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University Community
OHIO to host special events for new, returning students during Welcome Week 2025
All »¨¼¾´«Ã½ students are invited to celebrate the beginning of the new academic year during Welcome Week 2025.
A time-honored tradition at »¨¼¾´«Ã½, Welcome Week is filled with activities that cater to new and returning students and helps to set the stage for the fall semester.
Welcome Week 2025 will begin on Thursday, Aug. 21, and continue until Sunday, Aug. 31, providing students with fun opportunities to engage with campus life, make new friends and familiarize themselves with the resources available to support their academic and personal success.
This year’s activities will include the annual Class Photo, fireworks, food events all across campus, the Involvement Fair, special events at Baker University Center, Ping Recreation Center and Alden Library, and even a petting zoo.
OHIO’s regional campuses will also be hosting a wide range of Welcome Week events, and you can read more about the events at these websites:
As always, Welcome Week activities wouldn’t be possible without help from University volunteers. Faculty and staff who are interested in filling any of the essential roles can find more information here.
For more information, and a complete listing of this year’s events, see the Welcome Week website.
Thursday, Aug. 21
– 8-10 p.m. on the West Green. This OHIO tradition is the perfect way to unwind after move-in day and start your year with some Bobcat fun.
Friday, Aug. 22
– 5:30-7 p.m. at the Living Learning Center, 111 South Green Drive.
– 5:30-7 p.m. – This is a chance to connect with your floormates, get important updates, and share your voice. Check with your resident assistant for the location for your meeting.
– 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Peden Stadium. Join your classmates and the Marching 110 at Peden Stadium for the annual class photo.
- After the class photo is taken, the Baker Bash will be held in the Baker University Center. Explore all five floors of Baker packed with music, interactive activities, pancake art, caricature artists, crafts, free food, and more.
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Saturday, Aug. 23
– 1-3 p.m. at various locations around campus. New students for Fall 2025 are invited to meet with their colleges to start their academic experience at OHIO. .
- 5 p.m. at Commuter Lot 128. Stop by to mingle and grab a snack, and the group will head to Party at Ping as one big Welcome Week squad.
– 6-9 p.m. at the Ping Recreation Center. Join Well-Being and Recreation on the Ping Center’s front lawn for Welcome Week’s Party at Ping event.
Sunday, Aug. 24
– 1-1:45 p.m. Check with your resident assistant for your floor’s specific location.
- 2:30-3:30 p.m. at the Convocation Center. The event is open to all new students including commuters and graduate students.
– 3-6 p.m. on the College Green. With more than 300 student organizations in attendance, this is your chance to explore everything »¨¼¾´«Ã½ has to offer—from academic clubs and cultural organizations to service groups, sports, and special interests.
– 8-9 p.m. These meetings are a great opportunity to build community, ask questions, and learn about upcoming events and resources. Check with your resident assistant for your floor’s specific location.
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Monday, Aug. 25
– 12-2 p.m. at the Living Learning Center Amphitheater. Join fellow commuter students to chalk the walk with colorful art, messages and OHIO pride.
– 7-9 p.m.in the Baker University Center Ballroom. Known for his fast-paced, hilarious, and unforgettable shows, Dale K will take you on a mind-bending journey where volunteers become the stars.
Tuesday, Aug. 26
– 5-8 p.m. at South Beach on the South Green. Come meet and interact with a variety of adorable animals—goats, bunnies, alpacas, and more—as you take a break from the back-to-school hustle.
Wednesday, Aug. 27
– 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Join Counseling and Psychological Services during Welcome Week to plan your path to holistic well-being this semester, ask any questions about counseling or mental health, and color mandalas.
– 3-5 p.m. in Baker University Center 507. Celebrate the office's new facelift and new home in the Division of Student Affairs with ice cream, popcorn, and the popular Stuff-a-Squirrel.
Thursday, Aug. 28
– 7-10 p.m. in Alden Library. Come explore Camp Alden as we trek through all seven floors of Alden Library on a scavenger hunt and earn a prize; grill late-night s’mores on the patio and take part in fun activities.
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Friday, Aug. 29
– 8-10 p.m. at Paw Print Park on the South Green. Come out for an unforgettable evening featuring live music, free ice cream, games, giveaways and more.
Saturday, Aug. 30
– 5-8 p.m. in the front lawn of Bush Hall. The event will feature a big tent, inflatable games and free food right on the lawn.
Published
August 14, 2025