Washington University families are an important part of our community, and we offer many opportunities for parents and families to get involved, meet other parents and alumni, and learn more about WashU.

Student poses with parents at an event
Parents and students gathered for a reception during Parent and Family Weekend on the Danforth Campus.
Graduate taking a selfie with friends and family
A student celebrates with her family at the university’s 158th Commencement.

Opportunities to connect

Alumni and Parents Admission Program

The Alumni and Parents Admission Program (APAP) is composed of Washington University alumni and parents who assist with the undergraduate admissions process by helping the university recruit, interview (alumni only), enroll, and welcome talented students. Through APAP, alumni and parents meet and connect with one another in cities all over the world.


Regional Networks

There are dozens of regional alumni networks across the U.S. and around the globe. Find a network in your area and attend an event where you can meet alumni and parents with a common bond—Washington University! Some parents also volunteer to host events in their home for alumni, parents, and friends of WashU.


Professional Networks

Our professional networks are for Washington University alumni, parents, and friends who want to network and share expertise in their field. Parents are welcome to join the conversation, attend in-person or virtual events, or serve as speakers or panelists.


WashU CNX

WashU CNX is the university’s official online networking platform for alumni and current undergraduate and graduate students looking for career advice, networking and mentorship opportunities, or job postings. Parents are encouraged to join and share their experience and professional expertise with WashU students.


Washington University Center for Career Engagement

The Center for Career Engagement supports students in every stage of their career search. Parents can partner with the center by creating or promoting co-ops, internships, or full-time positions for WashU students within their own organizations and businesses. Center for Career Engagement staff members are available to talk with your human resources office and help create a customized recruiting plan. Contact the External Relations team at hiretalent@wustl.edu.


Washington University Parents Council

Established in 1974, the Parents Council is comprised of 140 families invited by the chancellor to serve a minimum of two years. Council members partner with the chancellor and senior leadership to create an engaged and supportive parent community.


William Greenleaf Eliot Society

Many parents join the Eliot Society by making a gift of $1,000 or more to support the university’s mission. You may designate your gift to the school your son or daughter attends or another program that is meaningful to your family, and the impact of your gift may be increased through the Family Eliot Society Challenge.

“Larissa and I greatly enjoyed being part of the WashU community both during our daughter’s four years there and beyond. WashU’s Defense, Aerospace, and National Security Network, Alumni and Parents Admission Program (APAP), and the Gephardt Center were fantastic and gave Larissa and I so many opportunities to interact with so many wonderful representatives of WashU.”

Tim Fain, parent of Maggie Fain, AB ’19
Members of the Alumni and Parents Admission Program socialize with each other
Members of the Alumni and Parents Admission Program (APAP) attend a reception.