• Homecoming Weekend: Sept. 26-28, 2008

• Parents Weekend (fall): Nov. 7-9, 2008

• Dads Weekend: Jan. 23-25, 2009

• Sibs Weekend: Feb. 6-8, 2009

• Parents Weekend (winter): Feb. 20-22, 2009

• Moms Weekend: May 1-3, 2009

Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Anne Lombard knows family weekends are a special time on campus.

"Both parents and students look forward to our annual family weekends because they represent a special time on campus where bonding takes place and unforgettable memories are made," Lombard said. "Student Affairs takes great pride in hosting family weekends because of their great traditions and the vibrant atmosphere they create."

And with today's busy lifestyles, time spent with family and friends is the best sort of investment.

"From parents to siblings -- recreation time spent with family is often the most valued time in a person's life," Lombard said, "and that is what these weekends provide."

Homecoming falls earlier than usual this year, and Ohio University Alumni Association Director of Outreach and Engagement Cristie Gryszka believes the September timing offers some advantages.

"Homecoming is always a very exciting weekend, and this year's earlier date will allow our new students, faculty and staff an opportunity to witness the passion for the university that our alumni bring back with them," Gryszka said.

"Alumni particularly love seeing the Homecoming Parade and watching the Marching 110 perform, visiting their favorite places around town and seeing the changes to campus," she added. "Homecoming gives them a chance to feel like a student again, and seeing the excitement that comes with that makes it a great and wonderful experience for all of us."

Participation in family weekends is open to everyone. As the dates approach, event schedules and other details for Family Weekends and Homecoming are available on the Web.