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.
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.
Event Schedule
- 8 – 9:30 a.m.: SSI Board Meeting (invite-only)
- 9:30 a.m.: Doors open + Brunch refreshments
- 10 – 10:45 a.m.: Presentation: A Decade of SSI Impact
- 10:45 – 11:45 a.m.: Panel: SSI Influence: Past, Present, and Future
- 11:45 a.m. – noon: Community Input: What’s Next for SSI?
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.
