

2 0 2 5 F A M I L Y W E E K E N D

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2 0 2 5 F A M I L Y W E E K E N D

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WelcometoFamilyWeekend2025!
We’resogladyou’reheretoexperienceasliceoflifeatUC SantaCruzandcelebratethejourneyyourstudentison.
Yourinvolvementandsupportmakeameaningfuldifferencein ourcampuscommunity.Thisweekendisanopportunityto exploreourstunningsurroundings,meetfacultyandstaff, engagewithcampusprograms,andconnectwithfellow BananaSlugfamilies.
Wehopetheevents,conversations,andsharedexperiences leaveyoufeelingevenmoreconnectedtoUCSantaCruz—and proudtobepartoftheSlugfamily.
Thankyouforjoiningus.Enjoytheweekend!
Sincerely, TheUCSantaCruzFamilyWeekendTeam

1:00 - 8:00 PM
Woodstock's Pizza, 710 Front Street, Downtown Santa Cruz
Visit our Friday check-in space at Woodstock's Pizza in downtown Santa Cruz! Stop by to check in, pick up any materials & merchandise, and connect with our Family Weekend team.
4:00 - 7:00 PM
First Friday Festivities & Art Tour
Assorted Locations, Downtown Santa Cruz firstfridaysantacruz.com
First Friday Santa Cruz is a monthly Art Tour across the county, featuring exhibits and events in our local galleries and art spaces
First Friday at Institute of Arts & Sciences (IAS)
IAS, 100 Panetta Ave
Thinking of you: Letter Writing and Community. Come create your own personalized card and herb bundles for yourself, a loved one, and incarcerated artists featured in the current Visions from Within exhibit.
6:00 - 8:00 PM
UCSC's Men’s Basketball Game vs Redlands
UCSC West Field House
Come check out the Banana Slugs in action as our Men's Basketball team takes on Redlands University in a home game here on campus
7:00 - 9:30 PM
Mathew Hartle Band at Abbott Square
725 Front Street, Santa Cruz
With a background in jazz and a passion for blending rock, blues, folk, and improvisation, this band is one that can’t be missed
Note: Parking on Friday is only available at the following downtown garages:
Locust St. Parking Structure
River/Front Parking Structure
Soquel/Front Parking Structure
Any cars parked in the Trader Joe's lot will be ticketed or towed.



8:00 AM - 4:00 PM: CHECK IN Quarry Plaza
8:00 - 10:00 AM
College Morning Meet Ups
This session invites family and friends to connect more deeply with the college and gain insight into the student experience You’ll hear from students as they share their stories and reflections, learn about the many opportunities that shape life beyond the classroom, and hear from college leadership about the academic and community values that support student learning and belonging
College Breakfast with Cowell and Stevenson
Cowell / Stevenson Dining Hall
Rise and Shine on The Hill: Crown & Merrill Colleges Cultural Center at Merrill
Family Day Lounge at College Nine and John R. Lewis Namaste Lounge
Porter College Reception
Porter Dining Hall / Hitchcock Lounge
Kresge College Family & Friends Welcome
Kresge Academic Building 3105
Oakes + Rachel Carson College: Family Day Breakfast
Oakes Learning Center
Baskin Morning Meet Up (Jack Baskin Auditorium 101)
Join Baskin Engineering for a casual morning of coffee, pastries, and connection! Meet faculty, advisors, and staff and learn how we support student success in engineering at UCSC. We'll begin with a relaxed mixer, followed by a short presentation and Q&A with our Associate Dean, Jim Whitehead.
This program is for families of Baskin Engineering students. The presentation will begin at 8:30 am.
Science Welcome (Science Hill)*
Join Associate Dean Marty Weissman for a warm welcome to the Division of Physical and Biological Sciences Enjoy light refreshments and an overview of the day’s events, celebrating science learning, discovery, and community at UC Santa Cruz
*This program will begin at 9:30 am Student guides will be on hand to walk guests up to Science Hill from Quarry Plaza, beginning at 9 am

10:00 - 11:00 AM
College 1:
Professor Aims McGuinness offers a brief history of a legendary feature of UCSC's undergraduate experience: College 1, or the colleges' " core course " How has the core course changed over time, and what does the core course offer students today?
Strategies
This presentation offers insight into what it means to be “undecided” or “exploratory” and introduces resources and strategies to help students and their families navigate the major exploration process at UCSC We invite first- and second-year students and their families to join us with any questions about exploring majors and how their major choice aligns with their goals and values.
This program will focus on helping parents support their students as they navigate the transition to college. Learn about common challenges students and family members face and the resources available to support students’ emotional health and well-being
The presentation will showcase how student affairs staff support students beyond the classroom. The presenters will highlight key student resources, including (but not limited to) residence life, counseling, career services, student organizations, and resource centers, to promote personal growth, leadership, and a sense of belonging. Parents and family members will learn how Student Affairs practitioners work with students to foster a supportive campus environment Also, learn more about how your student has been engaged in campus life during the first six weeks of the fall quarter
Discover how UCSC's campus housing team creates a safe, supportive, and dynamic environment for students This presentation will explore the diverse residential communities, amenities, and services that foster personal growth and academic success Whether your student currently lives on campus or is navigating the housing process for their second, third, or fourth year, gain valuable insights into how UCSC housing supports their evolving needs and enhances their college journey.
Join us for a presentation and conversation to better understand the changing world of LGBTQIA2S+ identities We will explore different ways to support queer and trans students amid changing political and social realities We will also share resources to help families affirm and celebrate sexual and gender diversities
Mathematics is more than equations it’s a way of thinking about patterns, logic, and the beauty of ideas. In this interactive talk, Professor Beren Sanders will explore how mathematicians approach their work, revealing the creativity and wonder behind one of humanity’s oldest disciplines Open to all audiences; no math background required

Saturday, November 8
10:00 - 11:00 AM
EmpoweringDiversity:ProgramsandServicesofEthnic,Gender,and SexualityResourceCentersatUCSantaCruz(StevensonRoom175)
ThispresentationwillcoverprogramsandservicesofferedtoallstudentsbyUCSantaCruz's ResourceCenters,whichincludetheAfricanAmericanResourceandCulturalCenter,American IndianResourceCenter,AsianAmerican/PacificIslanderResourceCenter,ElCentro:ChicanxLatinx ResourceCenter,LionelCantúQueerResourceCenter,andWomen’sCenter.Learnhowthese centerscreateasenseofbelongingandprovideopportunitiestogainleadershipandprofessional development,engageinculturalcelebrations,andbenefitfromservicestohelpstudentsthrive academicallyandpersonally Byfosteringaninclusiveenvironment,thecentersempower studentstoexploretheiridentitiesandbuildcommunityoncampus.
MajoratUCSC(ThimannLectureHall3)
Startyouracademicjourneywithconfidence!Thissessionhelpsstudentsandfamiliesunderstand howtheprocessofchoosinganddeclaringasciencemajorworksatUCSantaCruz Learnhow studentsexploretheirinterests,completekeycourses,andmakeinformedchoicesabouttheir academicpaths withtheguidanceofadvisors,instructors,andfamilysupport.
JoinalumnusandartistJeremyCarlsonforahands-ontie-dyeworkshopwherecreativityand colorcomealive!Learnfuntechniquesanddesignyourownvibrantmasterpieceunderexpert guidance.
*Participationis$25andincludesapreppedshirt.Ticketsmaybepurchasedatthedoor.
11:00 - 12:00 PM
ApoyandoatuBananaSlugLGBTQIA+(MerrillAcademic,Room102)
Únaseanosotrosparaunapresentaciónyconversaciónconelfindecomprendermejorelmundo delasidentidadesLGBTQIA2S+ Exploraremosdiferentesformasdeapoyaraestudiantescuiry transdadalasrealidadespolíticasysocialesdeestemomento Tambiéncompartiremos recursosparaayudaralasfamiliasaafirmarycelebrarladiversidadsexualydegénero
YourstudentshavetheopportunitytoexperiencetheworldthroughenrichingUCSCGlobal Learningprogramsaspartoftheirundergraduatedegree UCSCoffersavarietyofinternational anddomesticprogramsthatallowyourstudentstofulfilldegreerequirementswhileengaging withothercultures,broadeningtheirperspectivesandinvolvementwiththeworld,theiracademic focus,andprofessionalgoals.LearnabouttheprogramsavailableandthewaysGlobalLearning supportsstudentsthroughtheprocess,includingacademics,financialaid,andhealthandsafety
AcademicExcellence(ACE):HelpingStudentsSucceedintheSciences (Earth&MarineSciencesB206)
DiscoverhowUCSantaCruz’sAcademicExcellence(ACE)Programempowersstudentstothrivein challengingscienceandmathcourses.Throughsmall-groupcollaborativelearning,inclusive pedagogy,andpeermentoring,ACEhelpsstudentsbuildmastery,confidence,andastrongsense ofbelonginginthesciences Learnhowthisnationallyrecognizedprogramworks andwhy participationcanmakealastingdifferenceinyourUCSCexperience

11:00 - 12:00 PM
Paying for College: How to Create a Financial Plan for the Academic Year (Cowell 131)
How good would it feel to know you have enough money to pay for all college and living expenses during the academic year? Join Tiffany Zachmeier from Student Business Services and the SlugCents Financial Wellness Program for guidance, strategies, and tools to help you:
>Estimate and organize all your college expenses, financial aid, and other funding resources
>Identify potential funding gaps
>Learn about options that may help you find more money for school
Faculty Lecture: The Internet of Things for Social Good
Lecture Hall)
Professor Katia Obraczka will present her research on the Internet of Things (IoT) and its applications to address significant societal problems, including climate change, food security, and health care
in
the
UC Santa Cruz is transforming the way students learn science by doing science Join Physics Lecturer Eliina Karyndinha to explore how faculty and ACE Teaching Fellows use active learning and inclusive pedagogy to turn classrooms into spaces of curiosity, collaboration, and discovery.
This presentation offers insight into what it means to be “undecided” or “exploratory” and introduces resources and strategies to help students and their families navigate the major exploration process at UCSC. We invite first- and second-year students and their families to join us with any questions about exploring majors and how their major choice aligns with their goals and values
Discover how UCSC's campus housing team creates a safe, supportive, and dynamic environment for students This presentation will explore the diverse residential communities, amenities, and services that foster personal growth and academic success. Whether your student currently lives on campus or is navigating the housing process for their second, third, or fourth year, gain valuable insights into how UCSC housing supports their evolving needs and enhances their college journey
This presentation will cover programs and services offered to all students by UC Santa Cruz's Resource Centers, which include the African American Resource and Cultural Center, American Indian Resource Center, Asian American/Pacific Islander Resource Center, El Centro: Chicanx Latinx Resource Center, Lionel Cantú Queer Resource Center, and Women’s Center Learn how these centers create a sense of belonging and provide opportunities to gain leadership and professional development, engage in cultural celebrations, and benefit from services to help students thrive academically and personally. By fostering an inclusive environment, the centers empower students to explore their identities and build community on campus.

12:00-2:00 PM
Join us from 12–2 PM at Founders Glen (Cowell/Humanities) and Quarry Plaza for an afternoon of food, fun, and community! Enjoy delicious lunch options, check out some local vendors, browse work by talented student artists, snap a pic at the vintage bus photo booth, and so much more. A perfect way to relax, connect, and celebrate Family Weekend together!

Woodstock's Pizza (12-2 pm)
Dos Hermanos Pupuseria Food Truck (11-2 pm)
Pana Venezuelan Food Truck (11-2 pm)
S&B Food Truck (11 - 8 pm)
Togo’s Sandwiches (11-2 pm)
Tacquizas Gabriel Food Truck (11-8 pm)
College Nine/JRL Dining Hall (7 am - 11 pm)
Cowell / Stevenson Dining Hall (7 am - 8 pm)
Rachel Carson / Oakes Dining Hall (7 am - 8 pm)
Stevenson Coffee House (11-4 pm)

Lunch can be purchased directly from each vendor.
Tables and chairs will be available in Cowell Courtyard for you to enjoy your lunch with a view.

12:00-2:00 PM
Join Physics faculty for an informal conversation about what makes studying physics at UC Santa Cruz unique. Learn about current research projects, opportunities for student participation, and the collaborative community that drives discovery in the department. Families and students are welcome to stop by anytime during the session
Discover the vibrant community of science students at UC Santa Cruz! Visit interactive displays featuring undergraduate research and student organizations across the physical and biological sciences Talk with students about their experiences in labs, field sites, and outreach programs, and see how curiosity and collaboration drive scientific learning at UCSC
1:00-2:00 PM
Humanities in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (Humanities Lecture Hall)
Few things right now are as controversial, hyped, and feared as artificial intelligence With the rise of generative AI that can write fluent, compelling prose, one question we are all wondering is what that means for the future of writing- and reading-intensive work like that conducted in the Humanities Join us for an enlightening faculty panel featuring our Humanities faculty who teach and research AI. Dean of Humanities and History Professor, Jasmine Alinder, Associate Dean of Research and Professor of Linguistics, Pranav Anand, Associate Professor of History Ben Breen, and Assistant Professor of Philosophy Lauren Lyons, and Associate Professor of Critical Race & Ethnic Studies micha cárdenas will tackle how we are thinking about the humanities in the age of AI and how training in humanistic methods equips our students to navigate the rapidly changing world ahead Whether your student is a Humanities major or not, learn how we are using Humanistic perspectives to tackle the future's biggest problems.


2:00-3:00 PM
Faculty Lecture: UCSC Education: What do the Colleges Have to do with it? (Earth and Marine B206)
Professor Shelly Grabe, Provost of Rachel Carson College, will discuss how the history of the College system at UCSC distinguishes our campus and how students can expect to see that manifest in their education and opportunities in their time at UCSC.
Learn how UC students, alumni, faculty, staff, and supporters join together to advocate for public higher education This session will introduce families to UCAN’s tools and resources, highlight key issues affecting UC such as funding, affordability, and research and share ways parents and family members can get involved in supporting UC Santa Cruz and the broader UC system
This session aims to equip families with the knowledge and resources to help their UCSC students navigate the path to career success. We will provide an overview of the services, resources, and events we offer students to help them explore career paths and prepare for full-time jobs
This presentation offers insight into what it means to be “undecided” or “exploratory” and introduces resources and strategies to help students and their families navigate the major exploration process at UCSC We invite first- and second-year students and their families to join us with any questions about exploring majors and how their major choice aligns with their goals and values.
Your students have the opportunity to experience the world through enriching UCSC Global Learning programs as part of their undergraduate degree. UCSC offers a variety of international and domestic programs that allow your students to fulfill degree requirements while engaging with other cultures, broadening their perspectives and involvement with the world, their academic focus, and professional goals Learn about the programs available and the ways Global Learning supports students through the process, including academics, financial aid, and health and safety.
This session will include information on preparing for variable costs throughout your college career, maintaining financial aid eligibility, and unique circumstances that may warrant an appeal request. We recognize that for many families, this may be the first time you are pursuing higher education, and for those who have gone through this before, this presentation is an opportunity to learn more about how financial aid works here at UCSC and the tools available to support your student

2:00-3:00 PM
Paying for College: How to Create a Financial Plan for the Academic Year (Cowell 131)
How good would it feel to know you have enough money to pay for all college and living expenses during the academic year? Join Tiffany Zachmeier from Student Business Services and the SlugCents Financial Wellness Program for guidance, strategies, and tools to help you:
>Estimate and organize all your college expenses, financial aid, and other funding resources
>Identify potential funding gaps
>Learn about options that may help you find more money for school
Summer Session 101: How Summer Supports Student Success (Jack Baskin Auditorium 101)
Discover how summer can be an ideal time for your student to make degree progress by completing major or general education requirements. This session highlights the benefits of viewing summer as an optional fourth quarter, including financial aid opportunities and ways it helps students stay on track or get ahead in their academic journey
North Indian Music & Cross-Cultural Collaboration at UCSC (Music Center Room 131)
Join UCSC faculty member Ashwin Batish and DMA candidate Keshav Batish as they introduce the university’s North Indian music program, featuring courses in Hindustani Classical Music, Raga Jazz, and research in Sonic Kinship Together, they will explore how composition, improvisation, and community intersect across UCSC’s vibrant music department This session will run at 2 pm, and again at 2:30 pm


3:00-4:00 PM
Learn how UC students, alumni, faculty, staff, and supporters join together to advocate for public higher education This session will introduce families to UCAN’s tools and resources, highlight key issues affecting UC such as funding, affordability, and research and share ways parents and family members can get involved in supporting UC Santa Cruz and the broader UC system.
This session will include information on preparing for variable costs throughout your college career, maintaining financial aid eligibility, and unique circumstances that may warrant an appeal request. We recognize that for many families, this may be the first time you are pursuing higher education, and for those who have gone through this before, this presentation is an opportunity to learn more about how financial aid works here at UCSC and the tools available to support your student
How good would it feel to know you have enough money to pay for all college and living expenses during the academic year? Join Tiffany Zachmeier from Student Business Services and the SlugCents Financial Wellness Program for guidance, strategies, and tools to help you:
>Estimate and organize all your college expenses, financial aid, and other funding resources
>Identify potential funding gaps
>Learn about options that may help you find more money for school
Discover how summer can be an ideal time for your student to make degree progress by completing major or general education requirements This session highlights the benefits of viewing summer as an optional fourth quarter, including financial aid opportunities and ways it helps students stay on track or get ahead in their academic journey.
This session aims to equip families with the knowledge and resources to help their UCSC students navigate the path to career success. We will provide an overview of the services, resources, and events we offer students to help them explore career paths and prepare for full-time jobs


4:30 - 6:00 PM
Join us for an exciting showcase of talent as student organizations take the stage with live performances. Ranging from music and dance to spoken word and cultural presentations, each has prepared short performances for us to see a sneak peek of what goes on in their organization. Celebrate the creativity and diversity of our campus community in this showcase event!
6:00 - 9:00 PM
Movie Night Under the Stars: Wicked
Join us for a magical night of music, laughter, and a little bit of Oz! Bring your family and your best Broadway energy to sing along to Wicked’s most beloved songs! Don't forget to bring a blanket to sit on! Light treats & a small selection of food trucks will be available for all guests during the movie.

Hikes led by Adventure Recreation Student Leaders
10:00 - 12:00 pm - Meet at Quarry Plaza
2:00 - 4:00 pm - Meet at Porter Squiggle
Join Adventure Reccreation on Saturday for a casually-paced hike guided by our student Rec Leaders, breathing in the natural beauty of UC Santa Cruz! Bring water, a layer, and comfortable hiking shoes for uneven, hilly terrain Please note that each hike is capped at 25 people
Each time slot has a choice of two different hikes
Beach Clean Up at Santa Cruz Main Beach
10:30 - 12:30 pm at 106 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
Slugs love clean beaches! Join us to clear Main Beach of plastics, cigarette butts, and other debris that harm marine life Supplies provided by the Volunteer Center and the City of Santa Cruz Wharf Sign up ahead of time to secure your spot at https://tinyurl com/akneveau

UC Santa Cruz Arboretum
9:00 - 5:00 pm
Located on the west side of the UCSC campus, the Garden is between the main campus entrance and the west entrance. Make sure to stop by Norrie’s Gift and Garden Shop to purchase a plant to take home!
Seymour Marine Discovery Center
10:00 - 4:00 pm
Located at 100 McAllister Way, about an 8-10 minute drive from the main campus Behind-theScenes Research Tour at 11 AM, 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM
The Mystery Spot (465 Mystery Spot Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95065)
The Mystery Spot is a gravitational anomaly in the redwoods and is a classic attraction in Santa Cruz. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
11:00 - 5:00 pm
Family Weekend participants will receive a discount code for a ride wristband and unlimited attractions on Saturday or Sunday for $34.95.
Bay Tree Campus Store
10:00 - 5:00 pm (Friday)
9:00 - 4:00 pm (Saturday)
10:00-2:00 pm (Sunday)
Located at the Quarry Plaza - the Bay Tree Campus Store is the best place to grab all your UCSC apparel Family Weekend participants will receive 20% off any one UCSC gift item
Institute of Arts & Sciences (100 Panetta Ave, Santa Cruz)
12-5 pm
The Institute of the Arts and Sciences catalyzes the power of the arts to explore the ethical and aesthetic dimensions of today's critical issues


10:00 AM
Lace up your sneakers and start your day with a scenic, fun run/walk through the beautiful East Field and select campus trails! This non-competitive run/walk is a great way for families to enjoy the natural beauty of UC Santa Cruz together, with ocean views, redwood-lined paths, and plenty of Slug spirit along the way All ages and fitness levels are welcome run, jog, or stroll at your own pace! No advance sign-up necessary.
10:30 - 12:00 PM
Donuts with DSAS - the Division of Student Affairs & Success (Quarry Plaza)
As Family Weekend comes to a close on Sunday, it's the perfect time to say farewell to your student and wrap up the weekend on a sweet note. Join us for a casual morning gathering with the Division of Student Affairs, where you can enjoy donuts, coffee, and good company before heading home. It’s a wonderful way to connect with staff and other families one last time before your departure!
1:00 - 3:00 PM
UCSC's Men’s Basketball Game vs Pacific Lutheran Kaiser Permanente Arena, Downtown Santa Cruz
Come check out the Banana Slugs in action as our Men's Basketball team takes on Pacific Lutheran in a home game in Santa Cruz.

Friday

Parking on Friday is only available at the following downtown garages:
Locust St. Parking Structure
River/Front Parking Structure
Soquel/Front Parking Structure
Please DO NOT park in the Trader Joe's / Woodstock’s lot. You will be ticketed or towed.
Saturday
All Family Weekend guests are asked to enter the main campus entrance and park in the East Remote Parking Lot (Lot 104) for free. Guests can walk up to campus, take any shuttle from the East Remote Lot, or ride on Santa Cruz Metro for free.
Other campus lots are available during the weekend for an additional fee Please look for posted signage indicating the rules and regulations for each lot.
Family Weekend / Campus Shuttles will be available until midnight and run on a continuous campus loop.
Sunday
All Family Weekend guests are asked to enter the main entrance of campus and park in either the Hahn Lot (Lot 101) or the East Remote Parking Lot (Lot 104).
Stop by Check-In from 1-8 p m on Friday at Woodstock's or from 8 am -4 p.m. on Saturday in the Quarry Plaza to speak with a Family Weekend staff member. Also, it's a great chance to pick up some Family Weekend swag!










