It was definitely tougher on those parents than on their children at graduation after 11 years. We feel more attached to JMU than our own universities. It's become sort of like our child. We don't want to cut the apron strings. The reason parents say they have such a hard time leaving JMU behind is because it's so much fun to serve on the Parents Council.
Many members say it's like being able to go to college without having to take any classes.
The council meets twice a year including Parents Weekend. In between, members hold regional picnics for incoming freshmen, help host Early Action admissions receptions, attend other official university events and, more generally, serve as advocates for JMU and provide a liaison and helping hand to other JMU parents. Parents Council members are not decision-makers, but advocates for the university. I trust the school to do a good job with my son, but it's nice to know more about what's going on there. I like being able to make a contribution.