James is currently pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Southern California. He plans to become a professor to teach and conduct research, or potentially work with the Congressional Research Services (CRS) and provide advise to Congress in crafting child welfare policy bills. He graduated from the University of South Carolina Magna Cum Laude and from Lancaster High School with highest honors.
James is active with California Youth Connection in Los Angeles, and is an alumnus of GOALL (Go Out and Learn Life), a statewide youth advisory board. While with GOALL, he attended many conferences and even presented as a keynote speaker. As an intern with Congress, he was able to experience the legislative process first hand and contribute by providing insightful information about Child Welfare Policy and completing tasks. He also represented South Carolina in the Annual National Youth in Transition Database (NYTD) conference. He has also interned with Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI) and is a current Young Adult Training and Technical Assistance Network (YATTA) member.
James was removed from the care of his biological parents at the age of one. At the age of 5, he was adopted. After a couple months, his adoptive father became physically and verbally abusive, resulting in James running away from home, and being charged with “incorrigibility.” He was detained by the Department of Justice for approximately 1 year, and eventually the court investigation resulted in charges of abuse and neglect against his adoptive parents. The adoption was terminated at the age of twelve. He then experienced seven foster homes and four group homes. James is currently pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Southern California. He plans to become a professor to teach and conduct research, or potentially work with the Congressional Research Services (CRS) and provide advise to Congress in crafting child welfare policy bills. He graduated from the University of South Carolina Magna Cum Laude. James is active with CYC- Los Angeles, is an alumni of GOALL (Go Out and Learn Life), interned with Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI) and is a current Young Adult Training and Technical Assistance Network (YATTA) member.
