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Family Weekend

Department of Orientation & Commuter Student Involvement

Family Weekend

Family Weekend will occur from Thursday, September 12 to Sunday, September 15. We are so excited to welcome you and give you the chance to reconnect with your student, meet other families, and communicate with the faculty and staff. We look forward to helping you make the most of your weekend here at the U! Be sure to take advantage of the many activities we have planned for the weekend, including model classes, interest sessions, receptions, campus events, and more! The full schedule can be found on our website and the UMiami App; major highlights are below

Hurricane Pep Rally | Friday, Sep. 13 at 5:30 p.m.

Bring your energy and spirit to this year's pep rally! Hosted by our spirit programming board, Category 5, and featuring performances by the Frost Band of the Hour and Color Guard, Hurricanettes, and Sunsations. Special appearances by CEO and Acting President Joe Echevarria, Dr. Whitely, Athletic Director Dan Radakovich, and Sebastian the Ibis!

Family Weekend Block Party & Food Truck Rally | Friday, Sep. 13 at 6-8:30 p.m.

Activities include: Food Truck Rally of a dozen of South Florida's favorite cuisines, carnival rides, obstacle course, steel drum band and mocktails, caricature artists, face painting, airbrush tattoos, balloon animal artists, carnival games, inflatables, petting zoo, photo booths, and much more! Be sure to also check out our indoor climbing wall and outdoor activities.

 

Important Dates

 

Family Advice

Office of Emergency Management

Emergency Preparedness: The Time to Prepare is Now!

During orientation, we had many great conversations with new students, parents, and loved ones. Ensuring our campus community is prepared for emergencies is our top priority, and we need your help in preparing your student. Please verify that your student’s mobile number is up to date in CaneLink so they can receive emergency messages from the University. If you would like to opt in to receive these messages, you can find instructions to do so at prepare.miami.edu/enn/faqs.

As we approach the peak of hurricane season, we emphasize the idea that it takes more energy to worry about a hurricane than it does to prepare for one. The most important step that needs to be completed is establishing a hurricane evacuation plan for your student. Students living on campus will be directed to self-evacuate if a category 3 or greater storm is forecast to impact Miami. Students living off campus should also find out if they live in an evacuation zone.

Evacuation zones can be found at floridadisaster.org/knowyourzone. Taking a few minutes to determine options for where your student will go if forced to evacuate will allow you to quickly enact that plan if necessary.

A virtual Hurricane Preparedness Training specific for parents of residential and non-residential students will be offered on Wednesday, September 11, via Zoom. The training will review facts and features of hurricanes, the University’s hurricane plan, and steps your student should take to be prepared for hurricanes.

Anyone is welcome to attend and can register here. Additional training sessions are listed at events.miami.edu/OEM.

The University of Miami community is resilient, but resiliency is only possible through preparation. Thank you for working with us to guarantee that your student has a plan in place for what are very rare but potentially impactful events.

 

Academic Support

Office of Auxiliary Services

'Canes Course Pack

Starting this fall, University of Miami undergraduate students taking between one and 20 credits are automatically enrolled in the 'Canes Course Pack upon course registration. This program provides required class materials for a flat fee, available in digital format, or in physical format when necessary. The 'Canes Course Pack offers immediate access to course materials, ensuring up to 60 percent savings through negotiated publisher discounts. This contributes to increased student success and preparedness. By making materials available on the first day of class, the program reduces stress and offers flexibility for students to participate or opt out, avoiding long lines and heavy textbooks with a digital-first approach. Students who do not wish to participate in 'Canes Course Pack can opt out each semester on or before the last day to drop a course without receiving a “W” for the term. The opt-out deadline for Fall 2024 is Wednesday, September 4. For more information about the 'Canes Course Pack, please visit miami.edu/canescoursepack.

Auxiliary Services | Contact: aux@miami.edu

 

Health & Wellness

Division of Student Affairs

Along with the gorgeous weather here in Miami, comes the risk of heat injury. Encourage your student to make exercise a daily habit and reduce their risk. Students may use the sauna at the Herbert Wellness Center, which is shown to improve the body’s thermoregulation.

We offer many fitness classes and programs to help with physical health and stress reduction, while building self-esteem and confidence, like our brand-new Brazilian jiu-jitsu program, where students will learn self-defense techniques, how to effectively escape from challenging positions, and much more.

With all the beautiful water surrounding us here in Miami, it’s important to feel safe and confident when swimming. For those college students who aren’t entirely comfortable in the water, we offer adult swim lessons. We also have a deep water clinic each semester to increase confidence in deep water and improve safety.

We have brand new Ballet classes starting up, as well as Pilates reformer, tennis, and tai chi classes. Have fun while reducing stress and getting healthier! There is something for everyone here at the Wellness Center!

 

From Dr. Whitely's Desk

Senior Vice President for Student Affairs and Alumni Engagement

A Note from the VPSA

It’s great to be a Miami Hurricane! We are excited to welcome our new students and our returning students. There is much excitement on campus as the semester gets started. In a few short days, we will welcome some of you for Family Weekend, highlighted with the Miami Hurricane football game against the Ball State Cardinals. There are a variety of events, including model classes and interest sessions to help you get a further taste of the resources and experiences your student gets to take advantage of. If your family is able to attend, I encourage you to stop by the Hurricane Pep Rally on Friday, September 13 at 5:30 p.m.

Additionally, students who plan to attend the Miami Hurricane season opener can claim their tickets through the UBus. Tickets will be sent to their UM email. At the stadium, we host a FanZone activity where students can grab food, water, and get out of the Florida sun. Students should stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and make responsible choices while cheering on the Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium.

Many of our students have hit the ground running in the classroom. This is the perfect time for intentional reflection on the cadence of the semester and planning ahead for resources like tutoring with the Camner Center for Academic Resources. We are always here to support and have a variety of well-being resources for them. If you or your family ever need something, do not hesitate to reach out.


Dr. Patricia A. Whitely began her service as Senior Vice President for Student Affairs in 1997 and is an adjunct faculty member in the School of Education and Human Development. Dr. Whitely is responsible for oversight of residential life, leadership development, diversity and inclusion initiatives, service learning, orientation, student organizations, student activities, student facilities, student counseling, and student health centers, Greek life, the Dean of Students Office, and the Camner Center for Academic Resources.

 

Student Voice

Department of Orientation and Commuter Student Involvement

Welcome Home

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year, 'Canes! As new and returning students arrive at this campus for the fall semester, I am grateful for the rich history and traditions of this University that provide special and unforgettable opportunities to the members of its community.

I am reminded about the power and love of the 'Cane community every day through my familial and campus experiences. My parents—who immigrated from Cuba in pursuit of greater opportunities and freedoms in America—are both proud alumni of the College of Engineering. Their academic stories and achievements have served as the foundation for the passion I have for our school. Furthermore, the cultural values and lessons they have taught me have encouraged me to give back to others and support fellow 'Canes with empathy, pride, and love.

The potential to seek opportunities and cultivate an unforgettable life experience as a Miami Hurricane is endless. My cultural upbringing, academic experiences, and campus involvements make me thankful every day for our alma mater. From the strong academic programs at our University to our treasured spirit and traditions, and from our energetic social events to our electric sports games, there is magic to be made for everyone on campus.

May your new journeys at this beautiful school be unforgettable and exceptional, and wishing all our new 'Canes a successful and memorable semester!


Andres Hernandez is a rising senior majoring in neuroscience in the pre-med track. He is a commuter student from Miami, FL. On campus he serves as a Senior Commuter Assistant, Co-Vice President of Nu Rho Psi, Health and Wellness Liaison of Student Government’s Campus Liaison Council, and as an undergraduate neuroscience researcher.

 

A Note From The UMAA

University of Miami Alumni Association

On behalf of the University of Miami Alumni Association, and the more than 204,000 living alumni in our global 'Canes network, welcome to the University of Miami!

As we begin an especially exciting year at the University of Miami, one in which we will celebrate our centennial, the UM Alumni Association is here to support families and students throughout your UM journey. We’re here to offer assistance, provide opportunities for networking, and foster a sense of community that includes all ’Canes. 

Throughout your experience at the U, I encourage you to connect with alumni leaders and join a local 'Canes community. We have 40 'Canes Communities throughout the country for you to plug into from your “backyard.” Families are always welcome to attend events to connect with other families and alumni. 

In addition, the Miami 'Canes Community is a great way for your students to get involved locally. It is never too early for them to begin making alumni connections. 

We hope that you will join us on campus for these exciting upcoming events:

Go 'Canes!


Maribel Wadsworth, B.S.C. ’93
President, UM Alumni Association

 

Butler Center for Service and Leadership

'Canes Vote Network

The presidential election will be held on Nov. 5, 2024. The University of Miami prides itself on being designated by NASPA as a Voter Friendly Campus. The Butler Center for Service and Leadership oversees ‘Get Out the Vote,’ a student-led organization that provides year-round services and initiatives to promote non-partisan voter engagement and education. The last day to register to vote is on Monday, October 7. If your student is passionate about getting out to vote and would like to join the University of Miami Get Out The Vote (GOTV), they can apply through this link.

Follow Get Out the Vote on Instagram: @umgotv
For more information email: vote@miami.edu

 

CaneLink Proxy Access

'Canes Central

Delegate/Proxy Set-Up and Understanding FERPA

CaneLink Access for Families - While enrolled in high school, legal guardians had access to all educational records of their student. However, once a student enrolls in a post-secondary institution like the University of Miami, all rights revert to the student only.

Proxy Access - At the University of Miami, only students will have access to their academic records now that classes have begun, unless the student assigns proxy access to others.  Now is the perfect time for students to confirm proxy access, and for proxies to confirm if they completed all steps to finalize proxy set-up. You can contact ’Canes Central for more information or for assistance on authorizing a proxy/delegate.

 

RESOURCE GUIDE FOR FAMILIES

Produced by Orientation and Commuter Student Involvement, the Family Resource Guide is designed specifically for families of current undergraduate students and includes a variety of resources for academics, student life, campus safety, and other critical resources.

 

Family Communications

Fall 2024 Commencement - If your student graduates in December 2024, you are encouraged to join the Commencement listserv. This will allow you to receive information sent to graduates, including deadlines and the most up-to-date information for Commencement.

 

HELPFUL HOW-TO GUIDES

Proxy Account Guide


How to Pay Your Bill


How students make an appointment with Student Health Service


How students make an appointment with the Counseling Center


 

UNIVERSITY NEWS

Admissions and Enrollment

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Arts and Humanities

Conductor found life-shaping values and opportunities at the Frost School

Cristian Măcelaru, an internationally acclaimed conductor who's just been named music director of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, laid the foundation for his career at the Frost School of Music.

Faculty and Staff

Center for Latino Health Research Opportunities Awarded Major NIH Center Grant

“CLaRO” will fund pilot studies to help prepare a new generation of researchers dedicated to decreasing health disparities in South Florida’s Latino communities.

Grants and Funding

Social Justice Prize honors two exceptional projects

This prize funds innovative projects that address social and environmental justice through the lens of architecture.

Health and Medicine

Audrey Harkness, Ph.D., assistant professor, University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, receives $3.8M NIH research grant

Study will identify, assess, and disseminate HIV prevention strategies used by community organizations in Florida and Puerto Rico to help end the HIV epidemic among Latino men who have sex with men.

People and Community

Celebrating excellence

The Stamps Scholarship Program recognizes exceptional students and rewards their hard work with life-changing opportunities.

Science and Technology

Hurricane hunters, the true storm chasers

A pilot’s initiative to track the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane that decimated the Florida Keys marked the beginning of the era of today’s legendary hurricane hunters.

 

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