Pine Bluff, Ark.- The University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff Department of Athletics mourns the loss of longtime Southwestern Athletic Conference Commissioner Dr. James Frank, who passed away Saturday.

From 1983 until his retirement in 1998, Dr. Frank served as SWAC Commissioner, and later returned to the position as Interim Commissioner in April 2001, where he served for 20 months. During his guidance, the conference evolved to rank among the elite in the nation.

Dr. Frank was one of a few individuals who elevated through the collegiate ranks as a student-athlete, coach, educator, college president, and conference commissioner. 
 
"You cannot say the Southwestern Athletic Conference and not think of Dr. James Frank," said Arkansas-Pine Bluff Athletic Director Melvin Hines II. "He will always be the epitome of what greatness is in our conference, as the Commissioner's Cup is named for him. His impact over several decades of service to our league is immeasurable. I had the honor to interact with Dr. Frank on a number of occasions, and always left in awe of the opportunity to be in his presence, along with his immense knowledge and insight. He will be greatly missed."