Call the Alumni Engagement Center at (800) 678-6011 or (614) 247-4105.
Alternatively, register online by clicking the link below.
The Ohio State Sports and Society Initiative will celebrate its 10th anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 5, highlighting a decade of research, programming, and student career readiness at the intersection of sport and society.
Founded in 2015, SSI has grown into a nationally recognized leader in sports-focused research and outreach, bridging the classroom, newsroom, and community. Through events, partnerships, and mentorship, SSI has helped shape the future of sport for students and the broader community.
The event, "10 Years of Impact: Building the Next Decade of Sports & Society," will open with a powerful keynote from Keandre Jones, former Ohio State and NFL linebacker and the founder of Everyday “A” Episode—an organization committed to breaking down stigmas around mental health and empowering communities through service, education, and storytelling. Jones’ mission reflects SSI’s belief in the profound ways sport can shape individuals, communities, and society at large.
The program will also highlight SSI’s three pillars—research, career readiness and programming—through presentations from faculty leaders and staff, showcase transformative student voices, and invite dialogue from advisory board members, alumni, and community partners about the future of SSI.
Attendees will leave with both inspiration and action steps—how to partner, mentor, or contribute to SSI’s next decade of work at the intersection of sports and society.
The event is open to the public beginning at 9:30 a.m., with the keynote beginning at 10:05 a.m. Full details are available [on the SSI website].
Anniversary Celebration
The 10th Anniversary Celebration will take place at WOSU’s Ross Community Theater and will include opportunities to reflect on SSI’s impact and envision what’s next.
9:30 a.m. Doors open + Brunch Refreshments
10-10:05 a.m. Welcome & Framing
10:05-10:30 a.m. Keynote: Keandre Jones – Everyday “A” Episode
10:35-11:15 a.m. SSI Impact Showcase: “Our Three Pillars”
- Research – Ryan Ruddy & Chris Knoester: Share key studies, policy impact and national recognition.
- Career Readiness – Aaron Klein: Spotlight internships, career pathways, alumni success.
- Programming – Nicole Kraft: Highlight events, panels, podcasts, and outreach that engage campus and community.
11:15–11:35 a.m. Student Voices
11:35-11:55 a.m. Advisory Board + Community Conversation
- Board members to briefly (1–2 min each) reflect on why SSI matters and what excites them for the future.
11:55 a.m.-noon Closing & Call to Action
Looking Back
In 2024–2025 alone, SSI hosted more than 25 student-focused events and panels, expanded its internship programming in social media, podcasting, analytics, and event planning, and saw record student engagement with 144 members in the SSI Student Club. SSI also launched efforts toward new sports-focused courses, while continuing to partner with professional organizations and alumni mentors to expand student pathways.
Looking Ahead
As SSI enters its second decade, plans include:
- New academic offerings in sports leadership and internships
- Expanded student scholarships and paid internships
- Growing alumni and mentor networks
- Yearly honors recognizing SSI champions
- Continued programming on timely topics such as athlete mental health and sports gambling
How to Support
SSI invites alumni, faculty, and community partners to support its mission by:
- Helping fund student experiences
- Supporting faculty
- Supporting research efforts
- Connecting students with professional networks
- Championing SSI’s work in the community
To learn more, contact sportssociety@osu.edu.