Parents, forgive your son or daughter if they don't have much time to talk during their first few weeks at McDaniel. They'll be busy unpacking, meeting their roommates, and becoming familiar with the College and its community. They will have plenty of time to share what they've learned during Families Weekend Sept. 30-Oct 2.

The highlight of the weekend will be the dedication of the college's new $9-million academic building that will house Education, Psychology, Student Academic Services, and Graduate and Professional Studies.

In "There Shall Be No Alps," families are invited to hear about the history of McDaniel College and its namesake, William R. McDaniel, in a presentation led by College Historian and Emeritus Mathematics Professor James Lightner '59.

Hands-on learning is one of the cornerstones of a liberal arts education. McDaniel students participate in research projects across all disciplines. During Families Weekend, faculty and students will talk about their research collaborations in the classroom, during summers, and as senior capstone experiences.

In today's society, students benefit from learning with a global perspective in mind. That is the focus of "The World Beyond Westminster: Opportunities for Study Abroad." Parents and students can take part in a panel discussion with Study Abroad Director Rose Falkner and students who have recently returned from study at the McDaniel campus in Budapest, Hungary, or have participated in other study-abroad programs.

Cheer on the Green Terror teams Saturday afternoon, as they play volleyball, field hockey, soccer, and football. McDaniel lays claim to the only drive-in football stadium in perhaps the world, where fans tailgate during the game.

Afterwards, sit back and enjoy a concert from Chamber Music on the Hill or a free musical and comedy show presented by students and faculty.

Families weekend is also about exploring the town of Westminster. Take part in McDaniel College's downtown walking tour that hits all the hot spots and shopping areas. You can take advantage of some great deals when you use your downtown discount card (available at registration). But you need not go far for a great deal – families will receive a 10-percent discount on everything but textbooks at the College Store Open House on Saturday.