Student Affairs. “It is equally important for their children or family members to also see what they are experiencing in their schooling at Teachers College.  It is great to show the children and family members that learning never stops, no matter the age or experience.”

After beginning the day with brunch in the Smith Learning Theater, families headed over to Grace Dodge Hall to participate in numerous activities, including a “reading circle,” board games, knitting and origami, all facilitated by TC student organizations and leaders.

“Family Day is one of my favorite events of the year. I love seeing the excitement on everyone's faces and how thrilled the kids are to see where their parents go to school,” shared Grace Davis, Assistant Director of Graduate Life and Student Development, who played a key role in organizing the event this year. “Student-parents wear so many different hats, it is important that they feel supported and have opportunities to connect with the university but also with other student-parents.”

Families were invited to participate in a “groove session” filled with music, laughter and movement hosted by TC’s Hub of Dancers.

A time for connection: While little ones painted, student-parents had the opportunity to chat and learn more about one another.

Say cheese! Children (and parents) got to pose for a celebratory photo with Columbia’s very own Roar-EE the Lion.

“It is a delight to welcome TC student-parents to Family Day,” added Alana Crosby, Senior Associate Director, Graduate Student Life and Development. “Student-parents are an important part of the TC community, as are their loved ones. Getting to them [families] connect with one another, take photos with Roar-EE and their children, and do fun activities together as a community is always a highlight of the year.”

Through the Student-Parent Group, a recognized TC student organization, student-parents can build community with one another by attending one of the programs they host. Additionally, individuals can receive tailored support throughout their academic endeavors from successfully completing their studies to caring for their families and maintaining their own physical and mental health, by reaching out to TC's Office of Student Support & Advocacy.

The day’s festivities concluded with a wrap-up raffle in Everett Lounge hosted by Crosby and Davis, with opportunities for community and connection.

“It's always a joy to show family members around Teachers College and have them see where their loved one goes to school,” Rock concludes. “Olivia, the daughter of a TC doctoral student, has attended Family Day multiple times. We’ve had the privilege of watching her grow, and now she expresses a desire to become a teacher herself. After attending Family Day for consecutive years, I have no doubt that we’ll see her application in the near future!”

Parents, want to be up-to-date on future activities and happenings? Join the Student-Parent Group and email StudentParentGroup@tc.columbia.edu. Plus, find more resources through the Cowin Student Success Hub.