Pacers Exec and Civic Leader Jim Morris Passes Away at 81

James "Jim" Morris, a prominent Indiana business and civic leader, has passed away at the age of 81. Morris was widely recognized for his extensive contributions to the development of central Indiana over the past six decades. He played key roles in initiatives such as the creation of Unigov and Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), as well as the development of Market Square Arena. His career included serving as chief of staff for then-Mayor Richard Lugar, president of Lilly Endowment Inc., and CEO of Indianapolis Water Co./IWC Resources.

Morris also made significant contributions on a global scale, serving as executive director of the United Nations World Food Programme from 2002 to 2007. His leadership roles extended to several influential organizations, including the Executive Board of UNICEF, the National Advisory Board for the Boy Scouts of America, the United States Olympic Committee, Riley Children's Foundation, the American Red Cross, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway board of directors. Morris received numerous accolades, including 17 honorary doctorate degrees, the Sachem Award from Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb, and the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Barack Obama.

In his later years, Morris joined Pacers Sports & Entertainment, where he served as president and later vice chairman. The Pacers organization described him as a "lifelong friend, mentor, and the ultimate fan." His contributions to the Indiana community and beyond were widely recognized, and his legacy is marked by his dedication to both local and global humanitarian efforts.