James Jones is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. A member of Illinois’ Class of 2019, James recently completed his Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences. While studying at the U of I, James double majored in Political Science (Concentrating in Civic Leadership) & Psychology (Concentrating in Clinical/Community Psychology). 

James was also a Political Science honors student completing a senior honors thesis and receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree with High Distinction. Inspired by the stock fluctuation Nike Inc. experienced after endorsing NFL quarterback turned political activist Colin Kaepernick, James’ senior honors thesis titled “Paying More for Politics: The Extent to Which Political Ideology Influences Spending Choices” examined the extent of influence political considerations have in the context of an economic decision.

During his time at the U of I James was involved in numerous extracurricular activities such as interning at the Champaign County Public Defender’s Office, serving as the Treasurer of Salongo Black Student Union, performing in the University of Illinois Hip Hop Collective, and volunteering with the Illinois Public Interest Research Group. James has also had numerous international experiences during his undergraduate career and has studied abroad on three different occasions. James has studied international relations in Vienna, Austria; income inequality in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and ancient Greek history and warfare in Athens, Greece. 

While an undergraduate student at Illinois James received numerous awards including being named a recipient of the highly prestigious “Senior 100 Honorary”. This award honors 100 of the most outstanding graduating seniors at the University of Illinois. 

Throughout his college career James has been a member of the PTRJ Mentoring focus group, has served guests at PTRJ’s annual “Taste of our Heritage” event, and also participated in the PTRJ Mentoring back to school event. James has continued to be involved in PTRJ Mentoring events, has found time to give back, and serves as an excellent role model for other young people.

James will be continuing his education and pursuing his Doctor of Jurisprudence at the University of Chicago Law School this fall as a member of the J.D Class of 2022.