University names USC field after 11-time Olympic medalist and alumna Allyson Felix

Allyson Felix

Felix, the most decorated U.S. track and field athlete in Olympic history, is a frequent collaborator with the university and a women’s rights advocate.

USC President Carol L. Folt announced the university is naming the field at one of its landmark sports facilities in honor of Allyson Felix. Felix is an alumna and Olympian who has been a hero both on and off the track, earning the most Olympic medals of any track athlete in U.S. history.

“When Allyson and I spoke about naming the field after her, she responded with the grace and humility she has shown throughout her life,” Folt said. “The Allyson Felix Field will recognize her immense achievements as a sports legend and Trojan — while also showing our admiration for her role as an entrepreneur, advocate and champion for women.”

Allyson Felix celebrates after running the anchor leg for the United States women’s 4x400m relay team that won in the 2016 Rio Olympics. (Photo/Kirby Lee)

Felix — an Olympic sprinter, successful innovator and proud mother — said the naming pays tribute to her ties to both the university and her hometown. As a little girl, she used to take walks on the campus with her grandmother and older brother. He went on to graduate from USC, and she followed in his footsteps.

“For me to be born and raised in Los Angeles and have such a history at USC, I am just completely humbled,” she said. “It’s such a huge honor to be a part of history in the campus, and it’s such a special place for me.”

The field sits at the center of Katherine B. Loker Track Stadium, which serves as a hub for the men’s and women’s track teams and also groups such as ROTC, the Trojan Marching Band and recreational sports.

Allyson Felix Field honors an inspiring Trojan

“Allyson is the most decorated Track and Field Olympian in U.S. history and an inspiration to generations of Trojans,” Folt said. “My hope is that students playing on the Allyson Felix Field — or just walking by — will see her name prominently displayed and be curious to learn more about her talent, grit and generosity.”

Read more about Allyson’s story