Ohio Northern University celebrates its 40th annual Honors Day program on Saturday, April 28, from 8:15 a.m. until 5 p.m.

This year’s Honors Day continues the rich tradition of ONU’s colleges and departments recognizing students and faculty members for scholarly achievement and service to the University community. More than 40 undergraduate academic departments and honor societies will present awards and induct new members.

The Raabe College of Pharmacy will conduct its annual Professional Commitment Ceremony, during which third-year pharmacy students receive their white coats. This ceremony officially marks the transition from the student’s first three years of ONU pharmacy education to their final three professional years.

The T.J. Smull College of Engineering will mark the 41th anniversary of its engineering ring ceremony. This prestigious ceremony inducts students into the Order of the Engineer, a roster of U.S. engineers who have publicly accepted the “Obligation of an Engineer.” The Order was initiated in the United States in 1970 to foster a spirit of pride and responsibility in the engineering profession, to bridge the gap between training and experience, and to present the public with a visible symbol identifying the engineer.

In a prelude to commencement, an Honors Day Convocation, which includes ceremonial elements such as an academic procession, inspirational messages and celebratory music, begins at 11 a.m. in the University’s Sports Center.

Dr. Rich Meininger, associate dean of The James F. Dicke College of Business Administration, will be the featured speaker at the convocation. His topic will be “The Foundations of Change.” Stephen Grassle, a senior computer engineering major from Chesapeake, Va., will be the featured student speaker.

Following the convocation, a luncheon to honor students and their parents and faculty will be held at 12:15 p.m. in the Sports Center.