Howard Hale Cassady was born in 1933 in Columbus, Ohio and is the most legendary athlete in the history of Ohio State University. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1955 and became one of the greatest football players of all time, playing for the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions. The positive benefits of his legacy are immense and can be seen throughout the Ohio State University campus.

Cassady is remembered for his leadership, loyalty, and humility. He was the first three-time All-America halfback in college football, and set a record of 4,500 all-purpose yards during his career. He notoriously won the Heisman Trophy during his junior year and was chosen for the College Football Hall of Fame in 1979.

Throughout his time at Ohio State, Cassady remained humble as he continued to inspire those around him. He set an example of leading by example and inspired players and coaches of his time by his character both on and off the field. He displayed a strength of character and a remarkable commitment to the team-oriented attitude, which further solidified his legacy as a player.

In addition, Cassady’s impact on the Ohio State University campus is evident in the name of its athletic center, the Howard H. Cassady Football Center. The center was endowed by Cassady in 1999 and provides a place for current student athletes to find solace in. The center was designed for those looking to strengthen their character, leadership, and academic excellence inside and outside of athletics and also allows for more opportunities for players.

Through generations, Cassady’s spirit has been cultivated and passed down to new generations of athletes. His inspiring nature and unwavering commitment to excellence have created a lasting legacy at Ohio State. From his dedication and loyalty as an athlete to the academic achievements, he displayed, Cassady's legacy will forever remain at Ohio State and will continue to inspire each new generation of athletes.