Welcome to Dominican University

To our Dominican University family,

Each year I witness parents and siblings, grandparents and other relatives dropping off college bound students for a campus overnight or at the beginning of a new year. I feel the mixed emotions — pride, hope, anxiety, and I am reminded once again of the confidence that you place in Dominican University for the education of your daughter or son. Thank you. 

How do I let go, and yet stay involved in the life and decisions of my college-age child?  That is the big question, yours, mine and ours — because the extent to which we, university and family, work together to support the development of your son or daughter makes all the difference.  While there is no one strategy for college success, good two-way communication is an essential foundation — along with good will.

The purpose of this Family Guide is to support and encourage good communication. The more you know about the university — our traditions, programs, services and academic calendar, the more comfortable you will be with the day-to-day experience of your daughter or son, even when she or he does not give you all the details.  The guide also provides names and phone numbers — just in case you need to call in reinforcements. 

Dominican is a distinctively relationship-centered university — which means that we are here for you as well as for your Dominican student.  There will be challenging moments as we navigate his or her increasing independence.  The college experience is less overwhelming, and much more exciting, if we work together.

Donna M. Carroll, President