Ohio State celebrates Brutus Buckeye’s 50th birthday
Columbus, Ohio – Brutus Buckeye is turning 50 years old, and the birthday celebration begins on Thursday, Aug. 27, at Student Life’s Buckeye Kick-Off. The event, which begins at 6 p.m. in Ohio Stadium, will include thousands of students wishing Brutus a happy birthday and forming a giant “50” on the field. There will also be a special card stunt by Block O.
The iconic mascot of The Ohio State University made his debut in the fall of 1965, and the Office of Student Life, the Athletics Department and other university units are planning a number of birthday celebrations for the upcoming school year.
Prior to 1965, Ohio State had no mascot. That year Ohio State students launched an effort to create a mascot for the school. In October 1965, students built a papier-mâché mascot that made its debut by walking down the Ohio Stadium entrance ramp at the Homecoming football game against Minnesota. Soon after the game, Ohio Staters, Inc. (Staters), who had helped pay for the creation, sponsored a contest that led to the name Brutus Buckeye.A major focus of the yearlong celebration is to raise money to fund scholarships for students who play the role of Brutus. The students performing as Brutus are some of the most dedicated representatives in our institution’s history. In addition to pursuing their academic careers, they generously give their time and talent providing immeasurable community service.
Brutus has undergone a number of updates through the years, and has become a beloved figure appearing not only at Ohio State sporting events, but also at most major university events.
The yearlong birthday party will also include special recognition for Brutus during the Nov. 7 home football game against Minnesota. There will be a gala celebration the preceding evening to raise funds to fully endow the new Brutus scholarships. In addition, Brutus will serve as Grand Marshal of the Homecoming Parade on Oct. 9.
Additional information about the Brutus 50th Birthday celebration can be found online.
