The Jack Trice Memorial Statue, located just north of Beardshear Hall at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, stands as a powerful tribute to the university's first African American athlete and the ideals of perseverance and integrity he embodied. Created in 1988, the 78-inch tall bronze statue was funded through a student-led fundraising campaign, showcasing Trice’s legacy of ethical competition and courage.
The statue depicts Jack Trice wearing a varsity letter sweater, with academic texts at his feet and a letter he wrote before his first and final football game. The letter reflects Trice’s determination, with the words, "The honor of my race, family, and self is at stake. Everyone is expecting me to do big things. I will!" A pair of football cleats rest at his side, symbolizing his dedication to academics and athletics.
Trice, who tragically died from injuries sustained during the game in 1923, was an inspiring figure who overcame personal adversity, including racial discrimination, to excel both on the football field and in the classroom. His story continues to inspire Iowa State students, athletes, and the broader community, making the Jack Trice Memorial Statue a symbol of perseverance, pride, and the pursuit of excellence.
