Inauguration Frequently Asked Questions

Let us help you plan an enjoyable visit to Ohio Wesleyan for the Inauguration of Matt vandenBerg! Search the list of FAQs to know what to expect at the Inauguration ceremony and related events.

BEFORE INAUGURATION

Why are university presidential inaugurations important?

An inauguration presents a time to invest leadership in its new president. This is a time created for the Ohio Wesleyan, Delaware, and Higher Education communities to become better acquainted with the goals and visions of the new president. An inauguration ceremony and its events are also a time to reflect on the institution's history and acknowledge all that has come before and all that will come in the future for Ohio Wesleyan. 

Do I need to register for the Inauguration Ceremony?

All those who plan to attend the Inauguration Ceremony, with the exception of students, must register for the event. The deadline to register is April 10. To RSVP, please visit the registration URL included in your invitation. If you have questions about registration or are unable to find your registration URL, please contact us at 740-368-3046 or inauguration@owu.edu, and we will assist you. 

Will classes be held on the day of the Inauguration Ceremony?

Classes will be canceled on Friday, April 19, from 10 a.m.-Noon to allow students and faculty the opportunity to attend the Inauguration Ceremony and following luncheon celebration. 

Which hotels/inns are recommended for guests?

The Inauguration Planning Committee has reserved a block of 20 rooms at the following location for our invited guests and delegates. This block is on a first-come, first-served basis. You will need to reserve the accommodations directly with the hotel using the link provided:

Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Polaris
8805 Orion Place
Columbus, OH 43240
614-854 0216.

We also recommend checking with one of the area hotels listed below or visit the Delaware County Visitors Bureau website for full information about local amenities.

Nationwide Conference Center
100 Green Meadows Dr S, Lewis Center, OH 43035
614-880-4300

Baymont by Wyndham Delaware
1720 Columbus Pike, Delaware, OH 43015
740-363-3510

Hilton Columbus/Polaris
8700 Lyra Dr, Columbus, OH 43240
614-885-1600

Residence Inn by Marriott in Columbus
8865 Lyra Dr, Columbus, OH 43240
614- 436-3955

How should guests get to campus from the airport?

The University is unable to provide airport shuttles for the Inauguration. Please visit our Area Transportation page to learn about area transportation options and access links to Columbus airport transportation.

What is Ohio weather like in April?

April weather in Ohio is difficult to predict. It can be cool and rainy, quite cold, or even warm and humid. We suggest keeping an eye on the weather prior to your visit so you can pack accordingly. 

INAUGURATION DAY

When and where is the Inauguration Installation Ceremony?

The Inauguration Installation Ceremony is Friday, April 19, 2024, in Gray Chapel inside University Hall. The ceremony will start at 10 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, and will be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person. 

Where should I park?

Complimentary parking for delegates and Inauguration Ceremony participants is available in any of the parking lots on campus. Please visit our virtual campus map and select the parking lot drop-down to view all available parking locations.

What is proper attire for Inauguration? 

If you are a delegate for the ceremony, you should wear your regalia attire. Following the ceremony, have something you feel comfortable wearing to the celebrations. As for students, faculty, and staff who will attend but not participate in the ceremony, wear your favorite outfit that showcases your pride of Ohio Wesleyan Red & Black. It will be a great day to be a Bishop!

What if I have accessibility needs?

Ohio Wesleyan University is committed to creating an accessible Inauguration experience for all who attend. OWU values inclusion and access for all participants and will do our best to provide reasonable accommodations for this event. When you register, please note any accommodations you might need, and we will be in touch with you with further information. You may also contact us at 740-368-3046 or inauguration@owu.edu. 

What if I have a question not answered in the FAQ?

For all additional questions, please contact us at 740-368-3046 or inauguration@owu.edu.