Grandparent University at OSU draws record attendance

Wednesday, July 25, 2018

A total of 233 families from across the country took part in Grandparent University 2018 at Oklahoma State University last month.

Grandparent University, hosted by the OSU Alumni Association, brought 704 legacies and their grandparents to Stillwater in June for classes taught by OSU faculty and staff, a stay in student housing and on-campus dining. A legacy is any child that has one or even two parents or grandparents who are current members of the OSU Alumni Association.

“Grandparent University, or GPU, is a wonderful opportunity for families to fall in love with everything OSU has to offer,” said Melisa Parkerson, director of student programs for the OSU Alumni Association. “Legacies have the opportunity to see what college life entails, as well as bond with their grandparents and fellow legacies.”

This was the 16th year for OSU’s Grandparent University, which has hosted nearly 6,000 participants since 2003. The program has grown from four majors and 80 participants to 33 majors with a record 704 participants. This year's classes included members from 30 states plus Thailand.

Under the instruction of OSU professors, students learned about their major and participated in a variety of activities. Upon completing their assignments, the participants received a graduation certificate for all their hard work as GPU students. 

Along with classroom activities, GPU also offers time to learn and socialize at the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, swimming at the Colvin Center and cheering at a tailgate with OSU student athletes.

For more information about Grandparent University, the OSU Legacy Program or the OSU Alumni Association, visit orangeconnection.org/legacy.