by Garrison McDaniel

While Ohio State athletics often takes center stage at the university, there’s a dedicated team working behind the scenes to ensure student-athletes get the most out of their collegiate experience. The Ohio State Athletic Council, a university senate committee, is committed to shaping policies and programs that enhance the academic, athletic, and personal development of Buckeye athletes.

The Athletic Council is composed of faculty, staff, and students from across Ohio State’s undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, as well as alumni and student-athletes. Non-voting members include athletic director Ross Bjork; Kacy King, who heads the Student Athlete Suppprt Services Office; and John Davidson, the university's faculty-athletics representative.

The diverse council collaborates to provide every student-athlete with a supportive environment that addresses both their academic and athletic needs.

Kristin Stanford, this year’s council chair, is a professor and medical researcher at Ohio State who has a personal connection to athletics. Having been a student-athlete herself at Indiana University, Stanford understands the value of mentorship and guidance. She considers it a privilege to be on the council, especially in a year when many Ohio State athletes are competing internationally.

“To see how many student-athletes are excelling across campus, both in Big Ten and NCAA sports—and especially during an Olympic year—really brings home the impact of our work,” Stanford said.

Stanford said her experience as a student-athlete inspired her to join the council, motivated by the hope to emulate the mentors who supported her development. “I had people who influenced me, and I hope to carry that forward in helping develop our student-athletes,” she said.

The council operates through three specialized subcommittees: Academic Progress and Eligibility, Finances and Facilities Equity, and Student-Athlete Wellness. Each plays a critical role in addressing the holistic needs of student-athletes, from academic achievement and eligibility to equitable facilities and mental health resources.

Janine Oman, senior deputy director of athletics at Ohio State, collaborates closely with the council and sees firsthand the value of its work. She emphasized the importance of the council’s varied perspectives, noting that this diversity helps the Athletics Department approach its programs with a well-rounded view.

“Having diverse voices on the council is invaluable,” Oman said. “They bring an outsider’s perspective, which can be incredibly helpful in making decisions that serve our student-athletes best.”

Together, the Athletics Department and the Athletic Council aim to create an environment where Ohio State student-athletes feel supported both on and off the field.

“Our goals are always to support the academic progress of student-athletes and strengthen the partnership with the Athletics Department as we work toward student success,” Stanford said.

Photo caption: Members of Athletics Council take part in a Be Kind service project as part of a trip to the 2023 Cotton Bowl in Dallas.