Seasons of the Journey - by Zelma Lloyd Frank (Paperback)

About the Book

Dr. Frank was the only alumnus of Lincoln University to become president of the institution, the first full-time commissioner of SWAC and the only African American to become president of the NCAA.

Book Synopsis

This is a compelling biography about the trailblazer, leader, and legend in Higher Education and Intercollegiate Athletics who was the only African American and first college president to become president of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), only alumnus to become President of Lincoln University in Missouri, first full-time commissioner of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), first Vice President and first Dean of Students at Medgar Evers College, City University of New York. Written by his wife of sixty years, this biography is a moving and inspiring journey that will appeal to any reader. This is a "Must Read!"

Throughout the biography, the author has well documented the legacies that Dr. Frank transmitted to the world throughout his life - legacies that exemplify integrity, educational excellence, strong work ethics, athletic endeavor, unselfishness, and family values. Dr. Frank held many prominent positions. His leadership skills and accomplishments were exemplary and indelible. He touched the lives of many. He was thoroughly recognized throughout life for his impact. He had an impactful and historical influence on many universities and organizations as evidenced through many of his honors, a few of which follow:

A room in the NCAA national headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana bears his name. One building and one wing of a second building on the Lincoln University (MO) campus are named in his honor. The SWAC headquarters building in Birmingham, Alabama also carries the label, Dr. James Frank.

Review Quotes

In many ways, the overriding issues or problems in athletics are not educational, physical, or economic, but more moral than anything else. It is about what we do right for our student-athletes and fellow human beings.

Dr. James Frank, Only Black NCAA President

Remarks made at NCAA National Convention in San Diego, California, 1982

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 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.

Dr. Mark A. Emmert, NCAA President

Dr. Frank's impact and legacy with the NCAA and the Southwestern Athletic Conference are truly remarkable. He was a true pioneer in the field of collegiate athletics and his vision and legacy continue to positively impact countless student-athletes both past and present. The Southwestern Athletic Conference will forever be indebted to Dr. Frank and his contributions to the SWAC. We will continue to strive daily to embody the core principles of his amazing leadership.

Dr. Charles McClelland, SWAC Commissioner