By Neil Doyle and AP

NORMAL – Former Illinois State University President Gene Budig died Tuesday. He was 81.

Budig, the 12th president of ISU, was named acting president in 1973 and appointed to the presidency later that year. During his time as president, he won board approval for a number of new academic degree programs including a master’s program in business administration, master’s programs in art and theatre, and four doctorate programs in the arts.

“President Budig came to lead during turbulent times and worked to build bridges and keep Illinois State moving forward,” said ISU President Larry Dietz in a news release. “Under his leadership, the University expanded degree offerings in the arts and business. His mark on the University will long be remembered. I was fortunate to meet him a few years back and will always appreciate his contributions to the University and value his friendship.”

Budig arrived at ISU in 1972 as a vice president, dean, and professor of educational administration. He arrived from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he served as a vice chairman and director of public affairs.

Budig succeeded Bobby Brown as American League president in 1994 and augmented his staff with Larry Doby, the first Black player in the AL. Budig held the job until baseball owners abolished league presidents under a reorganization urged by former Commissioner Bud Selig in 2000.

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]