On October 23-25, 2026, Family Weekend returns to William Peace University, giving students and their families a chance to reconnect, enjoy signature Peace events, and make new memories on campus. The three-day event offers activities that welcome parents and families into the Peace community and provide valuable time with their students.
“The hope is that we are providing families with both structure and an opportunity for a new reason to visit their student,” Megan Hickey, student & family specialist, said. “They can choose what they would like to attend and really spend time with their students in a meaningful way.”
Events families can attend include home games for the Pacer women’s volleyball and soccer teams, tailgating before both games, pickup pickleball, and “An Evening with the Peace Community” kickoff event featuring alumni, board of trustees members, and President Jennifer Walsh. Family Weekend tickets cost $35 per family member and include merchandise like a Family Weekend T-shirt and access to all programming. Current students may attend at no cost. Students and families can also buy discounted tickets for the North Carolina State Fair’s closing day on Sunday, October 25; this is an additional cost beyond the Family Weekend ticket.
“The hope is that they see Peace in a more comprehensive way, especially our first-year families,” Hickey said. “There’s a lot of hustle and bustle when moving a student back to campus or attending new student and family orientation for the first time. This offers a better sense of the programming we provide throughout the academic year, along with chances to build community connections and experience downtown Raleigh.”
Another event available to all Family Weekend attendees is an optional, one-hour church service in Dinwiddie Chapel on Sunday morning. Hosted in partnership with Tabernacle Church and Peace Ministries, the service, led by William C. Bennet Chaplain Adrian Bullock, will invite families to build community together through communion and fellowship.
“It is my hope that, at the end of the service, there will be a sense of renewal, the energy to finish the semester strong, and the ability to navigate life’s harsh terrain,” Bullock said. Students who don’t attend the Family Weekend service can connect with Bullock on Thursdays from 12-5 p.m. in Belk Dining Hall or at his upcoming event, “Chill with the Chaplain,” on October 15.
Making Lasting Memories on Campus
Brooke Ayscue ’29 attended Family Weekend as a first-year student last fall. “I got to spend time with my family on campus and show them around, and I’m looking forward to doing it again this year,” she said.
While students like Ayscue look forward to welcoming their families to campus, University leadership in the Office of Student Involvement focuses on the overall experience and takes pride in making Family Weekend meaningful for students and families.
“Family Weekend allows students to share parts of their everyday experience that families may not otherwise get to see,” Vice President for Student Life Frank Rizzo said. “Most of all, I hope students and families leave the weekend feeling connected, welcomed, and proud to be part of Peace. I hope families feel that they have a better sense of their student’s experience and a deeper appreciation for the people and community surrounding them.”
Families interested in attending should create an account in the Pacer Family Portal if they don’t already have one. For questions and more information, contact the Office of Student Involvement.
