Carl C. James (September 18, 1925 – July 3, 2004) was an American collegiate sports executive. He was the commissioner of the Big Eight Conference from 1980 through 1996.
Early life and education
A native of Raleigh, N.C., he graduated from Duke University. He earned seven varsity letters in football and track and field between 1949 and 1951.[1][2]
Career
James was an athletic director at the University of Maryland and Duke University.[2] In 1980, he became commissioner of the Big Eight Conference and retired from the role in 1996. He helped expand the program by adding four schools and making it the Big 12 Conference.[2]
Personal life
James married Marjorie Pettit. They had two daughters.[2] He died on July 3, 2004, at his home in Cornelius, North Carolina.[2]
Awards and honors
- 1996: James J. Corbett Memorial Award[3]
References
- "Carl James (1990) - Duke Athletics Hall of Fame". Duke University. Retrieved May 16, 2024.
- "James, Former Maryland A.D., Dies". Terrapin Athletics. July 3, 2004. Retrieved April 5, 2026.
- "The NCAA News: News & Features". Archived from the original on December 3, 2013. Retrieved December 2, 2013.