Following a successful Utah Bound Orientation season, the University of Utah’s Office of Orientation & Transition partnered with Parent Giving to celebrate its fourth season of Summer Send Off events. These fun, informal gatherings are designed to bring together incoming students and their families, and create early connections with fellow Utah Bound families before the fall semester begins.

This July and August, Orientation & Transition hosted six events across the Mountain West, traveling to Orange County, San Francisco, Portland, Seattle, Denver and St. George. At each location, students and families mingled, socialized, and celebrated their next chapter with the University of Utah. These gatherings saw record attendance, fueling an unprecedented sense of excitement and pride for the year ahead. One parent shared, “I’ve had students attend other universities over the years, and nothing compares to what the University of Utah has done to make us feel confident and welcomed.”

Meanwhile, Parent Giving extended the reach of the program, leading events in partnership with alumni families, regional chapters, and staff from Orientation & Transition. Their efforts brought celebration to cities such as New York City, Chicago, Boise and San Diego, where families gathered to connect and share in the anticipation of the upcoming year. These events not only introduced new families to the University of Utah family but also offered alumni the chance to share their experiences and welcome the next generation of the University of Utah. In some cities, even prospective students joined the celebrations, learning more about the university’s spirit and traditions. A family member noted, “These events are so special, and I love that the University is helping us get to know other families in the area and allowing our kids to meet friends before coming to campus.”

Together, the Office of Orientation & Transition and Parent Giving created a welcoming and memorable experience for students, families and alumni alike. Looking ahead, both offices are excited and committed to continuing to expand the program for years to come. With each Summer Send Off, the University of Utah strengthens its tradition of sending students to campus with enthusiasm, connection and a true sense of belonging—all of which have a positive effect on student success and well-being.

To learn more about the Office of Orientation & Transition and Parent Giving, visit orientation.utah.edu or parentgiving.utah.edu.