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Tuesday, April 1, 2025

New Book Tells the Story of Dr. James Frank, the Only African American President of the NCAA

Dr. James Frank biography

NationwideSeasons of the Journey: The Biography of Dr. James Frank is a must-read biography about Dr. James Frank, an African American leader, trailblazer, and legend who earned national recognition. He was the only African American to be president of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the only alumnus to become president of his alma mater, Lincoln University in Missouri, the first dean of students and vice president of Medgar Evers College of the City University of New York, and the first full-time commissioner of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).

The newly released book details Dr. James Frank’s indelible and powerful influence in each of his leadership positions. Written by his wife of sixty years, Seasons of the Journey: The Biography of Dr. James Frank is a moving and inspiring journey that will appeal to any reader. Dr. Zelma Lloyd Frank takes the reader on a fascinating journey through triumphs and defeats, historical and emotional moments, marriage and family, dynamic recognitions, and historical connections as they unfolded during those times. More than just a presentation of facts, this is a story of epic proportions – an intriguing and incredible real-life journey!

During his tenure as president of the NCAA, Dr. Mark A. Emmert, wrote in the Foreword, “There are many who have played college basketball, who have served our nation in uniform, who have earned a doctorate, have become leaders within their chosen profession, and have been model husbands and fathers. It is, however, extraordinarily rare to find someone who has achieved each of those accomplishments — and indeed many more — in a single lifetime. This story deserves our attention because of that rarity, because James Frank did all those things, and we should all know his story and learn from his example.”

The author, Dr. Zelma Lloyd Frank, has well-documented the legacies that Dr. James Frank transmitted to the world throughout his life – legacies that exemplify integrity, educational excellence, strong work ethics, athletic endeavor, unselfishness, and family values. Dr. James Frank had an impactful and historical influence on many universities and organizations as evidenced by his numerous honors; including a room which bears his name, in the NCAA national headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana. Dr. Frank’s name also appears on a building and the wing of a second building on the Lincoln University campus, and the SWAC headquarters building in Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. James Frank was a lifetime member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., NAACP, and the Lincoln University Alumni Association.

RETAIL CUSTOMERS: Click on the link DrJamesFrank.com for more information and to purchase online. Books are also available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or wherever books are sold.

For interviews, bookings, or further information, send an email to jamezellpress@gmail.com