Robert K. "Bob" Faris
Born in 1918 in Fremont, Nebraska. As a standout high school athlete at Fremont High School, he was offered a football scholarship to George Washington University in 1935. But he became star player for the GW basketball team, becoming the first GW basketball player to be named an All-American in 1939. Faris returned to his alma mater in 1955 as athletic director where he remained, until he retired in 1982. His leadership of the athletic department included the 1976 opening of the Smith Center.
Bob was associated with GW athletics for more than 45 years. A triple-sport athlete in basketball, football and tennis, his accomplishments weremagnified during his tenure as coach and athletic director in his guidance of the development of sports at the University.