UMKC’s 2025 Family Weekend left students with mixed feelings about the annual event.
Family Weekend is a celebration of connection, giving students and their loved ones a chance to share in the college experience.
From clues of places to go around campus like a scavenger hunt, to painting sessions and even discounted theater tickets, the event’s primary goal is to highlight the importance of support systems.
For sophomore Tacee Catlett, family remains at the center of her college journey.
“Family is super important because they’re not only a main source of financial support, but also they provide emotional support,” Catlett said. “They are my reason for wanting to go to college and pursue further education to make them proud.”
For some, Family Weekend didn’t carry the same weight as it might for students whose relatives were able to attend.
“This is my chosen family, not my biological family, so I have a different standpoint,” said freshman psychology student Dylan Acree.
Acree mentioned that for first generation students, the absence of biological family during events like Family Weekend can feel isolating, but chosen family helps bridge that gap. “Being the first-gen means my family doesn’t always understand how college works,” Acree said.
Other students suggest the events felt scarce compared to what they imagined a major campus tradition might deliver.
“While Family Weekend creates a sense of community and being outdoors, the lighter participation makes me wonder if it’s really living up to its promise,” said Junior Cate Maxey.
Looking ahead to next year, students suggested adding more interactive activities. From cornhole to family versus family games to make the event feel more engaging and competitive.
