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Bobcat Families,
We had another incredible turn out for Sibs Weekend this year! It was so great to see so many families and friends on campus. I'm especially impressed with our Bobcats' roller skating skills. If you attended any of the Sibs Weekend events this year, we would appreciate if you could take a moment to fill out this survey so we can make each Family Weekend better than the last.
February also brings Black History Month celebrations to our campus. Our OHIO community is called to study and explore the history of Black Americans and help cultivate a space where Black life can be sustained, protected and respected on OHIO's campus and beyond. Students can attend a gallery talk at the Kennedy Museum of Art, catch the Heroes in Color series at the Athena Cinema, and learn about code switching in part of the Prepare for the Fair series.
Read on for important updates about FAFSA timelines, the new Bobcat Hugs program and housing reminders. As always, reach out if there is anything I can do to support your student.
Kathy A Fahl, MSWDean of Students
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With the unpredictable weather during an Ohio winter, it can be hard to stay moving and energized. Encourage your student to seek out options like taking a group fitness class , exploring an accessible trail , getting involved in a student org like CHAARG , or signing up for an Outdoor Pursuits Adventure Trip .
More resources to help students THRIVE
Black History Month
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Throughout the month of February, Ohio University celebrates Black History Month , a time to recognize the important contributions of the Black community through American history and resilience in the face of discrimination.
The national theme for 2024 is “African Americans and the Arts,” recognizing the contributions that Black Americans have made to the visual and performing arts, music and more. Students can attend events, lectures and presentations throughout the month.
Learn more about Black History at OHIO
FAFSA extension and help
To lessen the impact of delays and technical problems that some students and their families have been experiencing with the FAFSA, OHIO has extended its first-priority date to at least March 1.
We still encourage you to submit the FAFSA soon, and we want to help by inviting students to take advantage of FAFSA completion opportunities that the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships is offering both in-person on February 18 and virtually. See FAFSA completion tips
Student job spotlight
Well-Being and Recreation is searching for a Communication Lead. If your student wants to expand their content editing skills, has web experience, and wants to work with multimedia content, tell them to apply for this role!
Student jobs are a great way to gain experience, get a head start on careers and connect with other Bobcats! Applications close February 29.
Recovery support
Recovery to inspire, share and empower (R.I.S.E) is Ohio University's collegiate recovery community. This group provides support and resources to students seeking recovery from alcohol and drug misuse or other addictive disorders, as well as students impacted by the addiction of a loved one or friend. Group meetings are held on Fridays from 3-4 p.m. in Baker University Center 313 when the University is open.
It's time to submit housing contracts
If students want to participate in the 2024-25 room selection process, they need to submit their contract and deposit no later than February 28 at 4 p.m. This is the same deadline for if they aren't required to live on campus next year, but want to live on campus for 2024-25. The Upperclass Student Contract will not be available after that date.
Find a roommate
Is your student unsure about who they might want to live with next year? They can update their ‘Personal Information’ section on their Housing Self-Service page to make finding a roommate a little easier. Students won’t be able to match with other students until students and their desired roommate(s) have completed the housing contract.
Send your student a Bobcat Hug
Send your Bobcat a “Hug” with a unique gift basket, bright bouquet of flowers or giant chocolate chip cookie made fresh at the Culinary Services Campus Bakery. You can also recognize your Bobcat’s important events with a Special Occasion Cake and personalized greeting card. Bakery orders include plates, napkins and forks. Gluten-free and vegan cake/cookie options are also available.
Bobcats can pick up their “Hugs” at Jefferson Marketplace on East Green, Nelson Court on South Green, or The District on West Green. For questions about an order, please contact Jefferson Marketplace at jeffmarket@ohio.edu or 740-597-5947.
Updated Jefferson Hall mailing address
Does your student live in Jefferson Hall on campus? The City of Athens recently updated the mailing address for this residence hall. The new address for Jefferson Hall is 101 E. Union Street, Athens, OH 45701.
All packages and mail should be addressed like the following example:
Full Name
101 E. Union StreetRoom #
Athens, OH 45701
Reach out to housing@ohio.edu if you have any questions.
Upcoming events
BobcaThon Dance Marathon
February 24 | 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
BobcaThon is hosting its 10th annual dance marathon at Ping Recreation Center to raise money for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio. There will be dancing, games, free food, prizes, raffles and more!
RSVP
Lazaroff Memorial Lecture
February 29 | 7:30-9 p.m.
The Ohio University History Department presents the 2024 Lazaroff Memorial Lecture titled "Roma, Jews, and the Holocaust," presented by Prof. Ari Joskowicz (Vanderbilt University) in the Baker University Theater. This event is free and open to the public.
More info
Housing Open House
March 3 | 5-7 p.m.
Have you ever wanted to see what other residence halls have to offer before room selection? Attend an open house viewing of available second-year residence halls. You'll also be entered to win a chance to select your room early in priority room selection!
Save the date
Quick links
Feeling under the weather? > Campus and Community Healthcare Resources
Campus food pantry, emergency microgrants, housing help and more > Basic Needs Support
Library of business professional and business casual clothes > Career Closet
Get event updates on Go OHIO > Opt in to the Athens Events channel