Purpose
Formed in 2019, the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Family Council is a volunteer advisory board of engaged and informed VCU family members who represent and serve VCU students, families and the University. The VCU Family Council guides VCU families toward increased support, understanding and enthusiasm for VCU and its mission.
The VCU Family Council:
- Provides advice and guidance on family programs and services to VCU
- Advocates for students and families as needed on various topics and initiatives
- Serves as a vehicle for communication between VCU families and VCU administrators
- Volunteers for and coordinates family-focused events and initiatives that benefit students and families
Members of the VCU Family Council provide guidance and direction on University efforts and have the ability to influence and shape policy and decision-making aimed at creating a better experience for students and families. Members have the opportunity to meet in person twice annually with university leaders to discuss important information about VCU and network with other VCU family members and meet throughout the remainder of the year virtually to conduct business and connect.
The VCU Family Council is governed by active family volunteers who connect regularly with one another, serve as ambassadors of VCU during major events, and are annual contributors to the VCU Family Fund. They are expected to provide feedback to the Office of Student Advocacy and VCU Families about various initiatives designed to engage and inform families and to communicate with families about important happenings at VCU that impact students and families. Any family member of a current VCU student is eligible to apply for membership.
Apply for the VCU Family Council
Applications for the VCU Family Council will be open June through August.
Submit your application today!
Membership Responsibilities
Council members must participate as follows:
- Two in-person meetings per year
- Video conference meetings
- On an ongoing basis through Cliq (online collaboration platform) channels
- Each council member serves on at least one project team which convenes at meetings and communicates on recorded Cliq video calls throughout the year.
- Volunteering at a minimum of two VCU family events per year (e.g. Family Orientation, Summer Send-offs, Family Day, monthly family events, etc.). This may include serving as a panelist, hosting an event, meeting with incoming families or helping at events. Council members are encouraged to participate in as many VCU family events as possible.
- Giving Requirement: Contribute annually to the VCU Family Fund at a level commensurate with their ability to give.
Give to support VCU students in crisis
The VCU Family Council is proud to support the VCU Family Fund which supports 4 priority areas for students: advocacy programs; emergency assistance; leadership programs; and the VCU Internship Funding Program.
Donate to the Family Fund