• Originally from Chicago, he came to the Valley in 1980 as part of the team that opened South Mountain Community College in Phoenix.
• Since 1969, he has served in various administrative roles in higher education at Illinois State University, Elgin Community College, and South Mountain Community College, where he retired in 2003.  He continues to serve as an adjunct faculty member at SMCC.
• A graduate from Illinois State University with a BS degree in sociology and a MS degree in guidance and counseling, Jim earned a doctorate degree in higher education administration from Arizona State University in 1988.
• A Kiwanian since 1975, he held many leadership roles including Governor, Southwest District Kiwanis in 2003 and is a member of the Dobson Ranch club.
• He retired from the U.S. Naval Reserve as a Lt. Cdr. in naval intelligence.
• A graduate of the Kino Institute of Theological Studies, Jim was ordained a Deacon in the Catholic Diocese of Phoenix in November, 2006 and serves in prison ministry, hospital ministry, and at Resurrection Parish, Tempe.
• Over the years he has spoken at many state and national groups and he strives to bring a message of hope and inspiration to his audience.
• Involvement in the Literacy Coaching program is another example of bringing hope for those students in need.
• Susan and Jim have been married since 1968 and have a son, Jeff, who is married and lives in Dallas with his wife, Sally, and their son, Jackson Lee.