Indiana University President Michael A. McRobbie presided over the dedication of the George Taliaferro Plaza, unveiling a bronze statue of Taliaferro, one of the most important and influential individuals in the history of Indiana University and IU Athletics.

Taliaferro, who passed away Oct. 8, 2018, at the age of 91, was a legendary Indiana University football player during the 1940s who shattered racial barriers on campus and in the sport. In doing so, he left an indelible mark on both.

Taliaferro's lifetime of accomplishments are chronicled on the statue, which is the work of Brian Hanlon, owner of Hanlon Studios. Hanlon has produced more than 300 works in both public and private collections, including the five granite monuments commemorating IU Basketball's five national championships that are located in Ken Nunn Champions Plaza on the south end of Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall.