Each year, Orientation and Family Programs and Services recognizes one family with the Alan and Sally Merten Family of the Year Award. The Family of the Year Award recognizes the important role that families play in their student’s experience at Mason and allows us to celebrate the impact that families play in their student’s success.
The 2014 Family of the Year Award went to the Neiderhausen family. Raymond nominated his wife and three sons to receive the award. Below is an excerpt from Raymond’s essay about his family:
“No matter what, this family is my number one. They give me the time I need to study and take classes. They come to my club football games. We are a simple family with a simple goal to show our children that no matter how old you get, you can still follow your dreams. I am still following mine, at 36 years young, with this gorgeous family by my side.”
The Neiderhausen family was presented with the Family of the Year Award during the Family Weekend Welcome Dinner, which also included a variety of performances from student groups, and served as one of the official kickoffs to Family Weekend. Over 1,400 students and family members participated in this year’s events including historic tours, Mason Madness, Sunday Brunch, and much more.
We hope you can join us for next year’s Family Weekend from October 16-18, 2015! In the meantime, save the date for Siblings Weekend from April 18-19, 2015, and if you think your family has what it takes to be the 2015 Alan and Sally Merten Family of the Year, encourage your student to be on the lookout for the nomination information on masonfamily.gmu.edu next fall.
Kristen Wright
Graduate Assistant
Orientation and Family Programs and Services