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- calendar_today October 9, 2026
Ohio State Marks 90 Years Since Jesse Owens’ Historic Olympic Victories
The Ohio State University recently held an event commemorating the 90th anniversary of Jesse Owens’ remarkable achievements at the 1936 Olympics. Hosted by Ohio State's Sports and Society Institute in partnership with America 250-Ohio State and Ohio State Libraries, the gathering brought together prominent voices to reflect on Owens’ enduring legacy and impact on sports history.
A Life of Athletic Excellence and Historic Impact
Jesse Owens, a legendary Ohio State Buckeyes track star, dominated the collegiate track season in 1936, remaining undefeated in 42 events. That same year, he captured global attention by winning four Olympic gold medals in Berlin, triumphing in the 100-meter dash, 200-meter dash, broad jump, and as part of the 4x100-meter relay team. Competing in Nazi-controlled Germany, Owens’ performance became a symbol of courage and equality on the world stage.
The Panel: Family and Fellow Athletes Reflect on Owens’ Legacy
The commemorative event, held at Thompson Library, featured descendants of Jesse Owens and notable figures from the world of track and field. Owens’ grandchildren, Stuart Owens Rankin and Marlene Hemphill Dortch, shared personal memories and discussed the ongoing influence of their grandfather.
Stuart Owens Rankin expressed pride in his grandfather’s achievements, noting the deep admiration people from various backgrounds continue to show nearly a century later. Hemphill Dortch, a graduate of Ohio State’s Moritz College of Law, emphasized that while Owens remains an inspiration, he encouraged his family to pursue and appreciate their own accomplishments.
Celebrating Inspiration: The Enduring Legacy at Ohio State
The panel also included 1988 Olympic gold medalist and Ohio State alumnus Butch Reynolds, who credited Owens with inspiring his own athletic journey. Reynolds spoke about choosing Ohio State because of Owens’ legacy and the tradition of excellence he established. He recalled, "I know that he won four gold medals, so I know he can endure [challenges] through the tradition of The Ohio State University."
Rosalind Joseph, director and head coach of Ohio State’s track and field and cross country programs, highlighted how today’s student athletes feel connected to Owens’ legacy and strive to be part of that tradition. For many, knowledge of Owens extends beyond his athletic achievements to his global impact and ongoing relevance in sports history.
Special Guests and Historical Insights
The event featured additional insights from Fox Sports anchor Gus Johnson and Kevin Jones, author of “Jesse Owens: A Life in American History.” Prior to the panel, Nicole Kraft, director of the Sports and Society Institute, and John Davidson, Ohio State's Athletics Department faculty representative, discussed the significance of Owens’ accomplishments in Berlin during a fraught time in world history.
Davidson noted that Owens’ legacy is honored not just at Ohio State, where the Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium stands as a tribute, but also internationally. Berlin commemorates Owens with Jesse Owens Way, a street near the Olympic stadium. Davidson remarked on the welcoming reception Owens received from the public during his Olympic victories, stating, “Jesse Owens is revered.”
Continuing the Legacy: Inspiration for Generations
Although Jesse Owens did not graduate from Ohio State, he was later awarded an honorary doctorate of athletic arts in 1972. His influence continues to inspire athletes and students alike, both within the university and beyond. As the 90th anniversary of his Olympic feats is observed, Owens’ legacy as a trailblazer in track and field and as a symbol of hope and perseverance remains alive for new generations seeking inspiration from his story.
Source: news.osu.edu.
