A Welcoming Community
Ohio University is committed to promoting an atmosphere where understanding and acceptance of cultural and ethnic differences are ensured. A climate that represents and embraces different cultures enhances the University’s ability to provide all of its students with the experiences necessary to successfully compete and achieve in an increasingly diverse and complex society.
Diversity in all of its forms serves to enrich the distinct educational experience of OHIO students, faculty, and staff. There is no better way to learn about the world than to create an environment where students of diverse backgrounds—and indeed, students from all over the world—study, live, learn, and socialize together.
Ohio University is committed to equal opportunity for all people and is pledged to take direct and affirmative action to achieve that goal. In upholding its commitment, Ohio University will not accept racism, sexism, homophobia, bigotry, or other forms of violations of human rights. Such actions are inconsistent with, and detrimental to, the values that we hold essential as an institution of higher learning.
For more diversity and inclusion resources visit the Office of Diversity and Inclusion website .
A Global Community
Ohio University values the internationalization of its curriculum and its campus community and it encourages programs that strengthen multicultural awareness. The University welcomes students from around the world. This diverse academic environment with special events such as International Week enhances the learning experiences of all students and prepares OHIO graduates for success as global citizens. The University's Center for International Studies infuses global education into curricula on campus and abroad.
A Local Community
A hidden gem tucked away in the rolling hills of Southeastern Ohio, Ohio University is calling you home. Chartered in 1804 as the first land-grant university in the Northwest Territory, OHIO proudly boasts a rich history and as a top-notch institution of higher education with globally recognized educational programs and research efforts, we envision a bright future.
As we look ahead, we recognize that part of our greatness lies in the beautiful town of Athens, Ohio. In addition to Ohio University, Athens is home to a scenic bike path along the Hocking River, a lively arts scene, a thriving myriad of local businesses, and an unmatched dedication to everything local. Here, the comforts of a small town and the opportunities of big city living are one and the same.
The partnership between Athens and OHIO is one-of-a-kind. From our award-winning Innovation Center to our community outreach programs for local youth, OHIO is dedicated to collaborating with and giving back to our surrounding communities and new ideas are turning into actions every day. Won’t you join us?
- Athens County higher education, recreation, the arts, schools, and more
- Best places to grab a bite in Athens
- The cost of living in Athens County is lower than many other communities.
- Interactive map of Athens County : highlights dining, attractions, lodging, places of worship, shopping, professional services, and medical centers
- Family attractions
- Find a realtor or utility provider
A Community with a Legacy
In 1786, 11 men gathered at the Bunch of Grapes Tavern in Boston to propose development of the area north of the Ohio River and west of the Allegheny Mountains known then as the Ohio Country. Led by Manasseh Cutler and Rufus Putnam, the Ohio Company petitioned Congress to take action on the proposed settlement. The eventual outcome was the enactment of the Northwest Ordinance of 1787, which provided for settlement and government of the territory and stated that "…schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged."
In 1803, Ohio became a state and on February 18, 1804, the Ohio General Assembly passed an act establishing "The Ohio University." The University opened in 1808 with one building, three students, and one professor, Jacob Lindley. One of the first two graduates of the University, Thomas Ewing, later became a United States senator and distinguished himself as cabinet member or advisor to four presidents.
Twenty-four years after its founding, in 1828, Ohio University conferred an A.B. degree on John Newton Templeton, its first black graduate and only the third black man to graduate from a college in the United States. In 1873, Margaret Boyd received her B.A. degree and became the first woman to graduate from the University. Soon after, the institution graduated its first international alumnus, Saki Taro Murayama of Japan, in 1895.
You make the difference!
All of our staff and faculty and essential to carrying out our mission as an institution and we believe each one can make a difference in the lives of the students we serve, the local community we're a part of, and the global society we live in. We are an institution that believes that diversity is essential to both the student experience and to cultivating a great workplace. This is one reason why we put such an emphasis on seeking and hiring a diverse and talented workforce.
What Employees Say
"The Athens area is beautiful with rolling hills and the university grounds are absolutely gorgeous! The town and university blend together well, creating a small-town feeling with an abundance of knowledge and culture that are mostly found in larger cities. It’s a great place to raise a family and work. People are friendly, the local schools are exceptional, and once you have stepped into this hidden paradise in southeast Ohio, you will never want to leave!" - Ann, Campus Involvement Center
"I have lived and worked in Athens for the past 14 years and have really enjoyed it. I consider myself lucky to have the opportunity to work with so many great people, within my department and across campus." - Amy, Athletics
“Having grown up in a metropolitan area, I was pretty sure Athens wasn’t going to be a fit when we moved here nearly a decade ago. But the rolling hills and vibrant, close-knit community eventually won me over. While I love the small-town charm of Athens, living in close proximity to the University also affords many urban perks – including cultural events, Broadway shows, sports, concerts and educational opportunities – all within walking distance of my home! There’s never a dull moment and so many ways to engage. I feel very fortunate to be raising my children in such a safe, supportive and forward-thinking environment.” - Monica, Student Affairs
"I came to Ohio University as a capable professional and have been given multiple opportunities to grow as a leader. The challenge, trust, and support I have received have allowed be to create new approaches to my work and new initiatives for students. I have been fortunate to work with a range of campus partners and each interaction has focused on the best was to assist our students. Ohio University is truly the student-centered space that it has aspired to be as well as being a great place to work. This is a university that focuses on people first." - Joy, University College
"As an undergraduate student at OHIO, my career interests were shaped by the faculty and staff who exemplified passion for their work. Now, as an employee, I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to do the same. In the short time I’ve been here, I’ve been able to apply my passion for both human resources and inclusion work through various committees and campus initiatives with full support from campus leadership. I’ve also been granted the opportunity to develop my skills by participating in Women Leading OHIO (a leadership program for women early in their careers at OHIO), learning from formal mentorship, and forming a myriad of informal mentorship connections. This university is home to many amazing people who strive for excellence and continuous improvement in their research and their work – I can’t imagine being anywhere else!" - Cat, Human Resources
“My experience at OHIO has been quite satisfying. As a liberal arts university, I am inspired to engage with the students, faculty, and the community in a variety of creative and scholarly ways through my teaching, research, and service. What makes OHIO great is its focus on transformative learning, which challenges us to strive for excellence as educators, and nurtures our students to be well rounded and productive citizens of the future.” - Travis , College of Fine Arts