John Coumbe-Lilley recognized for service to UIC Athletics
Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition clinical professor John E. Coumbe-Lilley was recently recognized by UIC Athletics for serving as interim director of intercollegiate athletics in fall 2024. Presented with a framed jersey, signed basketball and words of gratitude from current director of athletics Andrea Williams, Coumbe-Lilley was formally acknowledged at a surprise gathering at Flames Athletic Center for shepherding the program through a moment of transition.
“It was a lot of commitment; a lot of decisions had to be made on behalf of the university,” said Coumbe-Lilley. “I had so much help from the chancellor’s office and everyone in athletics. We were able to achieve a lot of goals and prepare a positive pathway for Andrea and of course for our student athletes.”
Once his interim post had run its course, Coumbe-Lilley handed over the reins to the program and dove back into his regular faculty work. There was never any formal goodbye, and he supported the program from a distance throughout the remainder of 2024 and into 2025. When Williams asked Coumbe-Lilley to join her for a coffee last week, he didn’t suspect anything more than a social catch-up.
“When Andrea brought me over to FAC, I was absolutely shocked. It really meant something big to be acknowledged like that.”
Under Coumbe-Lilley's leadership, UIC Athletics was set up for continued success, but he credits his accomplishments to the collaborative spirit within the program.
“If you do anything good in life, it's typically done with other people.”