Jeanne Calamar begins role as Big 8 Commissioner

SACRAMENTO - The Big 8 is pleased to announce the appointment of Jeanne Calamar as its third full-time Commissioner. Jeanne, a foundational member of the Big 8, officially assumed her new role on June 1, 2024. She succeeds Nick Stavrianoudakis, who served as interim Commissioner for the 2023-2024 season following Mike Liddell’s retirement at the end of 2023. Mike Liddell was the Commissioner for 15 years.

Jeanne Calamar brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new position. She was previously with Cosumnes River College (CRC) for an impressive 34 years, including 29 years as the Assistant Athletic Director. Jeanne was heavily involved with the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA), serving on the Management Council for 12 years across two different sports and participating in multiple 3C2A board committees. Within the Big 8, Jeanne has been a member of nearly every committee and played a pivotal role as the point person for the Constitution Committee.

Jeanne’s commitment to community college women’s athletics traces back to her days as a basketball player at Santa Barbara City College. At CRC, she made history as the first Women’s Basketball Head Coach, a position she held for 12 years. In addition to her role as Assistant Athletic Director, Jeanne was also a Professor of Adapted and Physical Education until her retirement from CRC.

Quotes from 3C2A Members on Jeanne Calamar’s Appointment
“Jeanne Calamar is an excellent choice as the next Commissioner of the Big 8. Jeanne brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to student-athletes to the position. The entire 3C2A will benefit from Jeanne’s extensive experience and I look forward to working with her once again.” - Jennifer Cardone, 3C2A Executive Director

“Jeanne Calamar’s appointment as the new Big 8 Commissioner marks a significant milestone for our conference. Her extensive experience, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to the growth and integrity of collegiate athletics make her the perfect fit for this role. We are confident that under her guidance, the Big 8 will reach new heights of excellence and continue to foster a thriving environment for our student-athletes and member institutions.” - Tony Espinoza, San Joaquin Delta College, Director of Athletics

“I am so excited to have Jeanne Calamar as the new Big 8 Commissioner. She brings so much experience with her. Jeanne is also one of the most knowledgeable people on our 3C2A Constitution. She will do a great job. I am glad to know that we are able to continue to use her expertise.” - Kanoe Bandy, Taft Athletic Director., Former Chair of the 3C2A Management Council, and 2024 L. William Miller Award by NATYCAA

“There is no person that is more knowledgeable of the 3C2A and big 8 or cares more about our student-athletes than Jeanne Calamar. The Big 8 is lucky to have her and I look forward to seeing what she will accomplish as our commissioner.” - Collin Pregliasco, Cosumnes River College, Dean of Kinesiology, Health, & Athletics/Athletic Director

(David Silverstein, Big 8 Conference)