Regarded as one of the most influential leaders in the NJCAA, George E. Killian served as the first executive director of the association. In 1954, Killian embarked on his career in athletics at Erie Community College (NY), serving as the athletic director and head men's basketball coach.  Killian was elected president of the NJCAA in 1967 and two years later was selected as the first executive director – a position he held until 2004. 

Under his leadership and vision, the NJCAA became the first national collegiate athletic organization to add women's athletics in 1975. The NAIA and NCAA followed shortly after, adding women's athletics in 1980 and 1981, respectively. Upon retiring from the NJCAA in 2004, the association commissioned the George E. Killian Award of Excellence in 2006 to honor his dedication and service to two-year college athletics. The award is given out annually to NJCAA Board of Regents members that display the ideals of voluntarism, achievement, service, leadership, and excellence.

Among an extensive list of awards and accomplishments, some include; President of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame from 1996-2004, President of the International University Sports Federation (FISU) from 1999-2011, 1987 NJCAA Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame, 1988 NJCAA Basketball Hall of Fame, and U.S. Olympic Administrative Committee.