Program Directory

 
City Club of Cleveland - James E. Delany, Commissioner, Big Ten Conference
City Club of Cleveland
 
 
 
Only the Big Ten's fifth commissioner since its founding in 1896, James E. Delany enters his 22nd year in that role. He has led the Big Ten through significant periods of change and growth that have helped the conference maintain its preeminent position as one of the nation's leaders in providing quality athletic and academic experiences for young people.

The 62-year old Delany is a native of South Orange, N.J. He received his undergraduate degree in political science from the University of North Carolina in 1970 and juris doctorate degree from the University of North Carolina School of Law in 1973. At UNC, Delany was a three year member of the varsity basketball team, serving as tri captain in 1970. As a Tar Heel, Delany twice participated in NCAA Final Four competition.

After earning his law degree, Delany served as counsel for the North Carolina Senate Judiciary Committee from 1973 to 1974, and was staff attorney for the North Carolina Justice Department from 1974 to 1975.

Delany's distinguished career in administering intercollegiate athletics began at the NCAA where he was employed as an enforcement representative from 1975-79. For the next decade, he served as commissioner of the Ohio Valley Conference, where he oversaw the growth and enhancement of OVC athletic programs for men and women.

Active in the community, Delany has coached several youth teams and has been associated with Special Olympics and YMCA endeavors at various times.

Delany and his wife, Catherine "Kitty" Fisher Delany, also an attorney, have two sons, Newman, 21 years old and James Chancellor, 18 years old, who both attend the University of North Carolina. The Delanys reside in Hinsdale, Ill.
February 11, 2011