A Servant Leader for Richland County District 11
Educator. Workforce development leader. Ordained minister. Husband and father. A lifelong Richland County resident ready to serve.
Home is where the work begins
Dr. James M. Thompson I is a lifelong Richland County resident and a devoted family man. He is married to Dr. Danna Thompson, and together they are raising three children — all students in our public schools.
His community-centered values were shaped here, among the neighbors, schools, and congregations of District 11. That is exactly why he is running: to give back to the community that shaped him.
From the classroom to leadership
James began his career as a science teacher, bringing curiosity and high expectations to his students. He went on to serve as an assistant principal in Richland County School District One, then moved into higher education as a professor and academic dean.
Across every role, one commitment held steady: helping students and families succeed and access opportunity.
Connecting education to economic opportunity
James led a federally funded $3 million GEAR-UP program, helping students prepare for college and careers. He has secured grants for community organizations and built partnerships that open doors.
Today he serves in workforce development with the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education — connecting education to jobs, training, and long-term economic growth for working families.
Leadership rooted in listening
James is an ordained minister, and his approach to leadership reflects it: listening first, leading with compassion, holding himself accountable, and following through with results.
He is the husband of Dr. Danna Thompson and the father of three children in our public schools — the people who keep his service grounded in everyday family life.
Why County Council
County government shapes daily life: roads, services, growth, public safety, infrastructure, economic development, transparency, and community investment.
James is running to make local government more responsive and more connected to the people it serves — so District 11 residents know their voices are heard and acted upon.