Faculty image Jack Weidenbach Director of Business Operations, Athletic Director University Administration
Biography/Memoir

 

The Regents of the University of Michigan gratefully acknowledge the dedication and service of Jack Weidenbach as he concludes a 28-year career at the University.

Jack first came to the University in 1966 and for 22 years held an impressive array of positions, all of which were critical to the University's daily operation and the development of its physical plant. From his initial appointment as manager of Willow Run Airport, he advanced to director of plant extension (1968), director of physical properties (1971), and finally to director of business operations (1977). In the latter position, he oversaw the building and maintenance of the University's physical plant and the related areas of purchasing, public safety, and occupational safety and environmental health.

A quiet, self-effacing man, Jack directed the explosive growth of the campus through some of the most turbulent periods in the University's history while never missing a step-a gentle giant to be sure.

And then in June of 1988, at a time when he could have been looking ahead to a quiet life of retirement, Jack was instead thrust into the spotlight of intercollegiate athletics when he assumed the post of associate athletic director. Jack's accomplishments in that post and in his subsequent positions as interim director (1990), then director (1991) of athletics have had a phenomenal impact on both the programs and the physical facilities of the athletic department. He has worked tirelessly to improve academic support programs for student athletes and to strengthen women's intercollegiate athletics to the point where true equal opportunity is now within reach. By not only maintaining, but enhancing the tradition of Michigan athletics, Jack proved to be a worthy successor to his illustrious predecessors. Under his stewardship, the athletic program achieved new heights of excellence and national recognition in many areas.

Few people have had as broad an impact on the University as has Jack Weidenbach. In recognition of his distinguished contributions to the University, to the athletic department, and to the lives of its faculty, staff, and students, the Regents now name John P. (Jack) Weidenbach Director Emeritus of Athletics.

Regents' Resolution, February 1994, page 212

 

 
Reflections/Stories
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