COLUMBUS, OH—The Ohio State University celebrated the 60th birthday of its iconic mascot, Brutus Buckeye, with a spectacular and record-breaking display of school spirit and community resilience. On October 29, 2025, the university achieved a Guinness World Record for the most people wearing conical party hats simultaneously, successfully rallying 1,924 participants.
The event, which exceeded the previous record of 1,161 set in the UK, was more than just a massive birthday party; it was strategically tied to promoting positive mental health and resilience across the campus community.
A Legacy of Spirit and Resilience
Brutus Buckeye made his debut in 1965, initially a simple, student-made papier-mâché figure. He quickly evolved into a beloved and central symbol of Ohio State’s athletic and campus identity. The 60th anniversary celebration was intended to honor this history while providing a tangible moment of shared, positive experience.
“This celebration of Brutus is really a celebration of our community and the strength we find in appreciating each other,” said Melissa Shivers, Senior Vice President for Student Life, highlighting the event’s core purpose.
The record attempt was held in the Tom W. Davis Gym, necessitated by poor weather, but the change in venue did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of the students, staff, alumni, and fans who turned out in droves. With the official Guinness World Records adjudicator, Chloe McCarthy, on hand to ensure adherence to the strict guidelines, the participants donned Brutus-themed conical party hats and held the pose long enough to secure the victory.
The Mental Health Angle
Crucially, the event was heavily sponsored by the Jeffrey Schottenstein Program for Resilience, the Nina and Ryan Day Resilience Fund, and the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. This partnership allowed the university to frame the mass celebration as an exercise in community-building and well-being.
Mental health professionals involved in the planning emphasized the scientific link between positive emotional experiences, social connection, and an individual’s resilience. Dr. K. Luan Phan highlighted how shared moments of joy and kindness contribute to a culture of empathy and support.
The integration of wellness messaging into a major university tradition sets a new precedent for how Ohio State plans to approach large-scale campus events, embedding themes of kindness and empathy directly into student life activities.
Long-Term Impact
The successful record attempt generated significant positive media attention for the university, showcasing not only the passionate school spirit but also its commitment to student welfare.
In the short term, the event provided a tangible boost to campus morale. In the long term, university officials expect the event to strengthen OSU’s traditions and enhance its reputation as a leader in student wellness. The celebration stands as a powerful demonstration that uniting around shared goals—whether it’s breaking a world record or fostering mental resilience—can have a profound social impact on the entire Buckeye community.