Parent Newsletter

May 2024 

From the President

Philip G. Ryken President Wheaton College IL

Commencement 2024 was a grand occasion for “the COVID Class”—students who missed their high school graduations in 2020 due to the lockdown for the global pandemic.

Speaker Daniel Nayeri, who recently received the Newbery Honor Award for his book The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams, challenged our graduates and their guests not to be merely “nice” or “niche” but to draw “nigh” to the God who takes delight in his beloved children.

My daughter Kathryn was among the 500 graduates. When she said her very last goodbye to her closest friends and turned toward me, teary-eyed, I gave her a big hug and said, “It’s not the end; it’s only the beginning.”

This summer is an opportunity for our graduates, our returning students, our newest Wheaties, and for their parents to draw nigh to the God who loves our loved ones much more than we do. As you draw near to God over the coming months, don’t forget to keep Wheaton College near the top of your prayer list.

God bless you this summer!

In Christ’s service,

Philip Ryken
Philip Ryken
President 

Commencement 2024 photo on front lawn 825 x 300Bravo, Class of 2024!

The Wheaton College community is proud of the Class of 2024 and their families. They had a rough start due to COVID, but with God’s ever-present help, they finished beautifully. Way to go, students and parents!

Parents, you are invited to watch (or re-watch!) the full Baccalaureate and Undergraduate Commencement ceremonies.

Commencement 2024 processional 825 x 300Student and Faculty Academic Awards

Numerous students and faculty were given special recognition during our annual Honors Convocation Chapel and in the 2023-24 Honors Convocation Program.  These honors and awards recognize the achievements of students who have distinguished themselves academically, honor retiring faculty, and celebrate those who earned promotion or tenure or received faculty awards. Congratulations to all!

Commencement 2024 hugging friends 825 x 300Center for Vocation and Career

We were thrilled to celebrate the Class of 2024 this month as they wrapped up their time at Wheaton, and we are eager to continue celebrating with them as they take their first next steps after graduation! Our support for Wheaties does not stop after Commencement – alumni have full access to the Center for Vocation and Career for two years after they graduate.

This summer, we are offering alumni workshops tailored to recent grads, covering topics such as navigating the job search, budgeting, networking, and more. These virtual workshops will offer the Class of 2024 the chance to connect with other young alumni and provide practical tools, resources, and support from the CVC team. Returning students and alumni can also schedule one-on-one appointments with our career coaches throughout the summer.

If your student is doing an internship this summer, encourage them to reach out to our office about resources to maximize their summer experience. Our tailored internship curriculum includes tips on setting clear goals and developing mentorship opportunities. Students can also connect directly with one of our career coaches for guidance throughout their internship.

 HoneyRock (Kids sitting on rock) Finalize Your Summer Plans with HoneyRock!

Summer Camp at HoneyRock for 4th – 8th graders

Residential “Res” Camp Session 1 and Session 3 have spots available for students going into 4th-8th grade.

Session I: July 1– July 12

Session II: July 15 – July 26

Summer Camp at HoneyRock allows campers to discover their interests through activity/play-based learning, explore God’s Word through worship and Bible study, live in small groups and make friends in a welcoming community, and enjoy creation through outdoor adventures.

Give your child the opportunity to make memories and connections that will last a lifetime. Join us for summer camp at HoneyRock.

Register for Summer 2024 at HoneyRock while spots remain!

Important Dates for 2024-2025

Classes Begin

August 28, 2024

Homecoming Weekend

October 4-5, 2024

Fall Break

October 19-23, 2024

Family Weekend

November 1-2, 2024

Thanksgiving Break

November 27 – December 1, 2024

Christmas Break

December 20, 2024 – January 12, 2025

Classes Begin

January 13, 2025

Spring Break

March 8 – 16, 2025

How to Pray for Wheaton in the Month of May

  • For wisdom and discernment for graduates still figuring out their next steps
  • For students participating in internships, ministry trips, traveling overseas, working summer jobs, or taking summer classes
  • For incoming students preparing to attend Wheaton College in the fall
  • For a safe, restful, and reflective summer break for students, faculty, and staff

With thanks for your involvement and prayers, 

The Wheaton College Parent Engagement Team

Commencement 2024 photo on front lawn 825 x 300