BOWLING GREEN, Ohio – After nearly three decades of dedicated service to Bowling Green State University, Jim Elsasser, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Internal Affairs, has announced his retirement, effective June 30.

Elsasser, a fixture in BGSU Athletics since 1995, has played a critical role in the department's growth, overseeing countless projects and operational responsibilities. In his current role, Elsasser provides leadership and oversight for the administration of four varsity sports—ice hockey, men's and women's golf and cross country & track and field —along with the athletic equipment operations, the Stroh Center and Slater Family Ice Arena. He also directs the Athletic Financial Affairs, managing the department's $30 million annual enterprise.

"Jim has faithfully served the Bowling Green community during three exciting decades of Falcon sports history," said Vice President for Athletics Strategy Derek van der Merwe. "During his tenure, he has worked for seven different directors of athletics. His knowledge, commitment, and love for this university and its people are hard to match. I have truly valued his counsel and leadership over these last few years, and I am happy that he will remain a member of this community and a fan of the Orange and Brown."
 
"Since I stepped on campus in 1987 as a student, BGSU became my home," said Elsasser. "I've had an amazing career working with thousands of student-athletes, hundreds of coaches and administrators and seven Athletic Directors. A special thanks to Ron Zwierlein who hired a young wide-eyed athletic administrator in 1995 to begin my career.  I would also like thank my long-time mentors in this field, Ken Kavanagh and the late Ken Schoeni. They helped me learn the industry and shared a wealth of knowledge in all athletic operations.  I appreciate each of the Athletic Directors over the years who helped me grow professionally during my tenure at BGSU. I will cherish all the memories of my time at BGSU. I look forward to the next chapter and what retirement brings. Ay Ziggy!"

Throughout his tenure, Elsasser has overseen capital projects totaling tens of millions of dollars, including the construction of the $30 million Stroh Center, opened in 2011, and the $12 million Sebo Athletic Center, opened in 2007. Most recently, he played a key role in enhancements to the Slater Family Ice Arena, which includes the Green, Remeis and Green Mezzanine project, which was completed last fall. He also leads the scheduling and operations for all athletic facilities and manages all aspects of BGSU's game operations.

Beyond athletics, Elsasser serves as a vital campus liaison, working closely with BGSU Dining, Planning, Construction and Campus Operations, Risk Management, and Campus Safety.

In 2012, Elsasser was honored with the prestigious Ferrari Award, the highest honor bestowed upon an Administrative Staff member at BGSU, recognizing innovation, initiative, and excellence in service.

A native of Elyria, Ohio, Elsasser is a two-time BGSU graduate, earning a bachelor's degree in sport management in 1991 and a master's degree in sport administration in 1993. He and his wife, Sara ('91), reside in Bowling Green. Their children, Rebecca ('20) and Isaac ('23 & '24), are both proud BGSU alumni.