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Book talk and signing to highlight James Owens’ historic role in integrating SEC football

A book talk and signing for “Just Follow Me: James Owens and the Integration of Southeastern Conference Football” will be held Friday, Feb. 6, at 4 p.m. at The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center. A reception will be held prior to the talk from 3:30 to 4 p.m. The event will feature co-authors Thom Gossom Jr. ’75 and Sam Heys and will be open to the public.

In 1969, James Owens (1951–2016) made history as Auburn University’s first Black football player, a milestone that helped usher in the end of segregation in the Southeastern Conference. A talented running back, Owens endured racism and intense scrutiny during his time at Auburn. Through faith, resilience and the support of his family, he persevered—opening the door for generations of Black athletes to follow.

“Just Follow Me” chronicles Owens’ remarkable life and legacy, from his upbringing in Fairfield, Alabama, to his debut as an Auburn Tiger, his later work as a coach and pastor, and his final years marked by serious heart issues. Drawing on personal interviews with Owens and with former teammates, friends and coaches, the book places his story within the broader context of the Civil Rights Movement, offering an honest and inspiring account of a trailblazing athlete and influential leader.

Co-author Thom Gossom Jr. is an actor, writer, speaker, communications consultant and a 1975 Auburn University graduate. He made history as the first Black athlete to graduate from Auburn and was a starting wide receiver for the Tigers from 1972–74. Gossom is the author of “Walk-On: My Reluctant Journey to Integration at Auburn University,” co-author of “Just Follow Me,” and director and producer of “Quiet Courage: The James Curtis Owens Story.” He is also the host of the weekly livestream talk show “Tuesdays with Thom.”

Co-author Sam Heys is an award-winning author and journalist who witnessed the integration of the SEC firsthand as a sportswriter for the Atlanta Journal Constitution and Columbus Enquirer in the 1970s. During extensive research in 1980, Heys interviewed many of the Black pioneers of SEC and ACC schools. He is the author of "Remember Henry Harris: Lost Icon of a Revolution: A Story Hope and Self-Sacrifice in America". Henry Harris was the first African American scholarship athlete at Auburn and played on the men’s basketball team, starting in 1968 as a freshman and debuted on the varsity team in 1969, breaking the color barrier for AU athletics and for SEC schools in the Deep South. Heys has received national recognition for his investigative and sports writing.

The event will include a discussion of the book followed by a signing. Copies of “Just Follow Me” will be available for purchase.

Sponsors include the College of Liberal Arts Strategic Initiatives and Dean’s Office, Auburn University Outreach, Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities, The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, School of Communication and Journalism, and African American and Africana Studies Program.

For more information, contact Joan Harrell.

Tags: Community, Outreach and Engagement Alumni Communication and Journalism