John James

John James, Ed.D., is a Professor of Educational Leadership at Saint Louis University's School of Education. He holds an Ed.D. from the University of Nebraska and an M.A. from the University of Saint Thomas. His career spans over three decades in Catholic education, including roles as Program Director for the Institute for Catholic Education and former President of Saint Albert Catholic Schools.

• Education:
• Ed.D., Educational Administration, University of Nebraska (2001)
• M.A., Secondary Education, University of Saint Thomas (1994)
• B.A., Biochemistry & Religious Studies, Rice University (1989)

His research focuses on Catholic school administration, operational vitality, mission effectiveness, and leadership dynamics. He has authored over 50 publications, including books on Catholic education governance and adaptive leadership. Notable works include Catholic school identity and mission: A sourcebook for practitioners (2024) and Planning for growth and retrenchment: Catholic education in Saint Louis (2013).

Dr. James has presented globally on topics such as crisis leadership during the pandemic, governance structures, and faith formation. He serves as editor of the Journal of Catholic Education and chairs the Academic Affairs Committee at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary.

• Awards: Reichenbach Graduate Scholarship, Phi Delta Kappa Honor Society
• Grants: Saint Louis University Spark Grant (2018)

His professional service includes strategic planning for dioceses nationwide, board development consulting, and leadership coaching for Catholic schools. He has advised institutions like the Archdiocese of Saint Louis and Sacred Heart Greenwich.