NEWS

Learning, laughs and lifelong memories at Grandparents University

Alumni and their grandchildren strengthen family bonds on campus

A group of people pose for a photo around the official seal at Central Michigan University. — During Grandparents University, a group of grandparents and grandchildren pose around the CMU seal in Warriner Mall.

Last week, Central Michigan University’s alumni relations staff was proud to host the 18^th annual Grandparents University (GPU) program on campus.

The event featured alumni returning to campus with their grandchildren for three days of intergenerational hands-on learning and fun.

“Grandparents U builds lasting connections — not only between grandparents and grandchildren, but also with the CMU community,” said Hannah Martin, assistant director of alumni engagement. “It’s a chance to create memories while exploring campus, learn something new, and share in the spirit of what it means to be a CMU Chippewa.”

Forty-one families — including 62 grandparents and 66 grandchildren — participated in this year’s program. In addition to staying two nights in residence halls, participants joined daily educational sessions hosted by CMU faculty, staff, and Mount Pleasant community members. Session topics included:

Tie-dye fun with chemistry
Do you want to investigate crimes and keep people safe?
Who wants to be an astronomer?
Podcasting and the art of storytelling
Medical vitals and CPR workshop

A group of people sitting at computers with photo-editing software on their screens. — "Students" at Grandparents University take part in a photo editing session.

For alumna Sue Carey, a retired schoolteacher, attending Grandparents U has become a family tradition. This was her tenth time taking part in the program.

“I want to encourage and model lifelong learning,” Carey said. “I loved going to Central and love spending time with my grandchildren. When I was walking around campus in 1975, I never imagined that I’d be back here with my grandkids, but it’s wonderful to be back.”

Carey brought her 10-year-old grandson, Declan, to GPU this year. He's the fifth of her six grandchildren to attend the program with her.

A woman and a boy smile while working on a craft project in a classroom. The boy has scissors in his hands. — Alumna Sue Carey and her grandson, Declan, attend the egg drop competition session.

“I really like the food and staying in the dorms with my grandparents,” Declan said. “I got to go into all of these cool buildings. My favorite session was making tie-dye shirts.”

Planning an event of this scale takes significant time and collaboration, but Brittany Milan, director of alumni and donor engagement, says it’s worth every effort.

“Grandparents U is a testament to our vibrant campus community,” Milan said. “Many thanks to the volunteers, faculty, staff, and community members who truly make this program a success. This kid-first program brings families together, reflecting the warmth, inclusivity, and spirit that make our campus special.”

From making tie-dye shirts to stargazing, the memories made at Grandparents U prove that learning is ageless, and CMU will always be a place to come home to.

Note: The term Grandparents University® is a registered trademark that originated at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and is used with permission.