»Parent Spring Summit
Parent Spring Summit is an annual event that brings Chapman University families and their students together for a weekend of connection, insight, and celebration. Highlights include the State of the University address, sessions to support student success, opportunities to connect with your student’s school or college, and time to engage with fellow Chapman families.
Save the date for Parent Spring Summit on February 27-28, 2026.
Registration opens January 7, 2026.
The 2026 schedule of events can be viewed below.
Friday, February 27, 2026
10 a.m.–4 p.m. | Check-in and Information Center
Check-in for Parent Spring Summit and stop by throughout the day with any questions
for our staff or volunteers.
Location: Chapman Plaza by Charles C. Chapman Statue
8 a.m.–7 p.m. | Explore the Hidden Treasures of Chapman University’s Leatherby Libraries – Open House
Event
Join us for an Open House at the Leatherby Libraries! Discover the Center for American
War Letters Archive and California's Gold Exhibit on the lower level, visit the Sala
and Aron Samueli Holocaust Memorial Library and the Frank Mt. Pleasant Library of
Special Collections & Archives on the fourth floor, or explore our captivating study
spaces, exhibitions, and displays.
Location: Leatherby Libraries
11 a.m.–12 p.m. | State of the University Address
Join President Matt Parlow as he provides updates on the incredible successes of the
past year along with the exciting things to come for Chapman University in the future.
Tickets required for this event.
Location: Musco Center for the Arts
12–1:30 p.m. | Family Lunch with Welcome Remarks by Jerry Price, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean
of Students + Resource & Program Fair
Following the State of the University, enjoy lunch with your student and hear from Dean Price about the student experience. Walk through the Resource and Program Fair to learn more about different departments, graduate programs, commencement, and volunteer
opportunities at the University.
Lunch is complimentary; registration is required for both parents and students.
Location: Attallah Piazza
1:45–4:20 p.m. | Chapman 101 Sessions
Short, informative sessions offering practical advice and insider knowledge for every
Chapman family. Choose one option from each time slot. Each time slot has three options available.
Did you know one in three Chapman students studies abroad? With hundreds of programs available each term across every academic discipline, the possibilities are endless. Join us to explore where your student can go, when they can travel, and how to make their global education experience a reality.
Offered: Session 1 (1:45–2:30 p.m.) and Session 3 (3:35 - 4:20 p.m.)
Student Health Center
Join us to learn about the comprehensive health services available to Chapman students through the Student Health Center. We'll cover how to access care on campus, navigate insurance requirements and coverage, and share information on valuable off-campus healthcare resources in the Orange County area.
Offered: Session 1 (1:45–2:30 p.m.)
Living, Learning, and Thriving: How RLFYE Supports Students After Their First Year
In this session, parents and families will learn how Residence Life and First Year Experience support students beyond their first year. We will explore how families can stay engaged as partners in theirstudent’sdevelopment while navigating housing processes, campus resources, and opportunities that foster belonging, resilience, and academic success for continuing students.
Offered: Session 1 (1:45–2:30 p.m.) and Session 2 (2:40–3:25 p.m.)
Supporting your Student’s Involvement at Chapman
Staff from the Department of Student Engagement will share more about life outside of the classroom and the many opportunities students have to get involved. Learn about how you can support your student in exploring their interests, connecting with peers, and making the most out of their Chapman experience!
Offered: Session 2 (2:40–3:25 p.m.)
From Campus to Career: Insights from Recent Alumni
Join us for an engaging conversation featuring recent alumni as they share their unique journeys after college. This event offers valuable insights into navigating life beyond graduation, building careers, and leveraging Chapman's alumni network. Gain inspiration and practical advice to help prepare your student for their own post-college adventure! Hosted by the Offices of Alumni
Offered: Session 2 (2:40–3:25 p.m.) and Session 3 (3:35–4:20 p.m.)
Undeclared/Exploratory Major
Join us for an informative session designed for families of Undeclared/Exploratory students, where you'll learn about the Undeclared Major experience and GUS 101 (Introduction to Chapman), the cornerstone course that guides students through Chapman's academic landscape and helps them explore various departments and potential majors. We'll also cover important deadlines, Canvas, and practical tips for academic success to help you support your student in discovering their path at Chapman.
Offered: Session 3 (3:35–4:20 p.m.)
3–5 p.m. | Schmid Research Open House
The Keck Center for Science and Engineering is home to 45 teaching and research labs. Ever wondered what goes
on inside them?Drop byto get a firsthand look at the research activity happening across Schmid College.
Featuring a Tesla coil, hoverboard, and hagfish slime — this event is open to all!
Location:Keck Center
4–5:30 p.m. | Fowler School of Engineering Mixer
Join the Fowler School of Engineering for the first day of the Parent Spring Summit weekend with our Fowler Engineering Social. The evening will
include engaging conversations for parents, families, and loved ones with our Interim
Dean, faculty, staff, and students. Grab a plate of hors d'oeuvres and learn about
the incredible achievements of our engineering students and gain valuable insights and resources to help support your student during their journey
at Chapman University.
Location:Tech Shop, Swenson Hall106
4–6 p.m. | Continuing the Journey: Dinner and Family Engagement at Chapman
Location: Argyros Forum 209 ABC
Enjoy a bite to eat in Old Towne Orange! Several local restaurants are offering exclusive Parent Spring Summit discounts when you show them the digital flyer or your participant nametag given at check-in.
Saturday, February 28, 2026
10 a.m.–3 p.m. | Check-in and Information Center
Check in for Parent Spring Summit and stop by throughout the day with any questions
for our staff or volunteers. When you arrive, come grab a scavenger hunt with instructions to play for a chance
to win prizes!
Location: Chapman Plaza by Charles C. Chapman Statue
10–11:30 a.m. | Mimosa Brunch by Region + Family of the Year Award
Enjoy brunch and mimosas (21+) while meeting other families from your area. The winner
will be recognized during this event. Brunch is complimentary; registration is required for both parents and students.
Location: Attallah Piazza
11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. | School of Communication Breakout Session
School of Communication students will discuss their internship experiences in amoderated panel with the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the panelists. Parents
are encouraged to bring their students to this session.
Location: TBD
11:45 a.m.–1:45 p.m. | College of Performing Arts Breakout Session
Join the College of Performing Arts for a welcome by Dean, Dr. Anne Hogan, an overview
of career support within the College of Performing Arts by Connor Bogenreif, Assistant
Director of Career Development and Alumni Engagement, followed by a Q+A panel with CoPA students.
Location: TBD
11:45 a.m.–1:15 p.m. | Schmid College of Science & TechnologyBreakout Session
Join us for a conversation with Interim Dean Chris Kim about the support available
to help your student achieve their goals in the sciences. Following Dean Kim's introduction,
he will host a senior student panel, where seasoned Schmidsters will share wisdom
from their own undergraduate experiences, including what resources your student should
be aware of and how they can set themselves up for success. Following the panel, enjoy
social time over hot coffee in the Keck Center.
Location: McCardle Steps, Keck Center
11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. | AI at Chapman
Join Provost Mike Ibba for a conversation about artificial intelligence and what it
means for your student. Hear from Rich Spilde, a leading privacy and data security
attorney, about how AI is reshaping the professional world, from law offices to boardrooms.
Then get your questions answered by Chapman faculty who are at the forefront of AI
innovation. Whether you're curious, concerned, or just want to stay informed, this
is your chance to hear multiple perspectives on the technology that's changing how
your student will learn and work.
1–2 p.m. | Attallah College of Educational Studies Breakout Session
Attallah College will be hosting a Q&A session and panel for parents to learn more
about the college’s Integrated Master’s programs with Associate Dean, Jillian Wood,
and students in the Integrated programs. Through these programs, students can start
taking graduate level classes as early as junior year of their undergraduate program.
Refreshments will be provided.
Location: TBD
1–1 p.m. | Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Breakout Session
Join us for a conversation with Dean Jennifer Keene and the Career Manager of Wilkinson
College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences to learn more about the undergraduate
experience and career resources available within Wilkinson to prepare your student
for life after Chapman.
Location: TBD
2:15–3:45 p.m. | Crean College of Health & Behavioral Sciences Breakout Session
Join us for an engaging exploration of Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences!
Our program will begin with a dialogue led by Associate Dean of Research Laura Glynn,
followed by an informative session with our career advisors and department chairs
from Psychology and Health Sciences. We'll conclude with exclusive tours of our state-of-the-art
anatomy lab and Human performance lab.
Location: Crean Hall 149
2:15–4:15 p.m. | Argyros College of Business & Economics Breakout Session
Building Strategic Thinkers: A Dean’s Perspective
Location: Beckman Hall 404
2:15–4:15 p.m. | Fowler School of Engineering Breakout Session
Engineering Resource Fair – From Academic to Career Success with Fowler School of
Engineering
Saturday will offer a first-hand experience of the resources and tools available to
your student through the Engineering Resource Fair! Meet with our Career Service Manager
and Program Director to ensure your students make the most of their Chapman journey.
Families are encouraged to take part in interactive workshops at our DCI Lab, where
you can experience the creative and technical skills our students are developing.
Faculty and staff will be available to answer your questions. This is a perfect opportunity
to dive into the student experience at Chapman Fowler School of Engineering.
Location: Ideation Zone, Swenson Hall, Keck Center N107 & N109
4:30–6:45 p.m. | Dodge College of Film & Media Arts Breakout Sessions
Location: Folino Theater, Marion Knott Studios
5:45–6:45 p.m. The Movies, The Moguls and Me
Location: Folino Theater, Marion Knott Studios
Enjoy a bite to eat in Old Towne Orange! Several local restaurants are offering exclusive Parent Spring Summit discounts when you show them the digital flyer or your participant nametag given at check-in.
Weekend FAQs
Can my student attend Parent Spring Summit with me?
Yes! Your student is welcome to join any session or event with you during the weekend.
If their schedule allows, we encourage you to invite them to attend with you. We ask
that all attendees, including your student, register to attend.
Check-in and Information Booth
Check-in will be at the Chapman Plaza by the Charles C. Chapman Statue on Friday, February 27 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and Saturday, February 28 from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Staff and volunteers will also be available to answer questions at this location.
Can I register on-site?
Due to pre-event logistics, those who have not registered by Friday, February 20 will
only be admitted to sessions if space permits.
What should I bring or wear?
Dress for the weekend is casual. Show your Panther Pride with Chapman apparel or your
favorite red, black or white clothes.
Where is Parent Spring Summit?
All events will be located in various areas on the Orange Campus.
Where should I park?
Register your vehicle for free parking.
Are any events available virtually?
No, all events are only available for those attending in person.
Where should I stay?
We recommend our sponsor, the Ayres Hotel. You can view additional local accommodations here.
Campus resources and places to visit: View our Guide to Explore Orange County and exclusive restaurant discounts.
Chapman University Agora Gift Shop will be open during Parent Spring Summit Weekend. Hours will be added when available.
Hilbert Museum of California Art
Location:167 N. Atchison Street - just west of the main campus, across from the Orange train
station. Free parking in lot in front of museum or in the city structure one block
east.
Hours of operation: Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Admission: Free
Questions?
For questions about the Parent Spring Summit ticketing site; contact:
Ticketing Services
(714) 997-6812
ticketing@chapman.edu
For General Inquiries:
Office of Parent and Family Engagement
(714) 997-6558
pantherfamily@chapman.edu