Eric Boggs
Sunday marked a memorable and meaningful occasion in Columbus as 212 current and former Ohio State student-athletes officially became graduates of The Ohio State University. Among them were 14 Buckeye football players, including several familiar names who helped lead the program on and off the field.
In a celebration befitting Buckeye excellence, the 2025 Spring Commencement was held at the iconic Ohio Stadium, where a total of 12,357 students received their degrees. The ceremony saw recent NFL Draft picks JT Tuimoloau and Jordan Hancock earn degrees in communication and human development and family science, respectively. Fellow starter and 2024 national championship contributor Carson Hinzman also graduated, completing his degree in sport industry. These players may be moving on to new chapters in the NFL or staying to compete in 2025, but their academic achievements reflect the full measure of what it means to be a Buckeye.
One of the most heartwarming moments of the day came from a unique father-son milestone. Cornerback Lorenzo Styles Jr., who is competing to start at nickelback for Ohio State this season, earned his degree in family resource management. His father, Lorenzo Styles Sr.—a former Buckeye himself from the 1992-94 seasons—received his diploma in physical education through the university’s degree completion program. Their shared walk across the stage was a testament to both personal growth and the deep generational bonds that define the Buckeye brotherhood.
From the current roster, Styles Jr. was joined by tight end Bennett Christian (communication) and Hinzman as members of the 2025 football team earning their degrees. Past contributors also returned to the Horseshoe to celebrate their academic accomplishments, including Zak Herbstreit, Cameron Kittle, Joop Mitchell, Jalen Pace, Austin Snyder, Reis Stocksdale, and Kourt Williams—representing various fields from sport industry to journalism. These former players now step into the world with degrees in hand, continuing Ohio State’s proud tradition of developing leaders beyond the gridiron.
Also earning his diploma was former Buckeye running back Miyan Williams, who declared for the 2024 NFL Draft after a productive career in scarlet and gray. His completion of a degree in human development and family science further cements his legacy as more than just a standout on the field.
The celebration extended far beyond the football program. Standout athletes from across Ohio State’s storied athletic department also reached this academic milestone. Former basketball star William Buford received his degree in African American and African Studies, while 12 members of the men’s lacrosse team graduated just a day after winning the Big Ten Tournament. Five champions from the women’s hockey national title team—Riley Brengman, Jenna Buglioni, Lexington Secreto, Kiara Zanon, and Makenna Webster—were also among those honored. Webster, a standout in both hockey and field hockey, epitomizes the spirit of athletic and academic achievement.
Additionally, gymnast Kameron Nelson, the NCAA vault champion; cross country champion Addie Engel; and swimmer Nyah Funderburke, daughter of Buckeye basketball legend Lawrence Funderburke, all walked as graduates. Basketball players Kalen Etzler, Madison Greene, Kaia Henderson, and Eboni Walker also earned their degrees, closing the chapter on their Ohio State playing careers with well-deserved academic accolades.
This commencement was not only a celebration of academic success but also a clear reminder of what sets Ohio State apart: an unwavering commitment to excellence in every field of play and study. These Buckeyes have made their mark in the classroom, on the field, and in our hearts—and they carry the pride of the Scarlet and Gray with them into their futures.
