It must be April — there’s so much happening on campus! Before we dive into important updates, we’d like to ask for your input. The Bobcat Family Council is working to enhance resources and support for families, and your feedback is essential. Please consider completing this brief survey to share your thoughts.
As final exams approach, it's important to remind your students about the academic resources available to support their success, including the Academic Achievement Center and library resources. For families celebrating a soon-to-be graduate, please visit the Commencement website for essential information on ceremony schedules and preparations. This newsletter is packed with info to prepare for move out too.
We understand that the current climate in higher education may feel uncertain. Rest assured, our OHIO community is committed to supporting your students through these times. Encourage them to stay connected, utilize available resources, and reach out for assistance when needed. To stay informed, review the latest updates and FAQs from the President. Together, we can help them navigate these changes and achieve their goals.
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| Kathy A Fahl, MSW
Dean of Students
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Did you know that 80% of your items students might consider pitching can likely be donated? As your student prepares to move out, consider donating unwanted items to benefit the community and support sustainability. Each residence hall will have donation stations where they can drop off items such as carpets, small appliances, clothing, bedding, furniture, and non-perishable food. There are also drop off locations in off-campus areas as well as pick up options.
Is your student interested in volunteering to be a zero waste hero? Email recycle@ohio.edu.
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Stay protected: measles prevention tips |
While there are currently no measles cases at OHIO, cases are rising across the country, including in northeast Ohio. Measles is highly contagious, but the good news is that it’s preventable with vaccination.
Here’s what you need to know:
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The best protection against measles is the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella).
- If students are unsure about their vaccine status, they can check with their healthcare provider or local health department.
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Vaccines are available by appointment at many pharmacies (like CVS), through your healthcare provider, OhioHealth Campus Care, Athens City-County Health Department or your local health department.
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Learn more about measles and prevention from the CDC. Stay informed, stay healthy and help stop the spread!
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Does your student want to stay close to Athens while making a positive impact on the community? They can apply to COMCorps, an AmeriCorps program. In return for service, they'll receive life-changing experiences, a living allowance, and an education award that can be applied toward past or future educational expenses.
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This program was created to strengthen connections between students and alumni with similar academic and/or industry interests. The dinner at Latitude 39 is facilitated by a student ambassador and provides an opportunity for the alumni to share their experiences in a casual environment. The cost of meals is covered.
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Research and activism opportunity |
The Sociological Action Network student org is looking for undergraduate students who want to engage in research, mentorship and social justice initiatives.
This opportunity is virtual, and 20 students will be selected to participate.
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OHIO Micro Stores are now open on campus! They are perfect for grabbing a fresh meal or snack outside of dining venue hours. Fresh Take meals, Life is Sweet baked goods, drinks and other essentials are available on-demand from the Micro Stores.
Find them at spots like the University Airport and the Ping Center, with more locations to come!
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| Reminder of campus policies |
At OHIO, we’re committed to maintaining a campus where ideas can be shared openly and respectfully. Our Campus Freedom of Expression policy reinforces this commitment. It ensures that every member of our community has the right to express themselves and engage in thoughtful dialogue as part of their educational experience.
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As the semester ends, we understand that moving out can be stressful. Housing and Residence Life is partnering with Storage Scholars to make the process easier. Storage Scholars will provide packing materials before exams, offer safe in-room storage for belongings, and ensure secure, temperature-controlled storage for the summer. Packing boxes can be shipped anywhere in the U.S., and upon your student’s return, your items will be waiting in their new room, ready for the new semester.
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Closing Community Meetings will take place throughout the start of this month. The residence halls officially close at 8 p.m. on Friday, May 2. Review the closing checklist and other important information before your student leaves! If your student is traveling home over the next few weeks, it might be helpful to start bringing things back to make move out easier. The last day to have mail delivered to campus should be April 25.
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| Housing extension, May Break housing, summer school |
Any student needing to stay Friday night, May 2, due to a university affiliated reason can request a one-night extension. Any student needing to reside on campus after 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 3 through Friday, May 9, can request temporary accommodation at the rate of $30/night or $125/week. Students attending summer school will need to complete a Summer Student Contract and a May Break Housing contract (if needed) by May 3 at 4 p.m.
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Students should save Blackboard content soon |
Blackboard access ends in June 2026 as part of OHIO’s transition to Canvas. If students want to save course content, they'll need to do so soon. Saving content is self-guided. Check out Blackboard’s guidance on accessing content in my course for details. Note: that if students are unable to access a completed course in Blackboard, the instructor may have limited access.
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The Office of Health Promotion’s Bobcat Peer Educators invite students to OUr Minds Matter Week, a series of events dedicated to mental health awareness and well-being. From April 7-11, we’re creating space to de-stress, share our stories, practice gratitude, connect with campus resources, and support one another in prioritizing our mental wellness.
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| Students can sign their name in OHIO’s history |
We are hosting a special Beam Signing Celebration as we mark a major milestone in the construction of McDavis Hall! Students can stop by South Beach to sign a beam that will be permanently placed in the new building. Attendees can enjoy Stuff-a-Bobcat plush, yard games, a photo booth, live DJ music and more.
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| April 10 | 4-5:30 p.m.
April 12 | 2-3:30 p.m.
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Join the Cats' Cupboard at the 4th floor outside of Baker Center to start some seeds and take home vegetable plants. All materials provided; no registration required.
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212 Cutler Hall | Ohio University | Athens, OH 45701 US
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Visit www.ohio.edu/equity-civil-rights for Ohio University's Title IX Coordinator contact information and Notice of Non-Discrimination. ©2025 Ohio University. All rights reserved.
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