WASHINGTON - American University Athletics mourns the passing of Jim "Beanie" Howell '57, a trailblazer, educator, and proud alumnus whose impact on the Eagles' program and the game of basketball spans generations.

Howell was a member of the groundbreaking teams under head coach David Carrasco that helped desegregate college basketball in Washington, D.C. and the Mason-Dixon Conference in the late 1950s. As one of the first Black student-athletes to represent American, he played a key role in teams that broke barriers and paved the way for those who followed.

Following his time at American, Howell continued to make history as one of the first African American officials in major college basketball, including the Atlantic Coast Conference, and became the first to referee an NCAA men's basketball championship game in 1973. He went on to work multiple NCAA Final Fours and title games, earning respect across the sport.

While his officiating career reached the highest levels, Howell always considered his life's work to be in education. He dedicated 31 years to D.C. Public Schools as a teacher, coach, and principal, impacting countless students and taking great pride in serving his community.

We honor Beanie's legacy of leadership, courage, and service, and extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his life.

James Monroe Howell, Jr., April 11, 1939 - April 1, 2026