cheering at orientation

New Student and Family Programs

Welcome to Gonzaga University!

New Student and Family Programs (NSFP) is dedicated to assisting you in a successful transition into the Gonzaga University community. The Office is a one-stop shop in finding and connecting to resources on campus. Whether you are looking for assistance in academic tutoring, finding a flag football team or ways to serve the community, we will be able to get you on the right path. Through the rich experiences and supportive campus community, the First Year Experience Programs is a great resource for you.

We invite you to come visit our office in the Crosby Student Center, Room 100 & 110. Whether you are a freshman, international, transfer, veteran or returning adult, we make a commitment to you today to be the map you need for your first year at Gonzaga.

Mission Statement

New Student & Family Programs develops and implements services and programs to ensure new students and their family members are provided a holistic introduction to the university, connections with faculty, staff, and current students, and knowledge to support students’ development and success throughout their time at GU. We aim to transition students to a state of interdependence and families to a supportive guidance role.

Goals

  • Promote the success and development of students through education, programming, communication, and partnership with parents/families to achieve the overall goals of retention, persistence, student learning, and development.
  • Provide opportunities to transition safely into Gonzaga and Spokane communities and encourage ability to navigate and connect with the physical environment of the campus and identify campus and city resources
    • Cultivate a sense of belonging rooted in inclusion and equity for all students and their family members

  • Provide new students an integrated support system and promote connection with Gonzaga students, staff, and faculty for all participants

  • Offer information and opportunities for students and their families to explore Gonzaga’s liberal arts tradition and pursue academic excellence

  • New students and families will become acquainted with, and advocates for, Gonzaga’s mission and Jesuit values
  • Cultivate the values of service, social justice, and holistic well-being for all students

Commitment to Inclusion

New Student & Family Programs is committed to cultivating a community of inclusion and belonging for all students and families. We will create and uphold an environment that is welcoming, accessible, inclusive, equitable, and free from bias or harassment.

Values

Connection:  NSFP staff and student leaders will create opportunities for our new students and families to connect deeply with the Gonzaga communityWe will also work to make intentional connections with the local Spokane community and with each other as a cohesive team.

Caring:  NSFP staff and student leaders will conduct their work in a way that shows care and concern for each student and family member we encounter, as well as with each other.  We will support and give grace to our colleagues and partners and commit to ongoing personal and professional growth. We will work to create environments that build trust and kindness among all members.

Adaptability:  NSFP staff and student leaders will be willing to adapt to the changing needs of our students and their families as they navigate our programs and servicesWe will show openness to feedback in an effort to grow and improve our programs and services.  We will manage change with grace and open communication.

Holistic Development:  NSFP staff and student leaders will promote the holistic development and well-being of each of our students and of ourselvesWe will be intentional in creating programs and services that develop the whole person in the tradition of Cura Personalis.  We will hold each other accountable for our own well-being and growth.

NODA

New Student and Family Programs at Gonzaga University is an active member of NODA (The Association for Orientation, Transition, and Retention in Higher Education). NODA is the professional association for collegiate orientation, transition, and retention programming. NODA views orientation as an ongoing and multifaceted transition process which involves academic, intellectual, and personal development. NSFP and Gonzaga University are members of Region 1 of NODA. Please visit the NODA Website for more information about the association, statements of ethical standards, and careers in orientation, transition, and retention.

New Student and Family Programs

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502 E. Boone Ave
Spokane, WA 99258
Crosby Center, Suite 022