Oldest Living Olympic Athlete, Pitt Alum Herb Douglas Dies

The Pitt Panthers lost one of their most decorated former athletes.

PITTSBURGH -- The Pitt Panthers are mourning the loss of one of their most decorated alumni this morning. Herbert Douglas, the oldest living United States Olympian and a University of Pittsburgh Graduate from the class of 1948, has passed away at the age of 101, the school announced. 

“In every role that he filled, as an aspiring athlete from Hazelwood, as a student-athlete and University trustee and as an esteemed businessman, Olympian and community leader, Herb Douglas excelled,” Pitt Chancellor Patrick Gallagher said. “He was both a champion himself and a champion of others, never hesitating to open doors of opportunity and help people pursue their own success. Unsurprisingly, Herb left an indelible mark on this world, while leaving an incomprehensible hole in the hearts of so many. I am proud to have called him my friend, and Karen and I will be keeping his family and circle of loved ones close in thought as we begin to honor his remarkable life and legacy.”

Douglas graduated from Pitt with a bachelor's degree in physical education and placed second in the log jump at the Olympic trials in the same year. Months later, he won bronze in the same event at the 1948 London Summer Olympics. 

“Herb Douglas led a remarkable life that inspired people the world over. Whether it was as an Olympic medalist, accomplished business executive or personal mentor, Herb impacted and was loved by so many. That is certainly the case at the University of Pittsburgh, where his life and legacy are truly enduring,” Athletic director Heather Lyke said. “On a personal note, one of the greatest blessings for me here has been getting to know Herb and listening to the stories he shared and lessons he taught me. His incredible intellect and determination were only surpassed by his personal kindness. Pitt Athletics is forever indebted to his passion and support. It is so fitting that our future indoor track will be named in Herb’s honor, ensuring his name and legacy live on to inspire future Pitt student-athletes.”

The indoor track facility that is to be built as part of Pitt's Victory Heights project will be named after Douglas, Gallagher announced. 

Douglas was a native of Pittsburgh and also played for Pitt's football team when he transfered to the school in 1945. During his time at Pitt, he became close friends with Jimmy Joe Robinson, another pioneering Black student-athlete. Along with Allen Carter, they became the first Black football players at Pitt.

While enjoying a successful career in business, Douglas used his influence to help Black people climb the economic ladder and became a friend to several national leaders of the Civil Rights movement like Jesse Owens and Martin Luther King Jr. 

His commitment to philanthropy lived on in his later years as he raised support for college athletes and showcased important aspects of the history of African Americans in sport.

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