Good morning, Athens.

Union membership among Athens County employees has grown to over 3,800 due to new organizing efforts at Ohio University and local schools.

A faculty rally is planned for Wednesday, Sept. 9 on College Green as union leaders push for fair contracts.

Richland Avenue at Dairy Lane remains closed for the Athens Sewer Improvement Project as flooding delays completion until Sept.

10. Local businesses like Taco John’s report a 40% drop in customers (and request better city coordination) as move-in rush and detours disrupt traffic.

Ohio University welcomed its new Bobcats during Welcome Week with move-ins, campus tours and events including a class photo at Peden Stadium, Baker Bash at Baker University Center and Party at Ping for free food and fun.

The celebrations offered support and activities to help students start their campus journey.

Ohio University announced its August 2026 Faculty Newsmakers, recognizing Paul Shovlin, Eve Ng, Allyson Hallman-Thrasher, Ben Bates and Jim Strode for their expert commentary on topics including AI impact, media symbols, student learning, Senate polls + MLB promotions from outlets such as NBC News and The Associated Press.

High school and incoming college students created music videos and short films at Ohio University’s High School Media Workshop this summer, gaining hands-on media production experience and campus life insights from local musician Ben Maskiell and student counselors.

Ohio University's Pi Rho/Tau chapter of the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society was named an 'Honor Chapter' for the 2025-26 academic year for its outstanding events that engage students and the local community.

It marks the ninth consecutive year this recognition was given (only 12 chapters earned the honor nationwide).

Ohio University will honor Hon.

Yvette McGee Brown as 2026 Alumna of the Year at Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium on Oct. 9. Her decades of public service, including founding a child advocacy center at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, have reshaped justice for Ohio families.