James Scott Brannen ’60

James Scott Brannen ’60 died in his home in St. Charles, Illinois, on March 16. He was born August 31, 1938 in Evanston, Illinois, to Helen and Burton Brannen, and on July 23, 1965, married Martha. Before matriculating to Dartmouth in the fall of 1956, Jim grew up in Elgin, Illinois, graduating from the Elgin Academy. At Dartmouth Jim majored in economics, was a member of Alpha Theta and served on the staff of The Dartmouth as the news editor. Following Dartmouth Jim earned his M.B.A. at Northwestern University and subsequently enjoyed a successful career as senior vice president of the First National Bank of Chicago and as president of Security Associates Inc. Active in local politics, he was elected a delegate to the 1970 Illinois Constitutional Convention. Jim, who believed in giving back to his community, was a leader in community affairs and served on numerous boards, including the Cane County board, Geneva school board, Delnor Hospital board, Geneva Jaycees and Geneva Lions Club. Passionate about business development, he was active in the Center for Business Education, Innovation and Development and the Fox Valley Entrepreneurship Center. Jim’s favorite pastimes were cheering for the Chicago Bears and playing golf at the St. Charles Country Club, where he served as president and was on the board for many years. Jim is survived by Martha; children Craig (and wife Dawn), Sarah and Peter (and wife Jennifer); grandchildren George, Hensleigh, Emma and Ivy; and brother George (and wife Pat).


Portfolio

Book cover Original Sin with photo of hands over face
Alumni Books
New titles from Dartmouth writers (July/August 2025)
Woman posing with art sculpture
Inspiration in the Adirondacks
Artist Catherine Ross Haskins ’94 transforms an old grain mill into a vibrant arts hub.
Comeback Story

Alumni first returned to campus for official reunions in 1855.

Illustration of woman in movie theater eating popcorn
Katie Silberman ’09
A screenwriter on storytelling in Hollywood

Recent Issues

July-August 2025

July-August 2025

May-June 2025

May-June 2025

March-April 2025

March-April 2025

January-February 2025

January-February 2025

November-December 2024

November-December 2024

September-October 2024

September-October 2024