Over 750 relatives of members of the class of 2004 are expected on campus for this year's annual Sophomore Family Weekend.
The festivities, which were planned and organized by the '04 Class Council with help from the Student Activities Office, officially kicked off last evening at Mount Moosilauke Ravine Lodge, where families had the opportunity to stay overnight and participate in various games and activities.
Because Class Council does not receive allocations from the College to plan the weekend, the events are funded by the allocations fees ($25 for adults, $15 for children) that visitors are required to pay.
Family Weekend Co-Chair Brad Bate '04 said this weekend will provide "a good opportunity to see another aspect of Dartmouth life."
Bate acknowledged that this year's schedule is less structured than the roster of events offered during Freshman Family Weekend. Bate said that last year "we tried to plan events to help people get acquainted with all the facets of Dartmouth."
In contrast, he noted that this year's Family Weekend "goes along with the nature of Sophomore Summer. It's more relaxed."
Nonetheless, a wide range of events is planned throughout the weekend, which will culminate with a brunch at the Dartmouth Outing Club House on Occum Pond.
Today's activities will kick off this afternoon at 2:30 p.m. when sophomores will lead groups on a behind the scenes tour of Dartmouth. According to '04 Class Council President John Kupiec, the tour will offer family members an opportunity to check out places "you wouldn't see on an admissions tour."
Also in the afternoon, Cuban music group Los Farikes will hold a jam session. The band will return tomorrow at 3:00 p.m. to perform at the BEMA.
Several events are planned for this evening including a hypnotist at Spaulding Auditorium and a dessert and jazz social at the Top of the Hop that will feature the music of James Wrubel '04. According to Bate, the social will "provide an opportunity for parents and students to mingle."
You are advised, however, to keep crazy Uncle Larry away from Poison Ivy, which will house Family Weekend karaoke night from 9:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.
A pancake paddle along the Connecticut River, leaving from Ledyard Canoe House, will be offered for early risers on Saturday beginning at 7:30 a.m.
Back on land, College President James Wright will hold a reception on his lawn, while individuals will have the opportunity to participate in various athletic activities, including tennis, volleyball and the Dartmouth favorite, "capture the watermelon" later in the afternoon.
A showcase of Dartmouth student performances in Collis Commonground will highlight tomorrow evening's schedule, which also includes a slide show presentation from the Dartmouth Outing Club.
According to Kupiec, because Sophomore Family Weekend is less structured than freshman year's event, students "will have the opportunity to show their family things that they like to do."
