Ohio Northern University opens its doors to the 2012-13 academic year with the traditional move-in day for incoming freshmen and new students on Saturday, Aug. 18. Classes begin on Aug. 22.

When ONU’s residence halls open at 8 a.m. on Saturday, incoming and returning students can begin the process of moving in with the support of the campus community. More than 600 freshmen are expected to arrive on campus this school year.

“We’re pleased with the number and quality of our new students this fall,” said Lawrence Lesick, vice president of enrollment. “They’re coming to us from as near as Ada and from as far away as China – 25 states and seven foreign countries. We’re particularly excited at the interest we’re seeing from international students, with an increase in that population in our English language and bridging programs. They are helping to make ONU a more diverse and exciting university community.”

After move-in day on Saturday, a series of activities highlight the following week. After moving in, freshmen will be formally welcomed by ONU President Daniel DiBiasio at a convocation event beginning at 4 p.m. in the ONU Field House. The traditional Greekapalooza, the Greek social activity for new students, is scheduled for Sunday at 5 p.m. on the Tundra, and on Monday, Welcome Fest will be held in the ONU Field House beginning at 2 p.m.

The first Ada Civic Engagement Day (ACE), a new program designed to engage incoming students with the community, will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 20. A partnership with the village of Ada, ACE will provide opportunities for ONU’s first-year students to not only engage in the community but also contribute to the village’s beautification.

Adriane Thompson-Bradshaw, ONU vice president for student affairs, said, “Move-in day is a great tradition at the University, and our staff has been working diligently making preparations for the incoming freshmen. We have several great introductory activities for the students to prepare them for life at ONU and to make their transition to college life easier.”