5. Harvard University

Harvard University rounds out the top-performing schools with 13 medals—eight gold, one silver, and four bronze. This year’s Olympics marked a significant improvement for Harvard, as the school broke its 128-year Olympic record. Harvard athletes competed in a variety of sports, with particularly strong showings in fencing and track and field. The school’s performance in Paris was a remarkable step up from previous Olympics, where its athletes had won only a handful of medals.

4. University of Virginia

Swimming was UVa's standout sport, with stars like Raechen Walsh and Kate Douglas leading the way. Both athletes earned multiple medals, greatly contributing to the success of the U.S. women's swimming team. Out of the 14 Olympic medals won by UVa athletes, 11 came from swimming. The team’s strong performance was also supported by coach Todd DeSorbo, whose guidance played a key role in the U.S. women’s team’s success. University of Virginia bagged 7gold, 5 silver, and 2 bronze for this year's olympics.

3. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California (USC) continued its Olympic legacy with a total of 15 medals—seven gold, two silver, and six bronze. USC’s connection to the Olympics dates back over a century, and the school has produced more Olympians, medalists, and gold medalists than any other U.S. university. This year, USC athletes excelled in a variety of sports, from swimming and track and field to less common events like handball and kayaking. The university’s long-standing tradition of Olympic excellence remains unchallenged, with USC athletes consistently making their mark on the world stage.

2. University of California, Berkeley

The University of California, Berkeley also made a significant impact at the Paris Olympics, with 18 athletes winning 23 medals—five gold, 10 silver, and eight bronze. The majority of these medals came from aquatic sports such as swimming, water polo, and rowing, solidifying Berkeley’s strength in these areas. Camryn Rogers’ gold medal in women’s shot put was a highlight, adding to Berkeley’s impressive Olympic record. The university’s consistent performance in the Olympics is a testament to its robust athletic programs and the quality of its athletes.

1. Stanford University

Stanford University led the way with a record-breaking performance, winning a total of 39 medals—12 gold, 14 silver, and 13 bronze. This achievement underscores Stanford’s reputation as a leading institution in producing top-tier athletes. A total of 59 athletes with Stanford backgrounds represented 14 countries in 20 different sports, marking a historical high for the university. Notable athletes such as Katie Ledecky and Tori Husk stood out, with Ledecky securing four medals and Husk adding five to the tally. Stanford’s legacy in the Olympics is long-standing, with its athletes consistently contributing to the U.S. team across multiple games, and this year was no exception.

The impact of U.S. colleges on the Olympics extends far beyond the medal count. These institutions are instrumental in developing the next generation of Olympians, providing world-class training facilities, coaching, and competition opportunities. The rigorous athletic programs at these colleges prepare athletes not only to compete at the highest levels but also to excel on the world stage. This year’s Olympics are a clear testament to the success of these programs and the role they play in shaping the future of international sports.

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