First-Year Families
This is such an exciting time in your student’s life and incredibly exciting for you, too! Our Office of Family Engagement is eager to welcome you to the Denison community and support you through your student’s experience. Below are a few ways to engage with us this summer before we see you on campus in August.
Check out our Monthly Family Guides
Our family guides provide relevant information to help your family prepare for your student’s arrival at Denison. Not receiving these? Update your contact information here.
Summer Welcome Receptions
All members of the Class of 2030 and their families are invited to participate in Denison’s Summer Welcome Receptions, hosted in various cities across the United States. These casual gatherings are meant to provide first-year students and their families with the opportunity to connect with peers in their area. Register for an event near you!
- Cincinnati | Thursday, June 25 | 6-8 p.m.
- Chicago, North Shore | Tuesday, July 14 | 6-8 p.m.
- Washington, D.C. | Saturday, July 18 | 4-6 p.m.
- Columbus, Ohio | Tuesday, July 21 | 6-8 p.m.
- Downtown Chicago | Wednesday, July 22 | 6-8 p.m.
- Montclair, N.J. | Saturday, Aug. 1 | 4-6 p.m.
- Charlotte, NC | Wednesday, Aug. 5 | 6-8 p.m.
Denison Ready
From understanding the academic process to preparing for residential living, this virtual series was designed to help Denison families feel prepared for this critically important and exciting time. Register for our upcoming sessions following the links below.
- Supporting Your Student’s Academic Experience | Wednesday, June 24 | 7 p.m. ET
- Partnering to Support Your Student’s College Transition | Tuesday, June 30 | 7 p.m. ET
- Helping Your International Student Thrive | Wednesday, July 8 | 8 a.m. ET
- Preparing for Move-In Day | Thursday, Aug. 6 | 7 p.m. ET
Complete the Online Orientation Modules
Denison’s online orientation modules contain great information about the Denison experience and campus resources. These same modules are included in your student’s enrollment checklist. Families may access the modules for additional background.
Join us at Move-In Day
Our whole campus is excited to greet you on Move-In Day. Family Orientation is a wonderful opportunity for parents and families to learn more about Denison resources and strategies for supporting your student as they begin their Denison journey. Join us for a special reception on the evening of Aug. 21, and be sure to participate in the parent and family programming Aug. 22.
Important Note
Book your move-in day accommodations now! Popular places to stay fill up quickly during large events such as move-in day. Cherry Valley Hotel is offering a 15% discount on any nights booked from Aug. 1–31, 2026, at the link below.
We look forward to partnering with you to provide support to your student during these incredibly impactful four years. We can’t wait to see you on The Hill. If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Alumni & Family Engagement.

