Mcconnell Named Chair of UB Department of Geography

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- James E. McConnell, Ph.D., professor of geography and director of the Canada-U.S. Trade Center at the University at Buffalo, has been named chair of the university's Department of Geography for a three-year term.

A member of the department since 1968, McConnell previously served as chair from 1983-88.

He will continue to direct the Canada-U.S. Trade Center, which has conducted research on the economies of North America and has provided trade-related assistance to small manufacturing establishments within the Niagara region. He has served as director since the center's inception in 1988.

McConnell's research and teaching are focused on international trade and industry policy, regional economic development and corporate decision-making.

He received the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1976.

In addition, he has served on the board of directors of the Buffalo World Trade Association, and has held positions on the advisory board of the Erie County Industrial Development Agency's Export Assistance Program and the Upstate New York District Export Council.

A graduate of Slippery Rock State College, he earned a master's degree from Miami University of Ohio and a doctorate at Ohio State University.

He lives in Williamsville.