Ohio State University to recognizes legacy of Anne and Woody Hayes

The Ohio State University announced Thursday that it will lead the celebration of legendary football coach Woody Hayes on February 15, 2013, marking 100 years since his February 14, 1913, birth. The event will highlight Hayes coaching career, as well as both Anne and Woody Hayes’ impact on the university.

The main university event, the Woody and Anne Hayes Tribute Event, will be a celebration dinner at 7 p.m. on Feb. 15, at the Woody Hayes Athletic Facility; 535 Irving Schottenstein Dr. Proceeds from the event will go to funds at Ohio State that represent Anne and Woody’s favorite causes, including:

—The Anne Hayes Memorial Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which supports students in the College of Social Work;

—The Woody and Anne Hayes 1968 National Championship Athletic Scholarship Fund, which provides or supplements scholarships for former varsity football players; and

—The Wayne Woodrow Hayes Chair in National Security Studies, a position dedicated to conducting research and educating a new generation in national security studies.

Legendary ESPN and ABC television network sportscaster Brent Musburger will be special guest at the tribute. Musburger is one of the original members of The NFL Today, who also has covered NASCAR, NBA, MLB and NCAA football and basketball games.

Archie Griffin, president and CEO of The Ohio State University Alumni Association, and the nation’s only two-time Heisman Trophy winner, will be master of ceremonies for the event, which will feature noted NFL players, sports leaders and sports celebrities from multiple eras.

Steven Hayes, son of Anne and Woody, is the honorary chair for the event.

Woody Hayes was head coach of the Ohio State football team for 28 seasons (1951–1978) and a significant contributor to the university during his tenure as a coach and as a member of the university staff. During his time as coach, the Buckeyes won five national championships, 13 Big Ten Conference titles and accumulated a record of 205–61–10.

Hayes was also known for his love of the university and inspired hundreds of thousands with his passion for winning and his love of military history.

In his commencement speech to Ohio State’s March 1986 graduates, Hayes urged them to “pay forward,” his motivational phrase about the importance of taking public and personal responsibility. The idea has sparked numerous university groups dedicated to public service and giving back.

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, Columbus Government Examiner

John Michael Spinelli is a communication professional and former credentialed Ohio statehouse journalist. His professional background in economic development, combined with his work for the Ohio Senate, The Ohio Public Works Commission and the Office of Ohio Secretary of State, give him great...

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