James works at the intersection of strategy, design, policy, and technology. As Special Advisor to the President, James works to advance U-M’s Vision 2034, focusing on lifelong learning, AI and education, online education, alternative credentials, and workforce development.
As the Founding Executive Director of the Center for Academic Innovation (CAI) and Associate Vice Provost for Academic Innovation, James has helped establish U-M as a global leader in academic innovation. Under his leadership, CAI drives programs like Michigan Online, U-M’s hub for global, lifelong learning. CAI collaborates across campus and around the world to create equitable, lifelong educational opportunities for learners everywhere.
James serves as an advisor for companies like Coursera, 2U, and Noodle, as well as several national committees focused on AI in education and workforce development. Prior to U-M, James co-founded the global education practice at a leading consulting firm, and has advised over 75 institutions across 15 countries.