Oglethorpe University

Mark “Banty” Blanford Eubanks Jr. graduated with a bachelor’s degree in literature and journalism. He was a star track and field athlete and was also a cheerleader, basketball player, and assistant manager of the football team.

Eubanks was one of very few track athletes at the same, but smashed several records and made a name for Oglethorpe track and field. He set school and S.I.A.A records in high jump and hurdles. He briefly held the world record for the 400 meter hurdles in 1927 while trying out for the US Olympic team.

Eubanks was a member of Blue Key honor society, the Lord’s Club, Follies, Boar’s Head, and the Player's Club. He was vice-president of his freshman and sophomore class and a member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. Eubanks was considered one of the best jumpers in the south and one of the most versatile track athletes in Oglethorpe history.

Eubanks served in the U.S Navy during World War II and was a member of Rome, Georgia’s V.F.W. Over the years he was president of Smith and Waters, Inc., president of the Piedmont Traffic Club, and president of Southern Shippers and Motor Carriers Council. He also served on the board of directors for the Greenwood Museum, and served as president for two years.

Eubanks and his wife Clara had one son and three grandchildren.