Lindenwood University-Belleville launches ‘Adopt a Lindenwood Lynx’

The Student Development and Resource Center at Lindenwood University-Belleville offers a new program to assist new students as they acclimate to life in Belleville.

“Adopt a Lindenwood Lynx is a program that gives students an opportunity to connect with families in the local community,” said Peter Hofmann, assistant director of First Year and Transfer Programs. “This program allows students not only to connect with the local community but also to have a ‘family’ and support system away from home.”

Hofmann said that interested families must submit an application to participate in the program, and once accepted into the program, a family will be assigned two incoming Lindenwood students to get to know throughout the academic year.

“We’re looking for families who are interested in participating in a student’s life in a variety of ways. They can choose how they interact with the student, but some ideas include having students to their home for meals and holidays, attending sporting events with their students, or participating in other events in the local community,” said Hofmann. “Oftentimes we will see families provide students with cards and care packages throughout the semester, which are especially needed during times such as midterms and final exams.”

According to Hofmann, this is the first year the university is officially offering the program, because in years past, he’s noticed that students who are connected personally to a family or individuals throughout the local community are more successful in their college careers.

“We have so many first-generation students and international students who are far from home,” he said. “So, having a personal connection and being able to turn to someone who is close and familiar with the area is an invaluable asset for a young person, who in many cases is on their own for the first time in their life.”

For the 2018-2019 year, the university is looking to pair first-year students, those with fewer than 24 credit hours, and international students with families living in Belleville and the surrounding areas. A welcome barbeque will be held in August for families and students accepted in the program.

To access applications, visit http://www.lindenwood.edu/belleville/academics/support-resources/first-year-programs/adopt-a-lindenwood-lynx/. For more information, contact Hofmann at (618) 671-6212 or PHofmann@lindenwood.edu