He completed his doctoral work at Clemson University with a focus on community recreation management. James has been involved in various facets of the industry including sports officiating, adventure racing events, natural resource management, special event tourism, Olympic development, and leisure skills instruction. In his unobligated time, James enjoys mountain biking, fly fishing, kayaking, and skiing. He also enjoys playing the drums for various bands and dabbling in documentary film production. James is in his 6th year as a faculty member at UNC.