Sidney Oglesby
Pioneer gymnast, Politician, Jury commissioner, Civil Rights activist.
He is a two-time All-American, NCAA champion (vault), three-time ECAC champion and three-time letter winner. He was the first African-American gymnast to earn All-America honors and to be an NCAA champion, which he accomplished in 1964. The first American Black All-American (Syracuse University) . Inductee into the Greater Syracuse Sports Hall of Fame, Class of 2023. Also, the Syracuse 8 Courage Award, was bestowed upon him in 2007.
Ogelsby was recognized as a Letterwinner of Distinction by Syracuse Athletics in 2012. He earned a B.A. in education and an M.A. in Counseling and Rehabilitation in 1968. For 15 years, Ogelsby served as the Onondaga County Commissioner of Jurors, in addition to serving stints on the Syracuse Common Council and the Onondaga County Legislature. The jury room at the Onondaga County Criminal Courthouse now bears his name.
Bio
Sidney Oglesby’s journey from a young athlete in Jersey City, New Jersey, to a distinguished public figure exemplifies a lifetime of making a difference.
Growing up as the 11th child in a large family, Sid discovered his passion for gymnastics early on. His remarkable talent earned him a scholarship to Syracuse University, where he chose to pursue his athletic dreams despite offers from other prestigious institutions.
In the racially charged climate of the 1960s, Sid faced numerous challenges as the only African-American member of the SU gymnastics team. Undeterred by segregation and discrimination, he persevered, becoming the Eastern Intercollegiate Gymnastic League champion in the parallel bars and vault during his sophomore year.
However, Sid’s crowning achievement came in 1964 when years of dedication culminated in him clinching the NCAA National Champion title in the vault with an impressive score of 9.75. This historic win made him the first African-American in NCAA history to achieve both All-American honors and a national championship in gymnastics.
Outside the gym, Sid was a vocal advocate for civil rights at SU, joining his peers in supporting initiatives to end interscholastic competition with segregated schools. His activism contributed to positive change within the university community.
After graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in education and a Master’s degree in Counseling and Rehabilitation in 1968, Sid remained in Syracuse, dedicating himself to public service. He served in various civil positions, including the Syracuse Common Council and the Onondaga County Legislature, where he was appointed Democratic Floor Leader.
Sid’s impact extended beyond politics. As the Onondaga County Commissioner of Jurors from 2001 to 2015, he implemented reforms that improved efficiency and reduced the burden on potential jurors, earning recognition for his contributions to the justice system.
In recognition of his achievements and service, Syracuse University honored Sid with the Syracuse 8 Courage Award in 2007 and named him a LetterWinner of Distinction in 2012.
Throughout his accomplished career and into retirement, Sid has remained devoted to his community alongside his wife, Donna, raising two daughters, Sheena and Elena, in Syracuse.
Sidney Oglesby’s legacy is one of trailblazing athleticism, unwavering activism, and dedicated public service. As the first African-American gymnast to achieve both All-American honors and a national championship in NCAA history, he broke barriers and inspired generations with his remarkable achievements in college gymnastics.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Oglesby’s advocacy for civil rights and social justice at Syracuse University left a lasting impact, contributing to positive change within the university community. His commitment to public service continued throughout his career, where he served in various civil positions, including the Syracuse Common Council and the Onondaga County Legislature.
Oglesby’s legacy is characterized by his tireless dedication to improving his community, exemplified by his reforms as the Onondaga County Commissioner of Jurors, which earned him recognition for his contributions to the justice system. His enduring impact is felt not only in the realm of sports but also in the broader spheres of civil rights, public service, and community engagement.
Through his accomplishments and service, Sidney Oglesby leaves behind a legacy of resilience, leadership, and advocacy that continues to inspire and uplift others, shaping a brighter future for generations to come.