James McDonald

Growing up in rural Mississippi in the 1970s, I was constantly reminded of the importance of service and giving back. This message was reinforced most often by my grandmother who was given the responsibility of raising me.  Her edict was “get an education, be of service to others, stay away from drugs, and you can be anything you want in life.” As I’ve gotten older, I have fully realized the truth and value of her statements. I understand that many people, working as agents of change, have paved the way for others and I am a direct beneficiary of their investments. After graduating from Alcorn State University whose motto is “Where Knowledge and Character Matter,” I set out on my path to continue my grandparent’s legacy of service to others. Nearly three decades later, I currently serve as the Assistant Regional Administrator/Director, Mission Support Division for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Region 6. As the Senior Resource Official and Senior Information Officer, I am broadly responsible for leadership and oversight of the Region’s administrative management functions. I also serve as Co-Chair of EPA’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility (DEIA) Implementation Team.

‍

It has been said to whom much is given, much will be required. With over 27 years of service at the local, state, and federal levels, including working on Capitol Hill, I have been blessed with many opportunities to serve and lead as a member of the federal government's senior executive service.  As a public servant, I am dedicated to giving back and inspiring others. Public service has been the most rewarding way for me to contribute to society, and to coach and mentor our next generation of leaders.  This is an area where real change can happen and where you can touch the lives of so many people. Public service has provided me the opportunity to become a catalyst for change and contribute to changes that can improve the quality of life of others.

‍