James Bialek

James Bialek was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in the fall of 2025. He was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 2007.

Bialek earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Davis & Elkins College in 1974 and a Master of Science degree in physical education from West Virginia University. While pursuing his graduate degree, he served as a graduate teaching assistant and as an assistant baseball coach at WVU from 1975 to 1977.

Following graduation, Bialek served as equipment manager for WVU Athletics before returning to Davis & Elkins College as associate director of admissions and assistant baseball coach. In 1980, he transitioned to the insurance industry, first as an agent for New York Life Insurance, then as the owner and operator of the Bialek Insurance Agency, with locations in Elkins and Belington, W.Va.

Throughout his career, Bialek maintained strong connections to his alma maters and the community. He served on the WVU School of Physical Education's Visiting Committee and was a member of the Davis & Elkins College Athletic Hall of Fame Selection Committee. His community involvement included leadership roles in the Kiwanis Club, where he served as president and received the West Virginia Outstanding Presidents Award in 1991. He also chaired the Davis & Elkins College Scholarship Fund Drive and served on various boards including the Randolph County Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Bialek's honors included the Davis and Elkins College Tower Award, 1999 Outstanding Alumnus of the Year, and the WVU School of Physical Education Visiting Committee Crystal Service Award. In 2017, he was inducted into the Davis & Elkins College Athletic Hall of Fame.