Discussion · House of Representatives
Earl L. "Buddy" Carter Republican
“I want to congratulate my friend Jim Cole on his retirement as Mercer University's athletics director. He spent 16 years leading the school's sports programs and helping student-athletes succeed.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my good friend and former Georgia House of Representatives colleague, Mr. Jim Cole of Mercer University, on his recent retirement. Mr. Cole started his college career as a student-athlete at Mercer, then later returned to serve in administration after serving in the Georgia State House of Representatives. Jim served as Mercer University’s athletics director, where he dedicated 16 years to the betterment of student-athletes. Under Jim’s tenure, the Mercer Bears upset Duke in the 2014 NCAA men’s basketball tournament. From 2010 to 2026, they won 51 conference championships in numerous sports. Jim’s dedicated efforts ensured that students could succeed on and off the field through enhancing athletic facilities, increasing game day programming, and finding pathways for students to excel in the classroom. As Jim moves into the next chapter of his life, I would like to thank him for his long-term commitment to Mercer University. I am grateful for his selfless leadership and his dedication to the Macon community.”
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my good friend and former Georgia House of Representatives colleague, Mr. Jim Cole of Mercer University, on his recent retirement. Mr. Cole started his college career as a student-athlete at Mercer, then later returned to serve in administration after serving in the Georgia State House of Representatives. Jim served as Mercer University’s athletics director, where he dedicated 16 years to the betterment of student-athletes. Under Jim’s tenure, the Mercer Bears upset Duke in the 2014 NCAA men’s basketball tournament. From 2010 to 2026, they won 51 conference championships in numerous sports. Jim’s dedicated efforts ensured that students could succeed on and off the field through enhancing athletic facilities, increasing game day programming, and finding pathways for students to excel in the classroom. As Jim moves into the next chapter of his life, I would like to thank him for his long-term commitment to Mercer University. I am grateful for his selfless leadership and his dedication to the Macon community.