Take Daughters, Sons to Work Day
UD activities provide children understanding of careers, importance of education
8:51 a.m., May 9, 2011--On Thursday, April 28, 65 children of University of Delaware employees were given a real-world sense of the modern workplace and a behind-the-scenes look at campus during “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day.”
“We were delighted to give children an inside look at what their parents do every day,” said Jennifer (J.J.) Davis, vice president for finance and administration. “UD is a perfect platform to raise children’s awareness about the importance of education while exposing them to real-life business scenarios and potential career opportunities.”
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A team from the Office of Human Resources enlisted help from various academic and administrative units across campus to plan a series of activities designed to be light-hearted and fun, as well as educational and informative.
Kathy Wheatley from the Office of Communications and Marketing said that her children loved the experience. “Madison said she was going to go to the nursing program as soon as we left the building,” she said, adding that her son Jacob also told her that he couldn’t wait to tell his friends that he held a real police shield.
Some children were exposed to stock trading at the Exelon Trading Center and had access to an electronic account with a million “virtual” dollars to invest in Apple. Others had the opportunity to meet UD Athletic coaches and trainers. Activities also included tours of a video studio, art galleries, a construction trailer and various laboratories.
Donna West, assistant to the dean of students, also shared her enthusiasm. "My daughter Margot and I both enjoyed the activities. She’s now even more excited about coming to UD," she said.
Developed to be more than a career day, the program provides insight to girls and boys about what their parents do at work, helping build stronger bonds within the family, showcase the value of education, and guide children on how to turn their future visions into reality.
Photos by Kathy F. Atkinson, Evan Krape, Carrie Qualls and Stacy Weile