The Ohio State University has long been a hub for excellence, both on and off the field. From the football gridiron to the basketball court, from the track to the classroom, Ohio State student-athletes have made their mark in every area of competition and academia. This year, a particularly inspiring group of 212 student-athletes—current and former—are poised to walk across the stage, don their caps and gowns, and accept their diplomas, cementing a milestone in their lives. As they graduate, they not only celebrate their academic achievements but also reflect the spirit of determination, perseverance, and commitment that defines the Buckeye way.
At Ohio State, athletic and academic pursuits are not mutually exclusive. The university has cultivated an environment where student-athletes can thrive in both arenas, achieving excellence in their respective sports while maintaining rigorous academic standards. This year’s graduating class of 212 student-athletes exemplifies the very best of Ohio State’s commitment to the holistic development of its students. For many of these individuals, their journey has been marked by late-night study sessions, countless hours of practice, the balancing act of travel and homework, and the deep sense of responsibility to represent their school with integrity and pride.
The significance of this achievement cannot be overstated. The road to graduation for a student-athlete is often longer and more arduous than that of their peers. While other students can focus solely on their studies, the student-athletes at Ohio State must navigate the demands of their sport, manage their time carefully, and continue to excel in the classroom. For the 212 individuals graduating this year, their success is a testament to their resilience, discipline, and determination. They have shown that with a strong work ethic and the support of the Ohio State community, anything is possible.
This year’s graduating class of student-athletes includes a diverse array of individuals, each with their own unique story. Some have been standout athletes, earning All-American honors, setting records, and competing at the highest levels of their respective sports. Others may not have achieved individual accolades but have been just as vital to their teams’ success, providing leadership, work ethic, and support to their teammates. What unites them all is the shared experience of representing Ohio State, a university that is synonymous with excellence in both athletics and academics.
It is impossible to ignore the remarkable impact that Ohio State’s student-athletes have had on their respective teams. Over the years, Buckeyes have secured championships, shattered records, and captured the hearts of fans across the nation. From basketball courts to football fields, track meets to swimming pools, Ohio State’s student-athletes have showcased their skills, determination, and unwavering commitment to their teams and the university. Their dedication has made them champions not only in sports but in life. They have proven that success doesn’t just come from winning games; it also comes from the lessons learned through hard work, perseverance, and teamwork.
However, success in the classroom has always been just as important as success on the field for Ohio State student-athletes. The university prides itself on its commitment to academic excellence, and this year’s graduating class is a shining example of that commitment. These student-athletes have demonstrated that it is possible to achieve greatness both in sports and academics, balancing the demanding nature of athletic competition with the challenges of earning a degree. Whether studying engineering, business, communications, or the humanities, the graduates of this class have proven that they are not just athletes; they are scholars and leaders who will go on to excel in whatever paths they choose after graduation.
As they move forward in their lives, these 212 student-athletes will carry with them the lessons learned during their time at Ohio State. They will draw upon the discipline and work ethic that allowed them to balance their athletic and academic responsibilities. They will rely on the leadership skills they developed as team captains, mentors, and teammates. And they will continue to embody the core values of Ohio State—respect, responsibility, and resilience.
The impact of these student-athletes extends far beyond their individual achievements. The success of each Buckeye athlete is part of a larger tradition that has shaped Ohio State athletics into the powerhouse it is today. The graduating class of 2025 joins the ranks of countless other Buckeye athletes who have made their mark on history. They stand alongside alumni who have gone on to professional sports careers, but just as importantly, they stand alongside those who have become doctors, lawyers, teachers, engineers, and community leaders. The lessons learned through their time as student-athletes—teamwork, leadership, dedication—will serve them as they embark on their next chapters, no matter the field they choose.
For many of these graduates, their time at Ohio State will be remembered not only for their athletic achievements but also for the relationships they formed. The bonds created through shared experiences—whether through grueling early morning practices, traveling to competitions, or studying together in the library—are lasting. These friendships, along with the sense of community at Ohio State, will continue to provide support and inspiration as these student-athletes step into the world beyond college.
The role of coaches and staff in shaping the experiences of these student-athletes cannot be understated. Coaches serve not only as mentors and motivators but also as guides to ensure their athletes succeed both in their sport and in their academics. The relationships between athletes and coaches at Ohio State are often built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared desire for excellence. It is through the guidance and leadership of these coaches that many student-athletes learn to set and achieve goals, overcome obstacles, and realize their full potential. The impact of these coaches extends far beyond the playing field, shaping the next generation of leaders and professionals.
As the 212 student-athletes prepare to cross the stage and receive their diplomas, the Ohio State community stands united in pride. Their graduation is a reflection of the values that make Ohio State one of the top institutions in the nation: hard work, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. Each graduate has contributed to the university’s rich tradition of success and will continue to carry the Buckeye spirit with them in all their future endeavors.
Their accomplishments in both the classroom and the athletic arena speak volumes about the caliber of individuals that Ohio State attracts and nurtures. These student-athletes have proven that it is not enough to be a great athlete—they must also be committed to their education and personal growth. The graduating class of 212 student-athletes represents the bright future of Ohio State, a university that continues to produce leaders who excel in every area of life.
As the saying goes, “Once a Buckeye, always a Buckeye.” The journey of these 212 student-athletes may be coming to an end at Ohio State, but their connection to the university will last a lifetime. They will forever be part of the Buckeye family, proud of their time at Ohio State and the foundation it has provided them for success in all that they do. From here, the sky’s the limit.
So, as we celebrate the achievements of these 212 incredible student-athletes, we offer them our heartfelt congratulations. We salute their dedication in the classroom and on the field. We honor the sacrifices they have made to reach this moment, and we are proud to call them Buckeyes. The future is bright for each of them, and we cannot wait to see all the amazing things they will accomplish as they continue to make their mark on the world.
Congratulations, Class of 2025! You have made us proud, and we are excited to see where your journey takes you next. Once a Buckeye, always a Buckeye.