Amsden Cornelius Oliver
Lifespan: 1912 – 1996
Education:
- B.S., Education, 1937, Miami University
Themes
Biography
Amsden Oliver attended Miami University from fall of 1933 to 1937, pursuing a Bachelors in Education. Born December 25th, 1912 to Nivey Oliver and Ella Brooks, Amsden was raised in Dayton, Ohio. In high school he gained recognition as an impressive athlete in track and field. By the end of his four years at Miami University he was one of the first African American students allowed on an athletics team.
Amsden was also the first African American student on record to live in the campus dormitories. His dorm was called Swing Hall which had just been built in time for students to move in for the fall 1935 semester. As a freshman Amsden set various track and field records including in the 440-yard dash, the 120-yard high hurdles and the 220-yard low hurdles, and for setting records in broad jumpings. He lettered in track and field, and Amsden was the first African American student from Miami University invited to be a National Collegiate Athlete. Still a student at Miami University, Amsden wed Lillian Faulkner on September 17th, 1936.
During World War Two, Amsden served in the Army from December 26th, 1942 to February 19th, 1946, reaching the title of Sergeant. After his service, Amsden pursued a career in physical education. On December 15th, 1996 Amsden Oliver passed away. In 2005 he was inducted into the Miami University Redhawks Hall of Fame for his extensive achievements as a student at Miami University.
Credits
Written by Laura Janosik, (M.A., History, 2023)
Sources
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Published: August 01, 2022
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