Parent Council Serves as Resource for Students, Parents and Northwestern

The Parent Council at Northwestern College provides a unique support to NWC students. More than just a “grown up PTA,” the council is a group of parents of current students who pray for and act on behalf of the students and the college.

Council activities include being a welcome committee during new student orientation, volunteering at NWC’s booth at the Minnesota State Fair, staffing the Parent Council booth and volunteering at Homecoming, and helping plan Family Weekend.

The council also partners with the college in a variety of ways to provide resources for students and families; these activities may include making themselves available to students for informational interviews, helping promote parent-related events and opportunities or participating in fundraising efforts.

According to Jim Bender, director of Alumni & Parent Relations, “The Parent Council serves as a bridge between our office and all NWC parents. These volunteers play an important role in helping parents gain a meaningful connection to their students and to life at Northwestern College.”

Nancy Zugschwert, a parent of a junior, recently joined the council along with her husband, Jim. “I also work at the college and see daily what an amazing place this is,” Zugschwert commented. “By serving on the Parent Council my husband and I hope to play a role in helping Northwestern parents not only understand the value of their child’s college experience, but also to enhance the college journey for the whole family.”

About the Parent Council

Parent Council Mission

The Northwestern College Parent Council exists to provide leadership to parents and families of Northwestern College students by fostering continuing dialogue among parents, families and the college. Members of the Council serve as ambassadors of the school, promoting & supporting Northwestern and its mission.

Roles of the Council

• Provide advice and feedback to the college, from the perspective of parents of students, concerning matters of current interest to the college community.
• Serve as an advisory group, communicating with college staff and administration on ways to better serve students and their families.
• Serve as ambassadors on behalf of the college.
• Provide opportunities for social interaction between members of the college community.
• Serve as a resource to students in areas of mutual interest including careers, internships and community service opportunities.
• Assist in recruiting and marketing of Northwestern College by engaging with parents of prospective students and assisting with preview events as able.
• Support the college in prayer and giving according to your ability.

If you would like to serve as a volunteer on the Parent Council, e-mail the Parent Relations Office at parents@nwc.edu.