When
Dennis Ogbe reflects on Bellarmine University’s 75th anniversary, he sees more than a milestone. He sees a community that shaped his life – from a young man arriving in
Louisville from Kaduna, Nigeria, to a global Paralympian, business leader, husband, father, and devoted alum. “Bellarmine’s 75th Anniversary is a reminder of the enduring legacy rooted in its Catholic tradition,” he said. “My
education shaped me professionally, personally, and spiritually.”
Campaign Pillar: Athletics Excellence
Why this pillar matters to Dennis
Of Bellarmine’s four campaign pillars, Athletics Excellence resonates most deeply with Dennis Ogbe. After being paralyzed by polio at the age of three, it was athletics, combined with perseverance and a determined spirit, that changed the trajectory
of his life.
“Athletics taught me resilience, discipline and the power of believing in what is possible,” Dennis said. “That is why this pillar stands out for me; it reflects the very foundation of who I am today.”
Support this pillar: Your gift strengthens opportunities for student-athletes and helps carry Bellarmine’s mission forward. MAKE A GIFT »
Finding Purpose, Support, and Community
Dennis’ journey to Bellarmine was, as he puts it, “divine alignment.” A polio survivor determined to pursue athletics, he connected with then–Track & Field Director Jim Vargo, whose confidence in his potential opened the door
to an education he had long prayed for – a place where he could grow academically and spiritually. Bellarmine’s intimate learning environment and Catholic identity were exactly what he sought.
Throughout his time as a student, the Bellarmine community became something deeper than a support system. It became family. “Professors and staff didn’t just teach me; they walked with me,” Dennis said. Those relationships continued
long after graduation. Mentors like Dr. Fred Rhodes, Dr. Alice Kimble and her family, and Dr. Sue Davis and her husband, Bob – a fellow U.S. Paralympian – remained by his side during major life moments, including the births of his
children and the profound losses of both his parents.
“The love, prayers, and presence of the Bellarmine community were blessings no amount of money could ever buy,” he shared.
A Spirit Rooted in Gratitude
Dennis began giving back to Bellarmine before he even received his first degree – a natural response to the opportunities he had been given. As a student-athlete traveling the world, he spoke proudly of Bellarmine. After earning his MBA, he deepened
his engagement: speaking in classes, assisting with mock interviews, attending campus events, supporting students, and serving on the Advancement Board.
“I am inspired to give back because I know firsthand how much the generosity of others has shaped my life,” Dennis said. “I give back because passing it forward strengthens our shared humanity.”
One gift in particular remains at the center of his gratitude. “I will forever be grateful to Judge Anne Shake and her siblings for their donation that made it possible for me to attend Bellarmine,” he shared. “Their gift didn’t
just impact me, but my family, children, and future grandchildren.”
Ogbe on the cover of a 2011 Bellarmine Magazine.
Athletics as a Foundation for Life
Of the four pillars of Bellarmine’s comprehensive campaign, Athletics Excellence resonates most deeply with Dennis. After being paralyzed by polio at age three, sports helped rewrite the trajectory of his life. Using “the strength God placed
in my hands,” he rose to become a world-class competitor in shot put and discus, representing the United States in national championships, the Pan American Games, the World Championships, and the Paralympic Games.
“Athletics taught me resilience, discipline, and the power of believing in what is possible,” he said. “It reflects the foundation of who I am.”
Prepared for Professional and Personal Success
Dennis credits his Bellarmine professors – whose real-world experience shaped the classroom – for preparing him for his first role in a Fortune 500 company. “Their lived experiences, shared openly and passionately,
prepared me for life,” he said.
Today, he continues to stay connected to the Bellarmine community through professional mentorship, campus involvement, athletic training on the track, and advocacy for prospective students.
A Message for Fellow Alums
“Bellarmine helped shape who we are in ways that cannot be measured. No gift is too small to change a life,” Dennis said. “I encourage you to give what you can and help carry Bellarmine’s legacy forward.”
Looking to the Next 75 Years
As Bellarmine celebrates its anniversary, Dennis feels gratitude – and a renewed responsibility. “This milestone inspires me to help ensure that Bellarmine continues to thrive for the next 75 years and beyond,” he said.
For Dennis Ogbe, Bellarmine is more than a university. It is a blessing, a family, and a foundation that continues to shape his life – and, through his generosity and leadership, the lives of future Knights.