Celebrate your Family of Colonels!
Family Day is an annual fall tradition held on the Wilkes campus, providing an opportunity for families to connect with their students while getting a first hand look into a day in the life at Wilkes!
Friends & Family are encouraged to register by Friday, Sept. 13 in order to ensure they receive pertinent information about check-in and important updates about the weekend's events.
The weekend will afford you many opportunities to spend time together as a family, as well as to meet faculty, staff, administrators, friends and other Wilkes families.
9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Henry Student Center, 1st Floor
Visit the Colonel Corner for the latest in Wilkes apparel and accessories.
9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Henry Student Center, 1st Floor
Families will have the opportunity to mingle, grab light refreshments and a schedule of the day’s events during registration. Student organizations will be present selling Wilkes gear as well.
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Ralston Athletic Complex (transportation available from the Henry Student Center)
Families and friends are invited to enjoy a full tailgate menu and activities, including photobooth photos and a children’s corner with arts & crafts, and complimentary Wilkes spirit gear to help cheer on the Colonels!
12 p.m.
Schmidt Stadium
Watch the Wilkes Colonels take on the St. John Fisher Cardinals football team at Schmidt Stadium.
12 - 5 p.m.
Karambelas Media and Communication Center, Sordoni Art Gallery
Visit the current exhibition,
Memories and Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Artwhich showcases sixty-seven selected works from a collection built over thirty-five years by a working-class couple. Kerry, a retired mailman, and Betty, a former television news producer, prioritized acquiring art over material comforts, viewing it as a source of cultural preservation and community inspiration. They sought to capture a broad spectrum of black imagery, focusing on diverse approaches rather than exclusively known artists. The Davis Collection has grown through various means, resulting in an eclectic mix of mediums, subjects, and styles by African Diaspora artists.
2-4 p.m.
McHale Athletic Center rock wall
Join Wilkes Adventure Education for a rock wall climbing adventure. This is the perfect opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself while having fun with your family and friends. Whether you;re a seasoned climber or a beginner, this event is designed to help you test your skills, build confidence and create memories. Don’t miss the chance to conquer new heights!
3-4 p.m.
Henry Student Center, second floor, Jean and Paul Adams Commons (JPAC)
A special twist on a Wilkes tradition! Join the e-Mentors for a chance to win some fantastic prizes. Whether you’re a bingo pro or a first-timer, this event promises a good time to be had by all. Don’t miss out on the fun!
4 p.m.
Schmidt Stadium
Watch the Wilkes Colonels take on the Susquehanna River Hawks field hockey team.
Things to Do While Visiting Your Wilkes Student
Looking for things to do when you come to campus? Take a look at some of the cool activities right around the corner from Wilkes! Northeast Pennsylvania is home to waterfall hikes external website, an Indoor Trampoline Park external website, and even axe throwing at The Hatchet Factory external website. Celebrate Fall with a visit to one of our many pumpkin patches external website.
For any questions about Family Day, please email or call us at:
You can also visit the Wilkes University Parents page for additional important upcoming dates.