Bob Mulcahy, an icon in New Jersey who also served as Rutgers’ athletics director, has passed away at 85.

Mulcahy was a former New Jersey mayor and executive of the state’s commission that oversees the Meadowlands before he led Rutgers athletics for more than a decade, died late Monday night, NJ.com reported.

“The entire Rutgers community is saddened to hear the news of Bob Mulcahy’s passing,” Rutgers athletics director Pat Hobbs said in a statement. “Bob was an extraordinary man who led an extraordinary life. He was one of those rare individuals who balanced being a great husband, father and grandfather, with being a man of public service and a friend to many. I know how much Rutgers meant to Bob and his family and how much his legacy means to the history of our athletic department. His work and leadership were integral to Rutgers athletics being in a position to join the Big Ten. We build on the foundation he laid for us. I extend my deepest condolences to Bob’s family and friends. He left an indelible mark on countless coaches and student-athletes and many more. Bob will truly be missed by all.’’

Mulcahy may be most remembered for hiring Greg Schiano after the 2000 season during his tenure from 1998 through 2008. He was credited with helping transform a downtrodden football program into a perennial bowl contender. Mulcahy helped build the infrastructure around the state university’s marquee sports teams by overhauling the academic-support program and improving the facilities.