Current Winthrop University students got the rare opportunity in-between studies to spend time with their family members on-campus as part of the school’s annual Family Day.
Winthrop students and families who registered for the day’s events were given a Winthrop Family Day t-shirt as well as an invitation to a catered lunch with seating in front of the Byrnes Auditorium, where attendees were treated to a musical showcase of over 200 Winthrop collegiate band players and singers.
While dining on food in front of the renovating auditorium, President Edward Serna spoke about Winthrop’s standing in U.S and World academic ranking.
“We had our highest ranking ever (this year),” Serna said. “#5 among regional public universities in the south. Money Magazine also ranked us as a top value institution, so there’s your bang for your buck, folks.”
Winthrop student mother, Amy Pronovost, said that she had a great time with her children walking around the campus and learning more about the college.
“We had an amazing time spending the day with our senior son and sophomore daughter, who transferred from another University this year,” Pronovost said. “The faculty, food, fun and informative events throughout the day made for an awesome and memorable day.”
After eating, students and families were welcomed to peruse the campus and participate in fun events like rock climbing and taking home simple-to-care-for plants like succulents, all geared around bringing Eagles back to their original nest mothers, fathers and siblings.
“A big thank you for all who had a part in making this an enjoyable day visiting my children at Winthrop University,” Pronovost said.
Winthrop Family Day is a tradition that first began in 1936 after being created by Winthrop University President Shelton J. Phelps, which was later revived in 2007 to bring students and family members together for a day of fun activities at Winthrop in the middle of the academic semester.
