Wayne Woodrow Hayes Chair in National Security Studies

Ohio State's beloved football coach Woodrow "Woody" Hayes was not only a fierce competitor on the field, but was also an active and astute observer of military history and national security. He was interested in both athletics and academics, a combination that enhances the legacy he has left Ohio State.

As a veteran of World War II, Coach Hayes had a strong interest in military strategy. Among other things, he hosted a local television program that discussed national security in a historical perspective and guest lectured on the topic at colleges and universities around the United States, including Harvard University.

After his death, the university community proposed making an academic tribute to Coach Hayes. Honoring his commitment to the academic fields he was interested in was "beyond his wildest dreams," said his widow, Anne Hayes.

Through the efforts of Coach Hayes' widow, Anne; his son, Judge Steven B. Hayes; his many friends and admirers; and the university community, the campaign to fund the Wayne Woodrow Hayes Chair in National Security Studies was completed in 2001.

The income from this endowment provides funds for the Mershon Center to be home to a high-profile, tenured professor who conducts research and educates a new generation in the issues of national security studies.

Applications sought

The Mershon Center for International Security Studies invites applications for the endowed position of the Wayne Woodrow Hayes Chair in National Security Studies. The Chair will be appointed at the Mershon Center and another tenure unit at The Ohio State University. He/she will be expected to lead an active interdisciplinary program dedicated to teaching and research on national security issues.

Successful candidates will be established scholars with international recognition and a distinguished record of publication and teaching related to issues of national security. Applicants may come from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines, including geography, history, law, political science, philosophy, public policy, public affairs/administration, sociology, and other areas of national security expertise. The Chair will be appointed jointly in the Center and as a tenured professor in another academic unit and will have a significant reduction in teaching duties.

Applicants should submit a letter of interest, current curriculum vitae or resume, and the names of three references to: Wayne Woodrow Hayes Chair Search Committee, Mershon Center for International Security Studies, 1501 Neil Ave., Columbus, OH 43201. Electronic applications may be sent to Mershon.HayesChair@oia.osu.edu. Questions or nominations may be addressed to Mershon Center Director Craig Jenkins at jenkins.12@osu.edu. The Ohio State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

To give to the Wayne Woodrow Hayes Chair in National Security Studies, please visit its page in University Development.

Wayne Woodrow "Woody" Hayes