University of New Haven Staff Members Connect with Parents and Families Via Facebook Live

Rebecca Kitchell, Ed.D., assistant dean of students, and Greg Overend, executive director of student engagement, leadership, and orientation, are looking forward to welcoming the University's new and transfer students to the campus community for the fall 2019 semester.

The pair recently chatted with the parents in real time through a Facebook Live session. In the University of New Haven's private Facebook group for parents and family members, they answered questions about move-in day, getting students settled, and the activities that are planned as part of Welcome Week for the University's incoming students.

"We want to make sure we are setting them up for success," said Kitchell. "Students' attendance at those sessions is going to help them be the most successful first-year students they can be."

Sponsored by the Dean of Students Office and hosted by Kitchell, the Family Facebook Live Series enables students' family members to chat with Kitchell and ask questions.

During each of the monthly Facebook Live discussions, Kitchell has a guest join her – a faculty or staff member who answers questions with her. Overend joined her for the "Welcome Back" discussion, going over Charge In schedules for commuters and resident students, as well as everything that students and their families will need to know ahead of move-in day.

Overend and Kitchell wanted viewers to post questions and encouraged parents and families of returning students to share their own tips for move-in day in the comments section of the live video.

"We love hearing from you and answering your questions. This is a great place with great people, and your students are in great hands."Rebecca Kitchell

"There are a lot of emotions, but everything's going to be okay," said Overend. "Becca and I just celebrated our 17th year at the University, and we've been coordinating the opening of the academic year for all those years."

Kitchell encouraged families to get engaged by asking a series of trivia questions. Viewers who correctly answered questions had the chance to win University of New Haven swag, such as a Chargers hat or a University of New Haven water bottle.

As she wrapped up the live video, Kitchell told parents and family members where to find her on move-in day (outside Westside Hall) and reminded viewers of all of the resources and support available to ease the transition for the University's newest students and families.

"It's a seamless process if you work with us and let us know how we can help you," said Kitchell. "We love hearing from you and answering your questions. This is a great place with great people, and your students are in great hands."

Rebecca Kitchell's next Facebook Live chat on Wednesday, September 4, will feature a discussion with new University of New Haven Police Chief James Gilman.