Family & Supporter Orientation

We know that this is also an exciting (and maybe a little nervous) time for parents, families, and supporters of our new Spiders. Whether this is your first student to go off to college, or one of several, we want to you feel welcomed and learn about resources available to your student.

During Pre-Orientation Programs and New Spider Orientation, there are programs and events designed for parents, families, and supporters to help them know how to best support their student. These programs and events are mostly separate from the student orientation schedule, but also align with when students have breaks in their day.

Fall 2025 Orientation

You can find the Pre-Orientation and New Spider Orientation schedule here.  On the right hand side of the screen you are able to sort by different tracks to better understand the schedule and what is available to you.  By clicking on "Family & Supporters" you will be able to see your schedule.

We offer two different Family & Supporter Orientations due to some students arrive early for our Pre-Orientation Programs.  While the schedules look a little different, the information shared is the same so you do not need to attend them both.  Therefore, if you have a studnet in Endeavor, Outdoor Adventure Richmond (OAR), or International Orientation, you will attend the Pre-Orientation Program Family & Supporter Orientation.  Please find further details below.

Pre-Orientation Program Family & Supporter Orientation

Sunday, August 17, 2025

  • 7-8:30pm, Pre-Orientation Programs Family & Supporter Reception, Queally Center and Courtyard

Monday, August, 18, 2025

  • 9:30-10am, Pre-Orientation Family & Supporter Orientation: University Welcome, Booker Hall of Music Camp Concert Hall
  • 10-10:45am, Pre-Orientation Family & Supporter Orientation: Academic Welcome, Booker Hall of Music Camp Concert Hall
  • 11am-12pm, Pre-Orientation Family & Supporter Orientation: Richmond & Westhampton College Deans Welcome & Student Life Panel, Booker Hall of Music Camp Concert Hall
  • 12-2pm, Optional Lunch with Your Student, Heilman Dining Center

Family & Supporter Orientation

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

  • 7-7:45pm, University Welcome, Robins Center

Thursday, August 21, 2025

  • 10-10:45am, Family & Supporter Orientation: Academic Welcome, Jepson Alumni Center (JAC) Robins Pavillion
  • 11am-12pm, Family & Supporter Orientation: Richmond & Westhampton College Deans Welcome & Student Life Panel,Jepson Alumni Center (JAC) Robins Pavillion
  • 12-2pm, Optional Lunch with Your Student, Heilman Dining Center

Accommodations for Parents & Families

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide housing to parents, families and supporters, but there are a number of hotels and accommodations within the city of Richmond. It is recommended that you make reservations well in advance to ensure adequate lodging.