Family Central

Student support from acceptance through graduation and beyond

College marks a life-changing chapter in your student's life. At Central Michigan University, we take their time here seriously, supporting their learning from day one. From their first class to their walk across the graduation stage, our goal is to make sure they feel supported through every single step of their educational journey.

Student success doesn't just happen on campus. Family members – including parents, grandparents, siblings, significant others, and other relatives – serve as an important supporting cast in students' success at college. Therefore, we have a vested interest in providing knowledge and resources to assist you during your student's time here.

The goal of this website is simple – to inform, educate, and support your student's success. Here you can discover a wealth of knowledge, including resources, frequently asked questions, contact information, important dates and other items specific to family members.

Our support also extends to you, too. If at any point you need assistance for your student, feel free to contact us, and we'll be happy to help in any way possible.

Family & Friends Weekend 2025

Families, friends and supporters are invited to our annual Family & Friends Weekend! We are excited to welcome you back to campus to be reunited with your Chippewa for a weekend of traditions and fun-filled activities. You can choose from a variety of family-friendly options below or join us for them all!

RSVP to stay in the loop!

We ask that you RSVP for the weekend by September 1st to help us to plan appropriately and to communicate with you with updates about our various events. This does not reserve space at any of our individual activities that may have limited seating. If you don’t RSVP and decide to join us later, we are still FIRED UP to welcome you!

Limited Capacity Events

Check back at noon on Sept. 2, 2025 to sign up for the following limited capacity events. Seats will be reserved based on which guests sign up first, however, a waitlist will be used to communicate if more spaces become available.

Teaching-Kitchen – Friday, Sept. 26, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. (limited to 12 guests)

Breakfast with the President – Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. (limited to 40 guests)

Schedule of Events

Friday, Sept. 26, 2025 – Welcome Day!

Check-In | 1:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Location TBD

Begin your weekend by checking in with our Parent and Family Services team! Get your questions answered, find out the latest updates to our programming, enter to win our Chippewa Champions prize bundle and get your access pass to the weekend’s events. Can’t make it at this time? A secondary check-in will be available at all Friday and Saturday activities!

Teaching Kitchen | 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.| The Eatery at Carey Hall

Make memories and a treat! Nicole from CMU Campus Dining will be leading a cooking demonstration at The Eatery. All skill levels are welcome whether you are showing off or learning something new. A link to register will be posted at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025 for the first 12 guests.

Exhibition Central | 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Various Locations

Your access pass (available at Check-In) will grant you admission to some of Mount Pleasant’s greatest cultural gems! You’ll be able to see explore the Clarke Historical Library, University Art Gallery, Museum of Cultural and Natural History and The Morey Family Gallery at Art Reach of Mid-Michigan.

Movie Night: Superman | 7:00 p.m. | Biosciences 1010

The votes are in, and our supporters have chosen Superman! This new take on an old favorite will be screened alongside children’s crafts and fresh popcorn. This film is rated PG-13 with a run time of 129 minutes.

Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 – Game Day!

President’s Breakfast | 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Biosciences 1010

Join President MacKinnon and our Parent and Family Services team for a continental breakfast. Grab some pastries, fruit, and coffee to fuel your game day! Our Family of the Year Award winners will be recognized.

Check-In | 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.| Location TBD

Check-In will resume for new arrivals! Get your questions answered, find out the latest updates to our programming, enter to win our Chippewa Champions prize bundle and get your access pass to the weekend’s events.

Zonta Applefest | 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. | Papa’s Pumpkin Patch

Join the Zonta Club of Mt Pleasant for the 36^th Annual Applefest. Activities such as children’s games, craft sale, food trucks, bake sale and farm produce will be available with donuts and apple cider! Proceeds benefit our local Zonta Club.  Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Bohannon Schoolhouse Tour | 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Bohannon Schoolhouse

CMU was founded in 1892 to offer a formal training in the “norms” of teaching and Michigan’s second normal school was born. The Bohannon School opened in 1901 and still stands to provide an education over 120 years later! Learn about our past at this monument to rural education.

Tailgate Throwdown | Time TBD | Location TBD

Who is the king of the tailgate lot? Looking to catch a thrill near the grill? Watch chefs from the dining team at Eastern Michigan battle those from CMU Dining! Final time and location will be announced when game time is finalized!

Eastern Michigan University vs. Central Michigan University Football | Time TBD | Kelly/Shorts Stadium

Witness the oldest rivalry in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) that started in 1902 and continues 123 years later on the field at Kelly/Shorts Stadium. Watch for more information when ticket sales open August 11^th to learn about our Ticket/Concession Bundle offered to Family & Friends Weekend guests.

Sunday, September 28^th – Community Day!

Discounts & Deals | All Day | Various Locations

Check in at Friday or Saturday’s events for your access pass and a list of our participating local businesses. Grab a coffee or breakfast before heading home or find a sale available to Family & Friends Weekend guests.

Parent and family guide

Your student is supported by many resources throughout campus! Check out the Parent and family guide to understand all that is available - from academic support to CMU processes and services.