Many families get deeply involved in their child’s K-12 education. But when their student enrolls in college, how can they make an impact on their college experience?  

Thousands of Blue Hen parents and families are navigating this journey and wondering how to support their student’s postsecondary success. Double Dels Ray and Marilyn Jacobsen know there’s a place for University of Delaware families through philanthropy and the Parent and Family Leadership Council (PFLC) where they serve as Junior National Chairs. Ray graduated in 1971 and Marilyn graduated in 1972. The PFLC allows parents and families to positively impact their student’s UD journey and provides awareness of further opportunities for engagement and financial support.

“The PFLC is designed to show the benefits of parents and families getting involved. UD values our input,” Ray said. “It’s a great way to share ideas to help students succeed and connect with other members, who become your friends. It’s important to know as much as you can about what your student is experiencing. I think I’m a better parent because I know what’s going on. You have some skin in the game.”

The PFLC is a community of UD parents and families from around the nation dedicated to maintaining opportunities for all Blue Hens and committed to elevating the philanthropic priorities of the Division of Student Life. The Council works together to increase parent and family involvement and provide vital dollars for the Parents Fund in support of the Division of Student Life while helping guide the work of the division that supports all Blue Hens. 

The Jacobsens joined the PFLC in September 2020 and began their tenure as junior national chairs in July 2022. Most recently, they hosted the New Student Send-Off for the Washington, D.C. area in July — a UD tradition to welcome first-year students and their families to the Blue Hen family. Their son, Hunter, is a student in the College of Engineering studying construction management.  

Ray said that their service on the PFLC is making a difference for Hunter and his fellow Blue Hens and hopes to motivate more parents, families and alumni to give back. Furthermore, their involvement allows them to see their philanthropy in action and feel more connected to the UD community.

“Anything that you can contribute will help your student,” Ray said. “It will contribute to the experience they have on campus and the resources that the University has available. It’s a three-way benefit to UD, the parent and the student. It’s an investment. Parents and families are more likely to take advantage of all UD has to offer, including campus activities, events or continuing studies.”

With more than 25 years of loyal giving, the Jacobsens have made an incredible impact on many areas at UD beyond the Parents Fund, including the College of Arts and Sciences, Blue Hen Strong Fund and the creation of an endowed scholarship. They said that their engagement with the University, conversations with college deans and feedback from their son’s experience have given them a deeper insight to better align their giving with campus priorities. 

“We contribute to an area that we know is needed and that is important to us,” Ray said. “Since I was a student, UD has grown tenfold in size, and if we want the University to continue to thrive, everyone needs to think about contributing. You know that what you give directly benefits your student.”

In addition to generously devoting financial resources, Ray also said he sees other opportunities to give back. Ray serves on the President’s Leadership Council and is a board member of the HenLaw Society, a student organization for those pursuing a career in the legal field. A passionate advocate for mentorship programs at UD, Ray said connecting students with alumni is mutually beneficial and enables undergraduates to build a strong Blue Hen network. He encourages parents and families to consider contributing their time and expertise to help current Blue Hens.

“It’s enjoyable to pass on wisdom and experience to others,” Ray said. It’s very rewarding to help young adults advance and follow them throughout their careers. Mentors are able to hire mentees, establish business relationships or even make lifelong friends.”

Ray Jacobsen attests that his service and giving to UD enhances his experience both as an alumnus and parent, but most importantly, he has an absolute blast doing it.

“It’s fun. It’s fun seeing good things happening at the University, staying updated and meeting faculty and other parents and families,” he said.

To learn more about getting involved through the Parent and Family Leadership Council and supporting the Parents Fund, please reach out to Tracy Smith at smitht@udel.edu or 302-831-7453.