COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Former Ohio State athletes who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics were honored by the school's Department of Athletics on Friday, adding their names to the list of other Buckeyes who can now call themselves Olympians. The event honored 15 former students who went on to compete in several categories at the Olympics in track & field, artistic swimming, and fencing. Joined by family and friends, each athlete had the chance to share which country they represented, and their favorite memories from their time in France. Columbus invests $500,000 in home repair program for elderly, disabled and veteran homeowners Germany diving team member Lena Hentschel noted there's nothing better than being recognized from the place that helped mold them into the Olympians they now are. "My first reaction was I was just, I was happy. I was overwhelmed actually at the beginning, being part of such a family like the Ohio State Olympians is really special, " Hentschel said. The feeling from these athletes was that of pride for being a part of the Ohio State family and a sense of gratitude. Canada track & field team member Duan Asemota felt grateful knowing their hard work was worth highlighting. "This is something I anticipated for a long time,” Asemota said. “Coming back to school, being an Olympian is a huge accomplishment and it's at the Ohio State, one of the biggest schools you can be recognized at so it's a great honor." The Olympians will also be recognized on the field during halftime at Saturday night's football game against Nebraska.