This past Saturday I had the pleasure of meeting many of the new students that will be attending Clarion University-Venango Campus this fall.  Along with several other organizations and local service providers, I greeted students and their families on the lawn in front of the Robert W. Rhoades Center. We provided information about things to do in the area and ways to get involved in the school and the community.  It is an exciting time for these students, many fresh out of high school and others returning adults.  Many of the students are moving in from outside the region, into the campus apartments.

It was a reminder to me that we have a great opportunity to let visitors know how much there is to enjoy in Venango County and the chance to invite them to stay and make this their home.  A few of those who stopped by my table were “locals” and appreciated the reminder that there is much to do and see.

I hope you will consider taking a few hours or even a few days to keep an eye out for visitors in our community or maybe even to contact the staff at the Venango Campus to see how you could welcome our new temporary residents.  If we’re lucky they’ll stay long after school is over!