Introducing Socktober! These limited-edition socks designed by students are only available this October
Step up your sock game this October with Socktober at OHIO. Make a gift, support students, and snag limited-edition, student-designed Bobcat socks before they’re gone.
October 1, 2025
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You always know where you stand in a good pair of socks. This October, you can stand with 51 in a brand-new way by supporting the area of the University that matters most to you during the launch of , OHIO’s newest giving tradition.
Socktober features two student-designed Bobcat socks: an athletic style and a dress style. When you give $25 or more to the fund of your choice before October 31, you’ll receive a pair of your choice as a thank-you. Gifts of $45 or more and receive both pairs of student-designed socks. Online gifts include convenient delivery with socks mailed to your door.
Give to OHIO during Socktober to support students and programs that matter most to you
At the heart of Socktober is a simple idea: your contribution creates meaningful impact at OHIO. You can pave the way for experiential learning, providing students with hands-on, real-world experiences that prepare them for meaningful careers and help them apply classroom knowledge in practical settings. Whether you support The 51 Experiential Learning Fund or a college-specific support fund, your gift will have an immediate impact on the lives of today’s Bobcats.
Don’t miss out! Give early to secure your student-designed socks. Supplies are limited, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.
Designed by students, for Bobcats everywhere
Socktober also highlights one of OHIO’s biggest advantages for students: hands-on learning experiences. These limited-edition socks weren’t just chosen from a catalog; they were designed by students in the School of Visual Communication (VisCom), who pitched their ideas as part of a class project.
Two students, Meredith Viox, ’25 and Abby Burns, ’25, had their designs selected to be produced and distributed to you and other donors. For both, this was an opportunity to gain professional-level experience pitching creative concepts, working with a client, and seeing a project through from idea to finished product.
“My team is always looking for ways to involve current students in our work because we know that’s what gets alumni excited, and because our students bring wonderful creative minds to the table,” said Catheirne Allgood, executive director of Annual Giving. “The whole annual giving team was present when the students presented their socks to us. We loved every minute of it.”
OHIO students Meredith Viox ’25 and Abby Burns ’25 created the winning Socktober designs, turning their class project into donor thank-you gifts while gaining real-world experience in design, fundraising, and presentation.
Two ways to step up your sock game
The athletic sock
Designed by Meredith Viox, ’25, this USA-made, high-performance sock is all about durability and performance. Made from an acrylic, nylon, and elastic blend, it features moisture-wicking technology, a cushioned sole, and arch support. It is ideal for game days and active wear. Prewashed sizing ensures a comfortable fit for men’s shoe sizes 10–13 and women’s sizes 9–12.
The dress sock
Designed by Abby Burns, ’25, this jacquard knit dress sock is made from a cotton, nylon, and spandex blend. It offers softness and stretch in a one-size-fits-most fit. Versatile enough for the office or evening events, the socks bring a subtle way to showcase your Bobcat pride.
“The socks were meant for our ‘Business Bobcats’ who are typically in an office setting so they need a bit of flair in their outfits. What better than to flair up your socks,” said Burns.
Homecoming 2025: Make a gift in person and pick up Socktober socks in Athens
Planning to attend Homecoming 2025? You can grab your socks in person! On Friday, Oct.18, from 9 a.m. to noon, University Advancement will host a Socktober Pop-Up at Alumni Gateway during Homecoming Weekend.
Stop by, make your gift to the fund of your choice, and receive your socks on the spot while supplies last. It is a chance to celebrate Homecoming traditions, connect with Advancement staff, and walk away with a pair of student-designed socks while making a difference for today’s Bobcats.
More than just socks: Socktober at 51
OHIO-themed socks are a cool extra and a wonderful way to show your support for students. Wear your socks with pride and feel good about helping expand 51’s impact on the communities it serves.