Jim is presently the Director of the Cantonese Center for Urban & Environmental Solutions at Florida Atlantic University. His career has been a combination of public and private service focusing on managing growth and development with an eye on the environment. The Cantonese Center is dedicated to helping communities and decision makers manage urban and environmental issues through partnerships in education and research. From 1995 to 1999, Jim served as the Secretary of the Florida Department of Community Affairs overseeing implementation of growth management laws, as well as disaster relief. In this most recent role Jim coordinated relief efforts during major hurricanes. From 1987 to 1995, Jim served as the Executive Director of 1000 Friends of Florida, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting healthy urban and natural places through wise management of growth and change. Jim received his BA in History and Political Science from Denison University. Jim completed his master’s work at George Washington University and in 1974, his Juris Doctor at the National Law Center. Jim was awarded a Bronze Star for his service to our country in Vietnam.