UNM’s first Family Weekend Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 1-2, is free and open to current students and their families. Early this year, UNM students chose the theme: “Go Lobos! Go Green!” A UNM committee of volunteer parents, staff and students organized events designed to connect families in enjoyable, informative ways.
On Saturday, the weekend kicks off with an "E-Waste and Roadrunner Foodbank Collection" in the E parking lot. "Green" Study Abroad and National Student Exchange opportunities and investing and spending wisely are among the morning's information sessions. Saturday's luncheon speaker is University College Interim Dean Finnie Coleman who will speak about the value of mentors. Youth ages 5-12 will engage in physical activities at Johnson Center and a Dia de los Muertos celebration at Maxwell Museum.
Tours of the new engineering complex will be offered, the Parent Association will hold its first general membership meeting, and residence hall and international students will engage families in a traditional game of Loteria, a Mexican fair tradition, at student housing.
In the early evening, author John Nichols presents a talk "To Sustain or Not to Sustain: That is the Question," at Zimmerman Library followed by a booksigning and reception. Nichols, a longtime resident of Northern New Mexico, is the author of a number of books, including the “Milagro Beanfield War.” The film adaptation of the book will be screened at the SUB at noon and 2 p.m.
Families are also invited to the UNM President's annual tailgate prior to the UNM v. Utah game at University Stadium. Kick-off is at 7:30 p.m. Football tickets are available to parents and family members at a special rate of $10.
On Sunday, Bruce Milne, Sustainability Studies Director, will speak about the green collar economy at a family breakfast prior to the Lobo Grower's Market on the SUB Cornell Mall.
Sponsors for UNM's Family Weekend include: Parent Relations, Parent Association, ENLACE, Sustainability Studies, President’s Office, Extended University, University Secretary, University Libraries, Dean of Students, Women’s Resource Center and the College Enrichment Program.
Events are free, but registration is required. Visit Family Weekend or call 277-5915.