Welcome Week events planned for new and returning students

Ohio University is preparing for an activity-filled fall semester that will kick off with Welcome Week, a time of celebration and transition for new and returning students. As OHIO’s newest Bobcats arrive, move in, and get to know the campus and University, all Bobcats are invited to participate in Welcome Week activities starting on Aug. 18.  

Welcome Week activities will start with students moving into their residence halls Thursday, Aug. 18, through Saturday, Aug. 20. Performances and activities will include Party at Ping, South Beach Bash, a petting zoo, the comedy of Luke Null, an alumnus of Ohio University and Saturday Night Live, and a drag show featuring Silky Nutmeg Ganache from RuPaul’s Drag Race.

On Saturday, Aug. 20, each college will host welcome sessions from 1 to 3 p.m. to provide an opportunity for students to meet others in their colleges, connect with faculty and staff, and learn more about their academic home. These sessions are required for all new first-year and transfer students. Locations will be added to the Calendar of University Events as they are confirmed.

OHIO President Hugh Sherman will host the annual President’s First-Year Convocation at the Convocation Center on Sunday, Aug. 21. After the President’s Convocation, the Marching 110 will lead first-year students up Richland Avenue to the College Green for the Involvement Fair. Students can also explore student organizations via Bobcat Connect.

Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Imants Jaunarajs looks forward to greeting students and their families as they arrive on campus and settle in during a fun-filled Welcome Week.

“In their first week here, we want each student to feel a connection with the campus and community,” Jaunarajs said. “We want students to know we care about them and their success and we want them to feel at home here knowing that they have the support and resources they need to thrive.”

Incoming students began their Bobcat experience in June during Bobcat Student Orientation. At orientation, students attended various sessions to introduce them to Ohio University and college life, made connections with other incoming students, and scheduled classes for the fall semester.

“We look forward to the energy and excitement new Bobcats bring to campus when they arrive and move in,” Director of Undergraduate Orientation Programs and Welcome Week co-chair Vincent Prior said. “These academic and social events will help students connect, establish a sense of place, and prepare for the coming year.”

For more Welcome Week information, including an arrival guide, move-in schedule, and event schedule, visit the Welcome Week webpage.