May, 2009

Dear Parents:

I add my welcome and congratulations to you and your son or daughter as you continue your St. Olaf experience. This section of the binder contains information that we believe will be helpful to you as you move your student to campus and as your family adjusts to a new way of being with each other.

While this summer is an exciting time with high school graduation and preparation for arriving on the Hill, we know it’s a time of transition that will not always be easy. Please consider the enclosed Families Going to College – for you and for your student. We’re including dates that you should know and information about area accommodations – because you’re welcome to visit! You will also find schedules for Opening Day, move-in procedures, and a subscription form for the weekly student newspaper, the Manitou Messenger. I encourage you to consider allowing the campus communications office to send information to your local newspaper(s) – just the good things, of course.

Above all, please remember that your role in your child’s life remains a very important one, even though you will not be living under the same roof (as much) from September through May. These next few years will be filled with challenges for your child. Some will be more difficult than others, but all will encourage growth. Whether your child lets you know it or not, we find that our students enjoy knowing that their families are thinking of them. With this in mind, Alpha Phi Omega (APO), a service organization here on campus, has included information on ordering a care packet of items that your son or daughter may find useful. The Residence Life InterHall Council (IHC) also does a separate final exam care packages, which you will receive a separate letter and chance to order during the school year.

Please know that you are welcome to be in touch with the college’s staff whenever you have concerns or questions. If you do not know whom to call, please feel free to start with the Alumni and Parent Relations Office. If we are not able to answer your questions, we’ll connect you to the appropriate staff.

I hope you enjoy your St. Olaf experience.

Um! Yah! Yah!

Nathan Soland ’04
Director, Alumni and Parent Relations