James leads our finance committee and brings expertise in budget management and endowment stewardship. With a distinguished career spanning three decades in financial planning and wealth management, James has developed a reputation for strategic thinking and fiscal responsibility. He currently serves as Chief Financial Officer for a regional nonprofit organization, where he oversees an annual budget of $50 million and manages complex financial operations. James joined the Meridian board six years ago and has since played a pivotal role in strengthening the school's financial position.
Under his leadership, the finance committee has implemented rigorous budget processes, enhanced financial reporting systems, and developed multi-year financial projections that support strategic planning. James holds a master's degree in Finance from Columbia University and is a Certified Public Accountant. His expertise in endowment management has been particularly valuable, as he has helped grow Meridian's endowment through prudent investment strategies and donor cultivation. James is deeply committed to ensuring that Meridian maintains affordable tuition while also compensating faculty and staff competitively.
He has championed efforts to increase financial aid funding, recognizing that economic diversity strengthens the school community. James believes that financial transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining stakeholder trust. Outside of his board service, James enjoys mentoring young finance professionals and serving on the investment committee of his church. He and his wife have three children, two of whom are Meridian alumni.
