First day snowfall

Ohio University’s Athens campus opened the Spring 2024 semester with a fresh coat of snow on the grounds of one of America’s most beautiful colleges campuses. Classes kicked off on schedule with crews from campus facilities working hard to keep roads and sidewalks clear Monday evening into Tuesday morning, creating that memorable Athens scene of white snow, red brick and a splash of Cutler green in signage across campus.

Thanks to temperatures that have not climbed above freezing in several days, the pond at Emeriti park was almost completely frozen and covered with snow, and students donned their winter gear as they made their way to class.

Most OHIO alumni share memories of snowy winter days on campus. Archive photos over the years often capture the Alumni Gateway covered in snow, although photos prior to 1915 are missing the iconic structure.

Sledding down Jeff Hill, previously East Union Hill, has been a favorite snow day pastime, although this week’s snow fall did not produce enough to allow for sledding. In late November 1950, a snowstorm resulted in a University closure just as students returned from Thanksgiving break. Classes were cancelled for a week, although many students had already returned to campus. This collage of photos from the 1950 Yearbook captured students keeping themselves entertained.

Temperatures are not expected to rise above freezing in Athens until Monday, January 22, with a possibility of additional snow on Friday. Students are encouraged, as always, to watch for ice or other hazards, wear well-fitting warm clothing, and stay alert whether moving about on foot or in a vehicle.