IMPACT

THE GAINOR FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

As proud alumni of Ohio University, Brian Gainor and his family established The Gainor Family Scholarship in Fall 2024 to honor and support outstanding students in the Ohio University Master of Sports Administration program. This scholarship celebrates individuals who exemplify leadership, integrity, and a commitment to excellence within the global sports industry.

In May 2025, we proudly awarded the first-ever Gainor Family Scholarship to Mahmud Oluwalose - a standout graduate of the Ohio University Sports Administration program whose journey is nothing short of remarkable.

Originally from Nigeria, Mahmud is the founder of Rooted in the Game, a sports agency he launched while in school. He’s already earned his FIFA agent license and is creating life-changing opportunities for young African athletes to access the global sports stage. Learn more about Mahmud and his journey and accomplishments here.

This scholarship was created to recognize and uplift the next generation of leaders in sports and entertainment - and Mahmud is just the beginning. We look forward to supporting many more game-changers in the years ahead.

Ohio University logo featuring a white illustration of a building and a clock tower with the year 1804 on a green background.
Seal of Ohio University Sports Administration featuring handshake, laurel branches, and text.
At an awards ceremony, a large screen displays a photo of a man in a suit with short curly hair, alongside text that reads: "2025 Gainor Family Scholarship Recipient Mahmud Oluwalose '25." The stage is accentuated with green lighting, and several individuals are standing on it, dressed in formal attire.
Two men in suits at a conference, one holding a cap and the other a glass of water, smiling at the camera, with conference badges hanging around their necks.

About The Gainor Family Scholarship

The Gainor Family Scholarship celebrates and supports exceptional students in the Ohio University Master of Sports Administration program who embody the spirit of leadership and a commitment to excellence in the global sports industry. The Gainor Family Scholarship recognizes one outstanding individual annually who demonstrates:

  • Leadership and Integrity: Demonstrates outstanding leadership skills, coupled with a commitment to ethical decision-making and integrity in all endeavors.

  • Passion and Drive: Exhibits a deep passion for sports and the Ohio University Sports Administration program and an unwavering drive to succeed and make a meaningful difference in the field.

  • Global Aspirations: Aims to create a positive impact through sport within the United States and around the world.

This scholarship recognizes students who are not only excelling academically but are also deeply committed to shaping the future of sports as a force for good, embodying the values of the Gainor family.

Bobcats - Let’s Make a Difference Together.

As strong advocates of "Bobcats Doing Business with Bobcats," Gainor Sports proudly commits 5% of proceeds from projects with fellow Ohio University alumni to the Gainor Family Scholarship. This initiative aims to inspire and support the next generation of international sports business leaders from around the globe.