A Grinnell grad hugs a family member at commencement.

Parents and Families Leadership Council

The purpose of the Grinnell College Parents and Families Leadership Council (PFLC) is to engage with families of our students to cultivate support for the College and our commitment to providing a meaningful, individualized education in a diverse and socially aware community. Members participate in targeted development and outreach activities to raise awareness of and secure resources for the philanthropic priorities of Grinnell College.


The Seehorn family posed in front of Herrick Chapel on the campus of Grinnell College.

“There is nothing more gratifying than seeing your child happy and thriving.  At Grinnell, our daughter has been challenged, supported, and accepted, which has enabled her to dream bigger and achieve incredible goals.  For all of this, we are grateful and proud to support Grinnell College and serve on the PFLC.”

John and Melissa Seehorn P'25
Co-chairs of the Parents and Families Leadership Council


Member Responsibilities

  • Demonstrate philanthropic leadership with a minimum annual gift of $2,500 to Grinnell College
  • Attend and participate in meetings and conference calls as needed (The PFLC meets twice per year: once on campus during Family Weekend and and once virtually in the spring)
  • Commit to two or more listed volunteer opportunities on an annual basis; minimum time expectation is 4-5 hours/semester for outreach and events. Members are expected to cover the costs of their housing and travel expenses to and from Grinnell; the Office of Development and Alumni Relations will cover the costs of meals and program materials

Volunteer Opportunities

New Parent Welcome Communications

Welcome new families to Grinnell via phone and email outreach; minimum of 10 households contacted during both early decision and regular decision Admission cycles.

Pioneer Fund Outreach

Connect with 15–20 Grinnell families annually to invite their support of the Pioneer Fund or otherwise foster their engagement with Grinnell

Serve as Grinnell Family Ambassador

Host and/or attend at least two special Grinnell events, both regionally and on campus including, but not limited to, Admitted Student Receptions, Family Weekend, and Regional Receptions

Share Professional Networks and Expertise

Expand Grinnell’s student career opportunities network through partnerships with the Office of Careers, Life and Service, including internships, job shadowing, advising/mentoring and other career-related opportunities

Term Limits

Term is two years, renewable up to three terms by invitation of the Executive Council.

Membership is open to family members of both current students and graduates of Grinnell College.

Get Involved

Join other parents and family members in this distinctive partnership with Grinnell College. For more information, please contact Tina Popson ’97, associate director of parents and families program, at popsonti@grinnell.edu or 866-850-1846.