May 14, 1999

President’s Open House a rousing success

by Nicole Danos, A’96, Admissions Counselor

On April 10, more than 520 students and parents convened on Loyola’s campus as part of the third annual President’s Open House. A bigger and better event each year, the Open House, hosted by University President Bernard P. Knoth, S.J., is an invitation to all 1999 admitted freshmen and their families to visit Loyola and learn about the many aspects of student life.

This year, 367 students and 523 guests participated in the day’s events, an impressive 20-percent increase over last year’s student attendance. Throughout the day, perspective students and parents learned about the relationship between students and the office of university police, Residential Life, Counseling and Career Services, Campus Ministry, Dining Services, library, academic computing, and more. There were special tours of the new J. Edgar and Louise S. Monroe Library and a furnished room in the new residence hall.

Faculty, staff, and volunteers turned out in great numbers to help make the day informative and enjoyable. This year, nearly 200 members of the Loyola community assisted with check-in, facilitated sessions, and staffed information tables.

Student volunteers gave campus tours, participated on a student life panel, and represented their organizations at the Departmental and Student Activities Fair. In addition to the Loyola community volunteers, about 30 alumni participated in the event by serving on an alumni/parent panel or meeting and greeting students at the President’s Reception.

Overall, the President’s Open House was a huge success–from participation to the beautiful weather. One student commented, “I appreciate the opportunity to attend such a program. You have assured my attendance next fall. I think I will become a better person and my academic standing will be nurtured and cared for.” A parent echoed these sentiments: “Thanks for a wonderful Open House experience. I get the feeling that you will nurture and genuinely care for my son while providing an excellent academic learning environment.”