Ohio Northern University kicks off the 2013-14 academic year with the traditional move-in day for incoming freshmen and new students on Thursday, Aug. 22. Classes begin on Aug. 26.

When ONU’s residence halls open at 8 a.m. on Thursday, 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.

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.”

After move-in day on Thursday, a series of activities highlight the following week. After moving in, freshmen will attend their first academic session at 2:15 p.m. and then 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 Saturday, Aug. 24, at 7 p.m. on the Tundra, and on Sunday, Aug. 25, Welcome Fest will be held in the ONU Field House beginning at 2 p.m.

In addition, the second annual Ada Civic Engagement Day (ACE), a program designed to engage incoming students with the community, will take place on Saturday, Aug. 24. 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.