Seth Spencer, director of development and major gifts at Florida Polytechnic University, talks with Tiffani Manrodt, a member of the University’s Parent Network during its Parent Network Social in May.
When students begin pursuing their rigorous STEM degrees at Florida Polytechnic University, their parental support doesn’t end with care packages and treats sent from home.
The University has launched a new Parent Network that allows families to financially contribute to enhancing the student experience beyond tuition costs.
“Our goal was to create a program that reached out to families of Florida Poly students and alumni to get them engaged with their own Florida Poly story,” said Seth Spencer, the University’s director of development and major gifts. “The university experience is different for everyone – parents, students, etc. We're giving them an opportunity to embrace that story of their own and create an impact.”
The Parent Network began with a soft launch last spring through a “survival kit” campaign providing snacks to students during finals week. Spencer said the initiative raised nearly $15,000 for students.
“This fall we are launching our Parent Network grant for programs and students,” he said. “They can apply for funds outside what the University pays for. The network will raise funds to increase the impact University funds are having.”
While the network raises funds through donations, Spencer emphasized that involvement can take many forms. Parents can volunteer at events, participate in unique networking opportunities, or simply donate any amount to join for the year.
“There's no limit to what parents can do through the Parent Network in terms of the impact they can drive and create,” he said.
Parent Network member Jennifer Gerken, whose son, Sam Gerken, is a rising sophomore majoring in data science, got involved through the survival kit campaign last spring.
"I wanted to make sure that not only did Sam get something, but I wanted to be able to provide for other students as well,” Jennifer Gerken said. “It’s important that students get support both from home and from others, too. This is a great way to give back to other students."
Gerken said she is excited about the Parent Network’s potential to fund student organizations, competitions, and other activities that enhance the college experience.
“I think there’s a lot of talent on campus, and I think the funding parents are able to give above and beyond tuition can help other students meet their goals,” she said. “It helps them be able to pay for things such as entry fees or materials for their clubs, or even a place to stay if they’re in a club participating in a national or international competition.”
With about 250 parents making donations in the first year, the Parent Network is open to all families who want to get involved at any level.
“It’s really a ‘participate as much as you want’ kind of thing,” Spencer said. “You can come to the free events, make a donation and check out, or get fully engaged. That's the cool part – the flexibility.”
For more information, visit the Parent Network webpage or contact Seth Spencer.
Contact:
Lydia Guzmán
Director of Communications
863-874-8557
