Ben Siegel/Ohio University City of Athens Mayor Steve Patterson (left) and Ohio University President M. Duane Nellis stand near the newly completed Richland Ave Passageway in October 2020. Ohio University and the City of Athens will co-host the fifth annual Ohio Town and Gown Association Summit July 14-15. The Summit, happening virtually, will bring together municipal, community, and higher education leaders from across the state to discuss and explore best practices to strengthen town-gown partnerships, showcase innovative collaborative programs and projects, and share strategies for community and economic development. “It is an incredible honor for Ohio University to be a co-host of the fifth annual Ohio Town and Gown Association Summit along with the City of Athens,” Ohio University President M. Duane Nellis said. “The relationships that the University has with community partners and the City of Athens are immeasurable and help provide a unique learning experience for all OHIO students. This conference is a great opportunity to highlight our strengths as well as the importance of town and gown connections.”