Apr 23, 2025   |  FAMILIES

It’s hard to believe the semester is nearly over! As we prepare to celebrate our graduating students, I want to extend a heartfelt congratulations to you and your Bobcat. For those of you with a student walking across the stage next week, know that this moment is not a goodbye — once a Bobcat, forever a Bobcat. We encourage graduates to stay connected through the Bobcat Network, engage with fellow alumni, and consider giving back through programs like Bobcat Buddies.

For those with students wrapping up finals, now is the time for focus, balance and support. Encourage your student to take advantage all the academic resources to support their success. Remind them that it’s just as important to care for their mental health during this busy time. They can talk with a counselor or take some time to relax and recover.

Even after the semester ends, we are here for your student. We work closely with our Athens community partners to support students’ mental health and well-being. The resources to help students in crisis expand well beyond our campus, including the 988 crisis line, for 24/7 confidential, free help. 

I am forever grateful to get to work with all of your students. I hope you have a relaxing summer ahead! 

Kathy A Fahl, MSW
Associate Vice President & Dean of Students

Is your student staying in Athens after this semester ends? There is plenty to do, and summer is a great time to get involved in our community. 

Students can watch the Athens County Events Calendar- from live music at Nelsonville Music Festival to discovering birding at Birds in the Hills to getting your shopping done at the Athens Farmers Market each weekend, there is always something happening. Many of these events have volunteer opportunities for entry at a reduced cost too. 

Getting around is no problem over the summer- students can catch a ride on Athens Public Transit. Bobcats ride for free. 

Students should check on hours for resources like Cats' Cupboard, dining venues and University offices as they may have adjusted availability.

Ohio University Libraries is on a strategic planning journey to make sure they continue to meet the evolving needs of the OHIO community.

They are gathering feedback to ensure the process reflects everyone who uses the Libraries. Students can make their voice heard and share how they use all the library resources or what ideas they might have for the future of the libraries.

 →  Share the survey

Students can review draft changes to the Student Code of Conduct as part of the bi-annual review of the Code. These changes were made through the Review and Standards Committee, which reviews goals of educational discipline, effectiveness of disciplinary sanctions, advises on appointments of hearing and grievance boards, and recommends changes in the Code of Conduct and University Judicial Policies and Procedures. 

 →  Review the code through May 3

Students with a Bobcat Cash balance of $15 or more who are not returning next semester are eligible for a refund. Review the Bobcat Cash Account Balance and Refund Policy and the electronic refund form.

 →  Bobcat Cash info

Commencement takes place May 2 and 3 this spring. Find info about preparing for the ceremony, attending as a guest, livestreaming or purchasing a cap and gown if your student forgot to order online. 

 →  View Commencement info

Dynamics Acapella is a music group innovating the a cappella sound space with a unique approach that taps into other genres, maximizing creativity.

 →  Read a Q&A with the president

As finals begin and your student prepares to leave for summer, they might hesitate to say goodbye. But don't worry, Housing has an offer: return to campus early next fall at no cost with the Bobcat Move-In Crew! Your student can join other returning students to assist first-years moving in on August 21-22. They'll also get volunteer hours, a free t-shirt and snacks. Students can apply on their Housing Self-Service page starting June 1. 

 →  Bobcat Move-In Crew info

Utilize designated 30-minute loading zones and any dark green or purple parking lot during the established move out period. Updates to available lots and lot closures can be found on the Transportation & Parking Services website. Please expect increased traffic throughout the day on Friday, May 2 due to the graduate commencement ceremony as well as checkouts taking place on campus.

If your student will not be returning to OHIO next fall, but they are not graduating, they will need to contact housing@ohio.edu by May 1 to cancel the 2025-26 housing contract and request a refund of the $200 prepayment. Any notices received after May 1 will result in a forfeiture of the $200 prepayment. 

From yoga classes to Creative Coping Cafes to Breakfast at Midnight, there are plenty of events coming up to help your student feel their best for finals. Don't forget about activities throughout the week with Finals by Alden either, like 4-H Pet Pals and button making. 

 →  More ways to help your student THRiVE

April 23 | 2-3 p.m.

Join a hybrid panel featuring creators of artists’ books featured in the 2025 Museum Studies Certificate Program exhibition, Through a New Lens. Join on Teams or at the Kennedy Museum to view the books and the full exhibit. There will be a hands-on bookmaking activity after the panel, led by Hannah Moulen, MFA candidate in Printmaking. 

 →  Join the panel

April 24 | 2-4 p.m.

Ohio University will host an ice cream social on College Green for all students, faculty and staff to celebrate the end of the semester. The event will include appearances from the Marching 110 and caricature artists.

 →  More info

Need to recycle things before move out? Athens County Recycling Day is April 26 

Keep up with all the end-of-semester events
Calendar of University Events

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Share the Annual IT Survey