Meet James

Prior to joining Fetzer, I worked at the Kalamazoo Nature Center for nine years as vice president for facilities and project management. There, I was responsible for planning, directing, and guiding all facilities maintenance and operational processes for 28 facilities and stewarding roughly 1,400 acres of land and 14 miles of trails. I have also maintained and cared for various property types, including apartment communities and public housing. I am a licensed builder, hold multiple building certifications and licenses, and have a passion for environmental sustainability. All my prior experiences perfectly align with my current role at the Fetzer Institute. 

I have been living in Kalamazoo since 2008 with my wife, who is a teacher, and our two daughters. We also have a golden retriever named Jax. When we aren’t busy traveling to our daughters’ lacrosse and figure skating competitions, we enjoy renovating houses while living in them. We are also active outdoors, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding. My family loves the Kalamazoo area, and I am very excited to be part of the Fetzer community.