Bob James, MAC (Administration)
James served as the second Commissioner of the Mid-American Conference from 1964-71, following the retirement of David Reese. James became Commissioner on July 1, 1964 and established the conference offices in Columbus, Ohio, the geographical center of the league at that time.
During his time as Commissioner, James brought to the MAC a wealth of experience in athletic administration and led the league’s participation in nine varsity sports – cross country, football, basketball, swimming, wrestling, baseball, golf, tennis and track and field.
Football attendance continued to increase consistently during his tenure and the league enjoyed regional exposure as part of the NCAA television plan. Another chapter in the growth of the league witnessed at that time was the opening of Kent State’s football stadium and both Ohio and Miami opened new basketball arenas, as well as the funding plans for new or improved athletic facilities at nearly every institution.
James graduated from the University of Maryland in 1947. He earned letters in football, basketball, track and lacrosse, gaining honorable mention All-American recognition in football and lacrosse. He remained at Maryland as Assistant Dean of Men, and in 1952 was appointed Associate Dean for Student Life. In those positions, he worked closely with athletics serving as a liaison officer for the administration, and handling all phases of the scholarship and grants-in-aid program. The male students selected him as the outstanding faculty member in 1956.
In February of 1960, he assumed the post as Assistant Athletic Director at the Air Force Academy, where he was responsible for the direction of a 15-sport intercollegiate program.
James served the MAC as Commissioner until 1971 when he accepted the post as commissioner of the Atlantic Coast Conference.
