The Office of the Vice President for Business and Finance was established in 1958 with John F. Zeller serving in the role. Prior to the creation of the vice presidency, Zeller served as assistant to the president. As assistant to the president, his position included the role of chief business officer of the University. The role of Vice President for Business and Finance include the continuation of the position of chief business officer but with more specified duties as Bucknell’s principal official for business and financial affairs. The position also took on general council responsiblities and worked with major donations to the university. The position of Vice President for Business and Finance oversaw Food Service, Physical Plant, Purchasing Agent, Registrar, Treasurer and Comptroller, and University Stores. John Zeller was also assistant secretary to the Bucknell Board of Trustees from 1956 to 1988 and he served as a member of the President's Council and President's Staff. In 1971 the title changed to Vice President for Administration and Finance and was again changed in 1982 to Vice President for Business and Fiscal Affairs. John F. Zeller continued to serve in the role throughout the title changes until his retirement in 1986.