Historical Fall 2007 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
For some students, heading off to college and being completely on their own for the first time can be a intimidating. Thanks to the Home Plate program, some Washington University students are enjoying a little bit of home away from home. Home Plate, started by Risa Zwerling Wrighton, wife of Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton, aims to enhance students’ experiences by connecting them with host families from the University community and surrounding neighborhoods for home-cooked meals and outings around St. Louis. “Many students greatly enjoy their experience at the University,” Zwerling Wrighton said. “But I think this program has the potential to help them love it here.
It makes a big difference in softening the adjustment process for freshmen.” Currently there are 250 students placed with about 100 families. Washington University is seeking more families interested in hosting students.
According to Zwerling Wrighton, “This is a great way to engage in the life of the University and also help students learn about and gain respect for the neighborhoods that surround the University.
A special effort is made to match you with students who have similar interests as your family members.” Home Plate families are asked to host two to three home-based informal dinners over the course of the academic year for a small group of Washington University students.
After the first preset dinner date, students and families will schedule their own dinner plans.
All Home Plate host families and students are invited to join Chancellor and Mrs. Wrighton for the annual spring Home Plate reception at their historic University home, Harbison House.
This great opportunity enables Home Plate participants to enjoy the beautiful surroundings, great company – and maybe even a frame or two of bowling in the downstairs bowling alley. You can learn more about this program by visiting the Web site, homeplate.wustl.edu, emailing Risa Zwerling Wrighton at homeplate@wustl.edu, or calling (314) 935-5040.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, Fall 2007.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times2007_09.pdf, printed page(s) 7; PDF page(s) 7.
