William R. Greiner (2010) - Dr. and Mrs. Edmond J. Gicewicz Family UB Athletics Hall of Fame Inductees

William R. Greiner

The most dedicated and supportive fan that the university's athletic teams have ever had, Professor Greiner and his wife, Carol, could be seen at most every UB sporting event.
He was the driving force behind UB's climb from NCAA Division III to Division I-AA when the SUNY system, in 1986, approved the university's request made by his predecessor, Steven Sample.
UB's 1st provost, Professor Greiner was appointed president in 1991 and 2 years later, the "Run to Division I" culminated with the Bulls playing their 1st football game at that level in more than 20 years.
Under his leadership, UB announced in 1995 that it would be heading to Division I-A and would be joining the Mid-American Conference in 1999.
The excitement created by UB's basketball team in its 2004-2005 run into post-season play, along with the 2008 football team, which emerged as MAC Champions and participated in the International Bowl, underscored his vision of the positive impact a successful Division I program could have on the university and the community.