Events

Parents and families are welcome to email us your questions to parents@hofstra.edu prior to any of these events, either related or unrelated to the programming’s topics. All virtual events will be recorded for later viewing. To attend most events, especially those that are virtual, registration is required through the provided links.

Spring 2025

Thursday, January 16, 2025, 7-8 p.m. ET
Timely Topics: Is My Student’s Scholarship in Jeopardy?
Virtual Event
Register Here
Students received their fall grades. Now is the time to plan for the spring semester. Join Executive Director of Student Financial Services Teri Cox, Dean of University Advising Marc Oppenheim, and Executive Director of Student Access Services as they explain how their staff help students create an academic plan for improvement and find services on campus that they need to succeed. The Academic Coaching program will be explained.

Wednesday, January 29, 2025, 7-8 p.m. ET
Dean of Students: How We Support Our Students
Virtual Event
Register Here
As the spring semester begins, is your student aware of all Hofstra’s resources? Join us as we remind you how we support your student’s well-being, both in and out of the classroom. Students cannot thrive without feeling healthy, safe, and supported in academics and co-curricular activities. Dean of Students Chermele Christy will answer your questions. This is also the first Parent and Family Council meeting of the spring semester. Learn how you can get engaged as a family member.

Tuesday, February 11, 2025, 7 p.m. EST
Language Detectives: Forensic Linguistics Applications to Intelligence, Law Enforcement, and Corporate Security – and Leonard’s FBI training courses now offered to Hofstra students
Virtual Event
Register Here
Robert Leonard, PhD, Professor of Linguistics
Dr. Leonard explains how the scientific analysis of language evidence is a powerful tool to prevent and solve crimes. Techniques he taught at Quantico are currently preparing Hofstra graduates for positions such as the ones past students have secured after graduation at financial institutions, private intelligence agencies, cybersecurity, language analytics, victim advocacy, threat prevention teams, software development, financial services, FBI, NCIS, Department of Justice, DHS Intelligence and Analysis, NYPD, U.S. and European law firms, and PhD programs in the United States and abroad.

Thursday, January 16, 2025, 7-8 p.m. ET
Timely Topics: Is My Student’s Scholarship in Jeopardy?
Virtual Event
Register Here
Students received their fall grades. Now is the time to plan for the spring semester. Join Executive Director of Student Financial Services Teri Cox, Dean of University Advising Marc Oppenheim, and Executive Director of Student Access Services as they explain how their staff help students create an academic plan for improvement and find services on campus that they need to succeed. The Academic Coaching program will be explained.

Wednesday, January 29, 2025, 7-8 p.m. ET
Dean of Students: How We Support Our Students
Virtual Event
Register Here
As the spring semester begins, is your student aware of all Hofstra’s resources? Join us as we remind you how we support your student’s well-being, both in and out of the classroom. Students cannot thrive without feeling healthy, safe, and supported in academics and co-curricular activities. Dean of Students Chermele Christy will answer your questions. This is also the first Parent and Family Council meeting of the spring semester. Learn how you can get engaged as a family member.

Tuesday, February 11, 2025, 7 p.m. EST
Language Detectives: Forensic Linguistics Applications to Intelligence, Law Enforcement, and Corporate Security – and Leonard’s FBI training courses now offered to Hofstra students
Virtual Event
Register Here
Robert Leonard, PhD, Professor of Linguistics
Dr. Leonard explains how the scientific analysis of language evidence is a powerful tool to prevent and solve crimes. Techniques he taught at Quantico are currently preparing Hofstra graduates for positions such as the ones past students have secured after graduation at financial institutions, private intelligence agencies, cybersecurity, language analytics, victim advocacy, threat prevention teams, software development, financial services, FBI, NCIS, Department of Justice, DHS Intelligence and Analysis, NYPD, U.S. and European law firms, and PhD programs in the United States and abroad.

Fall 2024

Please note that we record most online sessions below so families who cannot attend may view them later. When a session is not being recorded, we note it in the event description. You may view the video recordings by clicking on the WATCH VIDEO link under the event title and date within three business days of the video stream. You may email us your questions for presenters ahead of any online event at parents@hofstra.edu.

Job Search: Seniors and Graduates
Wednesday, June 26, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
Join Senior Associate Director for Career Development Sandra Buatti-Ramos in this session designed for parents and families of seniors and recent graduates who are navigating entry into the professional job market. This interactive support session provides a platform for parents and families to ask questions, discover valuable resources available to their graduates, and engage with the Center for Career Design and Development professionals. Learn how to coordinate support for your graduate, gain insights into effective search and networking strategies, and connect with a supportive community dedicated to your graduate’s success. Together, we can help graduates achieve their career goals! Register for either or both webinars at the links above.

Benefits of Living on Campus
Wednesday, July 10, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
Executive Director of Campus Living Beth McGuire Fredericks explains how living in the residence halls on Hofstra's campus is more than just having a place to sleep and study. Making connections, safety, and a myriad of in-hall events and social opportunities are the highlights of campus living. Even if your student has not yet completed the housing application, there is still time to do so before the start of the fall semester.

Coffee Hour with Parent and Family Council
Wednesday, July 24, 2024
4-5 p.m. ET
Watch Video
Join our current parent leaders who explain how you, as a parent or family member, can get engaged at Hofstra. The Parent and Family Council members introduce their projects for the next academic year. We all work together so our students thrive.

Job Search: Seniors and Graduates
Monday, July 29, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
Join Senior Associate Director for Career Development Sandra Buatti-Ramos in this session designed for parents and families of seniors and recent graduates who are navigating entry into the professional job market. This interactive support session provides a platform for parents and families to ask questions, discover valuable resources available to their graduates, and engage with the Center for Career Design and Development professionals. Learn how to coordinate support for your graduate, gain insights into effective search and networking strategies, and connect with a supportive community dedicated to your graduate’s success. Together, we can help graduates achieve their career goals! Register for either or both webinars at the links above.

Virtual Career Orientation
Monday, August 12, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
Join Senior Associate Director for Career Development Sandra Buatti-Ramos for an insightful webinar designed for parents and families of incoming first-year college students to prepare them for their students' transition to college career development. Discover the significant impact of early engagement with career services on your students' future career outcomes. Our webinar will delve into data-driven insights, showcasing why students must connect with the career office from day one and maintain ongoing engagement throughout their college journeys. Learn about the personalized, in-person career coaching available to students, tailored to their unique aspirations and goals and explore the cutting-edge technology and wealth of resources offered to students through Hofstra's Center for Career Design and Development. Additionally, Hofstra's Student Employment team will provide an overview of how your students can obtain on-campus jobs. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and support for your students' successful career development journey!

What to Expect in the First Year of College
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
Marc Oppenheim, dean of the Center for University Advising, and Branka Kristic, director of Parent and Family Programs and assistant dean of students, describe the first-year milestones of the college journey. Which deadlines are important to keep in mind? When do students make appointments with their advisors and faculty? What can your student do when they are ill or have a personal emergency? Can students have guidance if they have dietary restrictions or allergies? We will answer all these questions and more. Bring your questions, too!

American College Experience
Monday, August 19, 2024
9-10 a.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
As international students begin their college journey at Hofstra University, Director of International Student Enrollment Shannon Paul and Director of Parent and Family Programs and Assistant Dean of Students Branka Kristic will describe the academic curriculum, services for students, and answer your questions about Hofstra's resources for international students. The session will be in English and will be recorded for later viewing.

Engaging Commuters on Campus
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
Join Anita Ellis, director of Commuting Student Services and Community Engagement, who explains how commuters can get a full college experience and become connected to other students on campus.

Logistics of Moving Into Residence Halls
Thursday, August 22, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
If you have any last-minute questions about the move-in, join the staff of Residence Life for this interactive session. We will describe how the move-in day will flow. Read the Move-In Brochure for helpful information, including the prohibited items in the residence halls.

Welcome to New Academic Year
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
Senior Vice President for Student Enrollment, Engagement, and Success Jessica Eads and Dean of Students Chermele Christy explain how Hofstra is preparing for the new academic year. We welcome your questions.

Parent and Family Welcome Day
Thursday, August 29, 2024
8 a.m.-4 p.m.
In-Person Event
We welcome our new students and families! Please attend the events for parents as our new students begin their Welcome Week. No registration is necessary.

How Students With Disabilities Thrive at Hofstra
Thursday, September 5, 2024
6-7 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
Join Executive Director of Student Access Services (SAS) Caitlin Sullivan and her team, as they describe the resources SAS provides, important accommodation policies and procedures for students, and assistive technologies available. Knowing and using their resources early in the semester is key to student success.

How to Navigate College
Wednesday, September 11, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
WATCH VIDEO
Russ Smith, director of First-Generation Student Support and Engagement explains how Hofstra supports students who are first in their family to go to college. Knowing how to navigate college is half of student success.

TIMELY TOPICS: Tutoring, Study Skills, Voter Registration, Career Planning
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
WATCH VIDEO
Parents and families of Hofstra students are invited to join the panel of Hofstra experts who will answer their questions. The topics discussed in this webinar will include:

academic deadlines for the fall 2024 semester;
academic and study skills resources;
Mid-semester progress reports and tutoring;
how parents support students in designing their career path;
how students register to vote.

You are welcome to bring questions unrelated to the topics above. You may email us your questions before the online session to parents@hofstra.edu.

Mathematics and the Five Elements of a Meaningful Career
Thursday, September 26, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
WATCH VIDEO
In this online talk, Prof. Behailu Mammo will discuss the five elements of a meaningful career and argue that skills in mathematical thinking play a crucial role in developing one’s career. We will also discuss some reliable ways to learn mathematics. Prof. Mammo is one of our past Teacher of the Year Award recipients.

Hofstra Fall Festival: Alumni, Student, and Family Weekend
Friday, September 27-Sunday, September 29, 2024
In-Person Event
Come back to see how your student is adjusting to a new academic year and have fun! See the program and register for Family Weekend online at lower prices.

What Does Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Mean Within Student Access Services?
Tuesday, October 1, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
WATCH VIDEO
Executive Director for Equity and Inclusion Aisha Wilson-Carter and Associate Director for Student Access Services Kenia Nunez discuss how Hofstra works to create a sense of belonging for students with disabilities and supports their academic and social well-being. Prof. Mary Banahan, the founder of the SAS Parent Support Network, answers your questions. Click here to register.

Book Discussion - Americanah: A Novel
Thursday, October 17, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
WATCH VIDEO
Dr. Katrina Rochelle Sims (Faculty-in-Residence to the first-year residential community and associate professor of History) cordially invites parents and families to participate in an online discussion of the enthralling book, Adichie's Americanah: A Novel. Author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is the writer invited to present to students and community as a part of the Great Writers, Great Readings Series. Several of Hofstra students will showcase their talents as presiders and moderators. Register soon! First three parents who register and email parents@hofstra.edu receive a hard copy of Adichie’s book.

TIMELY TOPICS: Spring Registration and Payment Plan, Mid-Semester Progress Reports, Dining Options
Monday, October 21, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
WATCH VIDEO
Parents and families of Hofstra students are invited to join the panel of Hofstra experts who will answer their questions. The topics discussed will include:

logistics of registration;
making an appointment with advisor;
Spring 25 payment plan
Meal options on campus and dietary restrictions.

You are welcome to bring questions unrelated to the topics above. You may email us your questions before the online session to parents@hofstra.edu.

Cody Rapp: Navigating Today's Complex Job Market
Tuesday, October 22, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
WATCH VIDEO
Guest speaker Cody Rapp, 2x Ed-Tech Employee #1, is a dynamic and innovative expert in workforce development, people management, and recruiting trends. With over a decade of experience in the education and technology sectors, Cody has established himself as a go-to speaker for insights on preparing for the careers of tomorrow. His passion for helping others thrive in their careers is evident in his tailored, actionable insights for navigating today’s complex job market.

Event Highlights:

Real talk on what it takes to succeed in the job market of tomorrow
Insights into generational trends and the future of work
Strategies for adapting to technological advancements and mastering change management
Tips on building relationships and navigating recruitment trends

Teaching and Using Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
WATCH VIDEO
Provost Charlie Riordan explains how Hofstra’s faculty uses AI in the classroom and teaches students the ethical use of technology.

Thanksgiving Homestay
Local Hofstra families who are interested in hosting for Thanksgiving international Hofstra students should complete, sign, and scan the Thanksgiving Homestay Host Form and email it to parents@hofstra.edu. The deadline to apply is Monday, November 11, 2024.

Difficult Conversations: Creating Calm Through Connection and Communication
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
WATCH VIDEO
A difficult conversation with your child is one that involves a sensitive or potentially troublesome subject and may elicit strong emotional responses that are difficult to predict. However, by adopting the right approach, preparing for these conversations, and developing the necessary skills, we can handle them effectively and achieve a successful conclusion that works for everyone involved. Dr. Keesha Cameron, assistant clinical director of the Student Counseling Services and NYS licensed clinical psychologist, will give parents and family members tools on how to guide their college students through difficult moments.

The Importance of Internships and Experiential Learning
Tuesday, November 12, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
WATCH VIDEO
Our career design experts will discuss planning for internships from the first semester of the first year, what constitutes experiential learning, and how students connect to career coaches in the Center for Career Design & Development. Taking advantage of Hofstra’s career resources is as important as getting good grades in college courses.

Benefits of Study Abroad
Thursday November 21, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
WATCH VIDEO
We encourage your student to consider the options Hofstra offers to spend a semester, month, or just a week abroad earning academic credit and gaining invaluable skills. Cassie Larson, director of Study Abroad Programs, will give an overview of the different program types, funding, resources, and how your student can get started.

TIMELY TOPICS: Finals, Move-Out, Graduation, Winter Break
December 4, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
WATCH VIDEO
Parents and families of Hofstra students are invited to join the panel of Hofstra experts who will answer their questions.

The topics discussed will be:

How to prepare for finals;
Checking out of residence halls;
December graduation;
January Intersession.

You are welcome to bring questions unrelated to the topics above. You may email us your questions before the online session to parents@hofstra.edu.

Holiday Baking Night
December 5, 2024
7:30-9 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
REGISTER HERE
Join Parent and Family Council Events Committee members for a fun evening while they bake together and play holiday trivia. See the recipe below:

Double Delicious Cookie Bars Recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup butter melted 1
(14 oz) can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 cup (6 oz) semi-sweet (or substitute milk) chocolate chips
1 cup (6 oz) peanut butter-flavored (or substitute white chocolate or butterscotch) chips

Instructions

Heat oven to 350 degrees (325 degrees for a glass dish)
Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a small bowl; mix well
Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 13 X 9 inch baking pan
Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crumb mixture. Layer evenly with remaining ingredients; press down firmly with a fork.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool. Cut into bars.
For perfectly cut bars: Line the entire pan with a sheet of foil. Coat lightly with no-stick cooking spray. When the bars are cool, lift the edges of the foil to remove from pan. Cut into individual squares. Lift off the foil.

Recipe by Stephanie Kepke Kaplan
Hofstra University Parent and Family Council

NYC Holiday Party
December 10, 2024
6-8 p.m. ET
Club 101 | 101 Park Avenue at 40th Street | Manhattan
REGISTER HERE
Join alumni and other Hofstra families for a festive holiday celebration in New York City. President Susan Poser hosts.

Job Search: Seniors and Graduates
Wednesday, June 26, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
Join Senior Associate Director for Career Development Sandra Buatti-Ramos in this session designed for parents and families of seniors and recent graduates who are navigating entry into the professional job market. This interactive support session provides a platform for parents and families to ask questions, discover valuable resources available to their graduates, and engage with the Center for Career Design and Development professionals. Learn how to coordinate support for your graduate, gain insights into effective search and networking strategies, and connect with a supportive community dedicated to your graduate’s success. Together, we can help graduates achieve their career goals! Register for either or both webinars at the links above.

Benefits of Living on Campus
Wednesday, July 10, 2024
7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual Event
Watch Video
Executive Director of Campus Living Beth McGuire Fredericks explains how living in the residence halls on Hofstra's campus is more than just having a place to sleep and study. Making connections, safety, and a myriad of in-hall events and social opportunities are the highlights of campus living. Even if your student has not yet completed the housing application, there is still time to do so before the start of the fall semester.

Coffee Hour with Parent and Family Council
Wednesday, July 24, 2024
4-5 p.m. ET
Watch Video
Join our current parent leaders who explain how you, as a parent or family member, can get engaged at Hofstra. The Parent and Family Council members introduce their projects for the next academic year. We all work together so our students thrive.