
2024 Bring Your Child to Work Day activity at the Greenhouse on the George H. Cook campus. Photo: Lori Nardoza, OPOC.
On April 24, the George H. Cook Campus will be buzzing with activity as the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (SEBS) hosts the third annual “Bring Your Child to Work Day.” Inaugurated in 2023, this special event seeks to build stronger connections among faculty and staff and will again feature a variety of fun and educational activities designed for all ages.

Laura Mitchell and daughter Adriana at the 2024 Bring Your Child to Work Day on SEBS. Photo: Lori Nardoza, OPOC.
Laura Mitchell, administrative coordinator in the Office of Development and Alumni Engagement, had pleasure of bringing her 9-year-old daughter, Adriana, to “Bring Your Child to Work Day” last year. A Rutgers employee for eight years, Mitchell sees tremendous value in the event.
“It’s a meaningful way for my child to see the kind of work I do, while also giving her a glimpse into the vibrant, inspiring environment that makes our campus so special. We’re absolutely planning to participate again this year,” said Mitchell.
“One of our favorite stops was the greenhouse tour where she was fascinated by all the plants. And of course, the fan favorite was the ice cream demonstration at Food Science, followed by enjoying our treats on the lawn at the Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health. It was such a fun and memorable day for both of us,” added Mitchell.
Renee Haggwood, assistant director and supervisor, Facility and Capital Planning, brought her son, Austin, to work last year.

Renee Haggwood and son, Austin, enjoy the activities on the Cook Campus during the 2024 Bring Your Child to Work Day. Photo: Courtesy of Renee Haggwood.
“It was a fantastic opportunity for us to bond on campus and for Austin to see firsthand what I do at SEBS. He was fascinated by the greenhouses and learning all about science in ice cream manufacturing! We even got to participate in creative mother and son activities. Watching his eyes light up with curiosity and excitement was truly heartwarming. We both enjoyed the experience and look forward to this year’s “Bring Your Child to Work Day” festivities,” said Haggwood.
In addition to all the engaging activities planned by departments and units across SEBS, a first-time screening of the movie, Brother Bear, will follow the popular the Ice Cream Demonstration by the Department of Food Science.
A sample of the activities offered this year by departments and units across SEBS promises a memorable day for parents and children alike on the George H. Cook campus. Registration closes on April 16.
See a photo gallery of the 2024 “Bring Your Child to Work Day” event below.
“Power Up with Protein: Nutritious & Delicious No-Bake Chocolate Truffle Fun!
The Department of Nutritional Sciences hosts visitors in their brand-new, state-of-the-art Teaching Kitchen. Organizers have planned an engaging lesson on the role of protein in keeping our bodies strong and energized. After the lesson, kids can create their own delicious, no-bake chocolate truffles, proving that healthy eating can be fun and tasty!
Greenhouse Tours
Come explore the magic of plants! You’ll get to see all sorts of cool plants and flowers. Learn how they grow, what makes them special, and even how they water everything! It’s like stepping into a real-life garden adventure.

Distinguished Professor Donald Schaffner, chair of the Department of Food Science, engages the children and parents on one of the many activities during the 2024 Bring Your Child to Word Day. Photo: Courtesy of Renee Haggwood.
Drawing the Land Around Us
Ready to be an artist? Meet outside Blake Hall and get your creative juices flowing with Alexis, our awesome Landscape Architect. She’ll help you draw pictures of the pond and teach you how landscape architects design the land to make places look super cool. Who knows, you might just create a masterpiece!
4-H Lawn Games
Time to play some fun outdoor games with our 4-H team! Join in for a variety of lawn games. It’s all about fun, teamwork, and getting a little silly in the sunshine!
Equine Science Center Tours
Giddy up and get ready for an exciting adventure at the Equine Science Center! You’ll meet some friendly horses and learn all about how we take care of them. From brushing to feeding, you’ll get a sneak peek into the life of these amazing animals and see what it takes to keep them happy and healthy.
Dean’s Treasure Hunt
Get ready for a fun-filled adventure with the Dean’s Treasure Hunt! You’ll follow clues around campus, solving puzzles and discovering hidden treasures along the way. It’s like a giant game of hide and seek, and the best part is—you get to be the detective! Work together with your team to uncover the secrets and maybe even win a prize!