Jim is from Vestavia Hills, Alabama. He comes from a family with deep ties to service; his grandfather served on the first board of Haggai International in 1962 and later as chairman from 1965 to 1969.

Jim attended Auburn University, where he earned a B.S. in Psychology.

Jim’s grandfather passed away when Jim was twelve. After graduating college, Jim wanted to understand more about the man who shaped so much of his family’s legacy. That search led him to Dr. John Edmund Haggai. Jim called Dr. Haggai hoping to learn more about his grandfather. Thankfully, Dr. Haggai not only agreed to meet—he welcomed an ongoing relationship. Jim and Dr. Haggai met many times, and as Dr. Haggai had a way of doing, he soon pulled Jim deeper into the mission of Haggai International. Jim was eventually invited to join the Board of Trustees, later served as Board Treasurer, and for many years has led the Investment Committee, where he continues to serve today.

Jim and his wife, Melanie, own an investment firm with a specialty in 401(k) plans. They are also involved in investment technology, building tools that help employers and employees navigate retirement plans with more clarity. Their 401(k) work has grown into a form of outreach, as people often share their financial and personal struggles during even brief conversations.

Jim and Melanie have five children, four of whom are still in high school. Their family is active at Church of the Highlands.