Category: Builder
Institution: Loyalist College
Inducted: 2023

With over 30 years of OCAA knowledge and experience, Jim Buck is a reliable sounding board for members from across the province. Jim makes a point of reaching out to new Athletic Directors to welcome them to the Association and offer support, mentoring several as well as going above and beyond to ensure Jim's own staff gain as much experience within the league as they can.

Jim has served on countless OCAA and CCAA committees, including as the OCAA VP Finance during a particularly challenging time. Jim's leadership and commitment to navigating the Association back to a solid foundation was paramount. Jim is a passionate advocate for the student-athlete experience within the OCAA and is a champion of a quality student-athlete experience no matter the size of the institution. Jim's influence on student-athlete experience, development and well-being can be felt in many OCAA policies including those surrounding athletic therapy coverage, concussion management, eligibility requirements and marketing.

At Loyalist College, Jim has played a key role in setting up its Athletics Hall of Fame, original athletics scholarship and newly launched full scholarship program (2022-23 season), the revitalization of outdoor athletics facilities on campus (including a brand-new grass pitch, bleachers, covered benches and scoreboard), new change rooms, as well as athletic therapy services and new athletic therapy space on campus. Developing and securing an Athletics Academic Support Mentor for varsity athletes at Loyalist, a student-first mindset and importance of education has been a cornerstone of Jim's career. On average, Loyalist boasts a 75 per cent average among athletes and consistently has one the highest percentage of OCAA Academic All-Stars in the province.

Jim has always been a strong advocate for women in sport and goes the extra mile to actively make space for female student-athletes, coaches and staff to take on leadership roles. With Jim's support and guidance, both female staff members have become OCAA Senior Convenors and active members within the association. Jim is committed to expanding coaching staffs to include strong female leaders and has made a conscious effort to recruit talented females to head coaching positions.