On a rainy first weekend, approximately 450 incoming freshmen at the University of Dayton School of Business Administration were welcomed into their new community in a uniquely impactful way—by participating in a Habitat for Humanity Panel Build event. Despite the persistent rain, the Flyer spirit shone brightly as students donned ponchos, rolled up their sleeves, and got to work. This event, held on the Sunday of Welcome Weekend, marked the second year of the growing partnership between the University of Dayton and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton.

The day began with the freshmen being divided into two teams—blue and red. For several hours, these students, many of whom had never held a hammer before, worked tirelessly to assemble the panels for the next Flyer Nation Build. The rain fell in heavy sheets at times, but not even the weather could dampen the enthusiasm of these new community members. With every nail driven into place, the students took a tangible step toward creating a new home for a local family.

This year’s event builds on the success of last year’s panel build, with the panels constructed in that first event now being used in the Flyer Nation Build in Edgemont, just a few miles from campus. Flyer Nation Build #1 is set to be completed this fall, marking a significant milestone not just for the partnership but for Edgemont itself. This home is the first new home to be built in Edgemont in over 50 years. The excitement surrounding this project is palpable, with students, faculty, and community members coming together to support this project.

The School of Business Administration’s involvement with Dayton Habitat is a powerful expression of its guiding principles: “Learn. Lead. Serve.” However, the mission to serve is not limited to the Business School. The University’s Habitat for Humanity campus chapter is active in the community, with students from all majors coming together to volunteer on various build sites and in the ReStores throughout the academic year. This commitment to service provides students with hands-on opportunities to make a real difference in their community, fostering a sense of responsibility and compassion that will stay with them long after graduation.

To learn more about the Flyer Nation Build and how you can help support this important partnership, visit our website: Flyer Nation Build (daytonhabitat.org)