On a walking tour across the Athens campus, Pam Benoit took some time Wednesday to learn more about the university's history, buildings and students from recent graduate and tour guide Logan Waldie. She also asked about which restaurants and coffee shops she might want to try.

Stopping at Gamertsfelder Hall, the pair discussed accommodations for students and residency requirements. Waldie noted that freshmen and sophomores are required to live on campus, and added that requirement ensures students get to know the campus and learn about all it has to offer.

A native of Indiana, Benoit said she has a passion for sports -- especially basketball -- and vowed to catch some Bobcat games.

As the walk wound up, Benoit thanked Waldie, saying his tour helped her get a better feel for the campus and helped her become familiar with Athens in general.

"There are a lot of things waiting on me, a lot of background work to look through," she said. "I have a lot of catching up to do."

Her biggest priority in the coming days? Noting a pile of e-mail and reports waiting for her review, Benoit had a ready reply.

"Survival," she said with a laugh.

Before joining Ohio University, Benoit was vice provost for advanced studies and dean of the graduate school at the University of Missouri. She succeeds Kathy Krendl, now the president of Otterbein College. To read more about Benoit's selection, visit www.ohio.edu/outlook/08-09/June/674.cfm.