- Where and when will the seminar be held?
The seminar will take place at Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio June 4-7, 2026 - When should I arrive, and when is the seminar over?
Seminar participants (“ambassadors”) may check in any time between 8:00 am-9:30 am on Thursday, June 4, 2026. The seminar will conclude at 3:00 pm on Sunday, June 7, 2026. You must be present for the entire seminar, including overnight. - Where should I go when I arrive?
Check-in information will be sent to students and families prior to the start of the seminar. HOBY volunteers in bright blue t-shirts will help guide you to the parking lot, greet you, and check you in. - What kind of program is planned?
During your HOBY Leadership Seminar, many dynamic leaders—all volunteers from the fields of business, education, government, and other professions—will address aspects of our changing world and the challenges future leaders will confront. The program will not promote any specific political party, religion, or way of thinking; but is designed to develop critical thinking skills by actively involving participants in discussions and informal debate. During the seminar, you will be asked to undertake a community service project(s) involving at least 100 hours during the year following your seminar, to make a difference in your school, community, place of worship, or other environment where you see a need. The program also includes outstanding speakers, leadership activities, and social events. - What are the accommodations and meals like?
Participants will be assigned to dorm rooms with two to three participants per room in dorms reserved exclusively for the seminar. Ambassadors will need to bring towels, bed linens (with blankets depending on weather) and necessary toiletries for four days and three nights. Everyone will receive nutritious breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks. The first meal that will be provided will be lunch on Thursday, so make sure you grab breakfast before you arrive on site. In the pre-seminar forms, please indicate any special dietary considerations, and we will accommodate you. - What if I need to take medication while I am at the seminar?
Please provide information about your medication in your pre-seminar forms and make sure to read and comply with the Policy for Use of Medication During a HOBY Event. - If necessary, how may I be contacted during the seminar?
Parents, friends, and family members are discouraged from calling students during the seminar due to the disruption caused to panels and activities. In case of emergency, your parent(s) or guardian may call Melissa Rotblatt, Director of Recruitment and Ambassador Relations, at 440-465-8902. The seminar will be chaperoned by qualified adults who will be staying at the facility 24 hours a day. - Who pays for the seminar?
Your school, parent, or sponsoring organization has paid a registration fee which covers a portion of your participation. All other costs have been generously provided by sponsors throughout our state, including businesses, foundations, individuals, and service organizations wishing to support leadership education. - What should I wear at the seminar?
Dress is casual and comfortable but school-appropriate. Students are asked to wear a school t-shirt on Thursday. On Saturday (Community Service Day), you will be provided with a HOBY t-shirt to wear (and keep!). For more information, check out our Suggested Packing List. - What transportation arrangements have been made?
Students are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the HOBY Ohio West Leadership Seminar. Transportation is not provided. We strongly discourage students from driving themselves, and students are often very tired at the end of the seminar and we want to make sure everyone gets home safely. If transportation is a barrier, please contact us at hobyleaders@gmail.com and we can connect you with other students from your area. - What if I am unable to attend the seminar?
If circumstances arise that prevent you from attending the entire seminar, including overnight, we would like to give another student the opportunity to attend. Please let your school counselor know, and follow up with us at 440-465-8902 or hobyleaders@gmail.com.
Students are expected to be present for the entire seminar. Requests to leave early on Sunday must be submitted in advance and will be approved on a case-by-case basis . - Who may I contact should I have additional questions?
Additional questions or concerns should be directed to Melissa Rotblatt, Director of Recruitment and Ambassador Relations, at 440-465-8902 or hobyleaders@gmail.com.
