Chambana Sun

Mike Bass, a former University of Illinois system administrator and notable football player, passed away on March 17. Bass was recognized for his achievements both on the field and in his administrative roles at the university.

Bass had an impressive career with the Fighting Illini football team, concluding in 1982 as Illinois's all-time leading scorer with 212 points. Known as the "Barefoot kicker," he led the team in scoring from 1980 to 1982. He set season and career field goal records by making 24 out of 28 field goals in 1982 and a total of 41 during his three-year tenure. His performance included tying a single-game record by making five field goals, including a game-winning 46-yarder against Wisconsin in a close victory.

In 1982, Bass was named team captain when the Illini participated in the Liberty Bowl, marking their first bowl appearance since the Rose Bowl in 1964. That year, he earned First-Team All-Big Ten honors and Second-Team All-America recognition. In recognition of his contributions to Illinois football, he was named to the Illinois Football All-Century Team in 1990.

After retiring from sports, Bass dedicated two decades to serving at the University of Illinois System until May 2022. He held various leadership positions such as Special Advisor to the President and Deputy Comptroller, where he focused on procurement diversity and legislative initiatives.

His roles within the Office of Business and Financial Services spanned over eighteen years. Positions included Assistant Vice President for External Affairs, Executive Assistant Vice President for Operations and External Relations, Senior Associate Vice President for Capital Programs and Real Estate Services, among others. Briefly, he also acted as Interim Executive Director designate for Governmental Relations.

Before joining the university system administration, Bass spent fifteen years working in Springfield's Bureau of Budgeting roles such as Budget Director for Public Aid Department and Appropriations Director for Senate Majority Staff.

Bass's connection with the University of Illinois extended beyond his professional career; he earned both his Bachelor's degree in Political Science and MBA from its Urbana-Champaign campus.