The UPP’s first Parents’ Night Open House was held on December 29, 2008, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.  The event was held in the ground floor of the Science Building of the Alfaisal University campus, which currently houses the UPP.  Attending the event were 45 relatives of UPP students – mostly fathers, but also brothers and even one grandfather.

Fathers and other relatives of students had the opportunity to meet face to face with UPP faculty members, administrators, and staff members.  Dr. Alan Goodridge, Provost and Acting President of Alfaisal University, and other University administrators were present to talk with fathers.  The primary purpose of the Open House was to allow students’ fathers to get to know their sons’ teachers, inquire about their academic performance, and see samples of the kind of materials and equipment used in classes.

Several science experiments were set up to demonstrate what students learn in classes of physics, chemistry, and biology.  English faculty members displayed the wide range of textbooks and self-study materials available to students.  One English faculty member even displayed minerals and fossils that his students collected from the desert on a field trip which led to written reports.  Three student organizations were also represented at the event:  Art and Photography Club, Future Medical Doctors Association, and Student Association (student government).  The Student Association President and Vice President served as hosts, helping students’ fathers find their sons’ teachers among the large gathering of people.  Several campus tours were conducted to let fathers see the rooms and facilities.

Dr. John Aydelott, Director of the UPP, declared the event a success and stated that he was very pleased with the way everyone worked together as a team, with the participation of students, and with the overall organization of the event.