James M. Abraham, BSEE '43 and BSIE '48. Brigadier General James Abraham retired in 1982 from the United States Army after a stellar career of service that spanned 40 years. A registered professional engineer, he currently is active in engineering and management consulting activities. He has recently published a book and is working on two more. In addition to his bachelor of science degrees in both Electrical and Industrial Engineering from Ohio University, he also graduated from the Army Command and General Staff College and the Army War College. He received his first commission from General George Patton. Abraham is credited for developing innovative concepts in ROTC instruction at Ohio University that have been implemented at other universities nationwide. He holds several patents for medium pressure systems and developed several key programs for the U.S. Army.
As a civilian, he has served in industry, education and government. Jim was instrumental in developing a novel method of municipal financing for Ohio’s cities. He has received numerous accolades including Ohio Society Professional Engineers Distinguished Award, induction into the Ohio National Guard Hall of Fame, the European Theater of Operations Medal with Four bronze stars and having the Gahanna Ohio Municipal building named in his honor. Jim fondly recalls “being part of a team of four engineering students who build the first radio station on campus out of parts and a couple of hundred dollars.” He is a member of the Russ College Board of Visitors.