Grinnell College Athletics

James A. Lowry '61 contributed to the success of three Grinnell sports and became the first Pioneer in 30 years to earn nine varsity letters. As a sophomore Lowry began to make his name during the football season. He gained 426 yards on the ground and scored a team-high eight touchdowns from his fullback position. With 48 points, the Chicago native led the squad in scoring and earned all-conference honors. Jim was also a starter on the basketball team, and in baseball he led the team in hitting with a .382 average. During his junior year Lowry was a marked man but he helped pave the way for leading rusher John Hartung '61. Nevertheless Lowry caught the league coaches' eyes and again was named honorable mention all-conference. He started on the basketball team averaging 10.6 points per game. In baseball he posted solid numbers hitting .311 and led the team in doubles. As a senior Lowry won the most valuable back award. He gained 396 yards, for a 4.4 yards per carry average, and scored 29 points. Jim captained the basketball team and averaged 11.5 points and eight rebounds per game. President of honor G club, Jim was given the David Theophilus Award for outstanding athlete in more than one sport. Lowry received a master's degree from the University of Pittsburgh. He is C.E.O. of J.H. Lowry and Associates in Chicago and is a world-renowned authority on minority business development.  His clients have included American Express, Time Inc., and Pepsi. Lowry is a member of the Grinnell board of trustees.