Impact Report for the Emory Parent Council | 2026
Emory strives to give each student the opportunity to make the college experience extraordinary. More than just a place for academic achievements, Emory helps students create a framework for success in all areas of life. That’s the purpose behind the Student Flourishing Initiative: to focus on development in four areas — professional pathways, purpose and meaning, community and well-being, and academic innovation.
The Emory Parent Council has been the perfect partner to bring this initiative to life. Through your gifts to the Student Flourishing Fund, you make student self-exploration a priority. You’ve supported students as they discover what they value and who they want to be.
“At Emory, we hold space for the whole person. Our goal is that every student leaves Emory not only with a stellar academic experience, but with a sense of belonging and purpose that will lead them into the world with confidence and courage.”
- Keiko Price Carter, Interim Dean and Associate Vice President, Campus Life, and Clyde Partin Sr. Director of Athletics
Creating Pathways and Purpose
In 2023, Emory launched two new centers that give students experiences to explore — and get more from — their time in college. The Emory College Pathways Center offers opportunities to broaden horizons through travel and internships. The Emory Purpose Project encourages students to map a different type of journey: one that explores their values and motivations.
The Pathways Center helps students plan for life after Emory by connecting them with competitive internships, hands-on research opportunities, graduate and professional schools, and postgraduate fellowships. It also introduces students to alumni mentors and coaches through networking events.
“The Emory Purpose Project seeks to make the entirety of the student experience transformational, from what students learn in the classroom to their extracurricular activities, so they leave Emory with both a sense of purpose and the tools they need to pursue it.”
- Ira Bedzow, Executive Director, Emory Purpose Project
The Emory Purpose Project is designed to make the search for personal purpose and meaning the foundation of the college experience. It offers opportunities for conversations that push boundaries and open new ways of seeing the world. Through small group and one-on-one interactions, students are encouraged to apply critical thinking and ethical action in their personal and professional journeys.
Noah Stifelman 27C, who is double majoring in economics and philosophy, politics, and law, canceled spring break plans with his fraternity brothers to participate in the Purpose Project’s Emory ADVANCE retreat. Along with a diverse group of students and administrators, he spent the week away from screens, hiking in the North Carolina mountains, and having meaningful personal conversations with others.
“Before, I was constantly trying to prove I was accomplished and belonged. This trip allowed me space to consider what brings me joy and what kind of life I would build if no one was watching.”
- Noah Stifelman 27C, Emory University Student
Building Community and Well-Being
The culture at Emory doesn’t happen by chance. Students are encouraged to build relationships and community from the moment they arrive on campus through pre-orientation programs and the Weeks of Welcome celebrations that kickoff each semester. Throughout the year, students are empowered and encouraged to strengthen existing connections and create new ones.
“Emory is making a bold commitment to create a culture of compassion and caring that helps students build success in their academic and personal lives. We give them resources and opportunities to balance their academic pursuits with programs and activities that build community, joy, and belonging.”
- Megan Brown, Executive Director,
Center for Student Well-Being
Inspiring Academic Innovation
Emory amps up the academic experience with hands-on learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. Faculty and students are encouraged to reimagine curricula by pairing classes with cutting-edge technologies and custom experiences. Students are given meaningful roles in research, performance, and service.
“At Emory, we are dedicated to cultivating a dynamic academic environment that champions rigorous inquiry, civic responsibility, and purposeful personal growth that empowers students to pursue lives of meaning and elevate their talents in service to the world.”
- Nichole Fazio, Senior Associate Dean, Office of Undergraduate Education
Thank you
You are the cornerstone of the Student Flourishing Initiative. Your commitment and investment in the Emory experience set each student on the road to success. We are grateful for your support.
“We took up the mantle to chair the Parent Council because we believe in Emory’s dedication to each student and we know students, including our son, benefit from it. Emory’s willingness to innovate and reimagine the college experience means our students are prepared to thrive as they move forward in their lives and careers.”
- Zach Brez and Jen Kangus P26, 2025–2026 Chairs, Emory Parent Council
