Families from all over hopped in their cars or jumped on planes to visit their children and share an event-filled weekend together on campus.
Events over DePauw's annual Family Weekend included the Yo-Yo Ma performance, "Be Great Today" 5k race, a speech given by President Casey, field hockey, volleyball and football games, a family picnic and "DePauw's Got Talent."
Yo-Yo Ma's performance as a part of DePauw Discourse kicked off the events Friday evening.
"It was an inspiring performance," said Betsy Naveaux, mother of freshman Leah Naveaux. "I felt very moved and amazed that my daughter is part of a school that could host such a renowned artist like Yo Yo Ma."
Students and families expressed excitement about the concert and about the fact that DePauw was able to host such a prestigious performer.
"He was amazing. He managed to convey so much emotion with his playing," said freshman Olivia Traynor. "It was like he was telling a story within his instrument. And he was so humble."
Campus came alive Saturday morning, bustling with parents and siblings ready for the day's events. Many woke early Saturday morning to participate in the "Be Great Today" 5k race through the Nature Park. With a large turn out, the run was financially successful, raising over $17,000. The amount will last over 20 years in a fund established through the Putnam County Community Foundation.
"The run was a lot of fun and everyone was trying to support each other to finish," said freshman Matt Bacinich. "The cause was a very good cause that hits close to home for many families, so anything that we could do to help raise awareness for it is a good thing."
But overall, parents enjoyed experiencing life at DePauw for a few days and were impressed by the events.
"It was really great to meet all of our daughter's friends and to see the campus. It made us miss college," said Bev and Steve Aanenson, parents to freshman Stephanie Aanenson.
Another parent, Erin Case, enjoyed meeting her daughter's friends and their families. Students had positive reactions about the weekend as well.
"It was great to see my parents and my little sister. It was fun to introduce them to my new friends," said sophomore Maddie Lovell. "I don't take advantage of calling them very often, so it was fun to hang out and catch up."
Senior Andi Brinker agreed.
"It was great to get the chance to take a break from school and just enjoy spending time with my family," she said.
In all, students and parents expressed good feelings toward the weekend's happenings.
"My overall take on Family Weekend is very good both for the parents and students. It gives the parents a chance to see how their children have handled the transition from high school to college," said freshman Greg Shandor-Devonshire III. "Family weekend was full of memories, and I know they will get better and better."