The Sports and Society Institute at The Ohio State University will host “Celebrating the 90th Anniversary of Jesse Owens’ Olympic Triumphs” on Sept. 10, 2026, from 5–7 p.m. at the WOSU Ross Community Studio Theater.
Presented in partnership with America 250-Ohio State, the event will honor the 90th anniversary of Owens’ historic performance at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin and explore the lasting influence of one of the most important athletes in American history.
Owens, an Ohio State track and field legend, won four gold medals at the 1936 Olympics, becoming a global symbol of courage, excellence and resilience. His victories challenged racist ideology on the world stage and helped redefine the power of sport to shape conversations about race, representation, patriotism and American identity.
Ninety years later, Owens’ story continues to resonate far beyond track and field.
“Jesse Owens’ legacy is not only an Ohio State story — it is an American story and a global story,” said Nicole Kraft, director of the Sports and Society Institute. “As part of America 250, this event gives us an opportunity to reflect on how one athlete’s brilliance, dignity and determination changed the way the world understood sport, race and possibility.”
The evening will feature a panel discussion, “Jesse Owens and the American Story,” with participants including 1988 Olympic track gold medalist Butch Reynolds; Kevin Jones, author of "Jesse Owens: A Life in American History," Ohio State Jesse Owens archivist Tamara Chute and legendary sports broadcaster Fox Sports Gus Johnson. The conversation will examine Owens’ impact on athletics, culture, education, media and society, while also considering how his legacy continues to shape the experiences of modern athletes and students.
Discussion topics will include the global significance of the 1936 Olympics, Owens’ role in challenging barriers and reshaping perceptions of sports, the relationship between sports and American identity, and the importance of preserving and interpreting Owens’ legacy for future generations.
The event will also highlight Ohio State’s connection to Owens through athletics, scholarship and archival preservation. Programming may include archival photos and video, materials connected to the Jesse Owens collection, student storytelling and opportunities for audience questions.
Hosted by the Sports and Society Institute, the program is designed for Ohio State students, faculty, researchers, alumni, athletics community members, Columbus residents, America 250 partners and anyone interested in sports history, Olympic history and the role of athletes in shaping society.
The event will take place two days before Owens’ birthday on Sept. 12, adding significance to a gathering focused on reflection, celebration and continued learning.
Register today: https://go.osu.edu/ssi-jesseowens