From teaching a classroom of middle schoolers to guiding his congregation in Napa Valley, California, James Williams has demonstrated to himself and others the importance of living life to the fullest. A devoted family man, follower of Christ, advocate, and musical artist, James has recently earned the title of ‘college graduate.’ He completed his Bachelor of Science in Integrated Studies, focusing on business and psychology, and is now putting his passion for service and mentoring into action. He ethically manages his congregation and inspires his students to pursue God’s purpose in their lives. With a commitment to making a positive impact during his lifetime, James eagerly anticipates what God has planned for him and his family next 

From Pulpit to Classroom

Raised in sunny Vallejo, California, James’ childhood revolved around serving and attending church. Having a father who eventually became the lead pastor of their local church, James remembers playing and singing in church, alongside his seven siblings – a musical family, in many senses. Whether he was asked to play the keyboard, organ or simply sing a song of praise, James always knew he had a knack for being multi-talented. As the years went on, James continued to work in the church in a variety of ways that made him realize he, too, wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and obtain his degree in theology. 

“I was serving as a junior usher, member of the worship team, children’s director. You name it, I was doing it,” James laughs. “And it wasn’t until I was a little older that I decided to also dedicate my life to the field of ministry. Since that day, I have never looked back.” 

Fast forward nearly 20 years, James found himself not only leading a church but also married and with two children. For James, time just flew by. Having dedicated so many years to building churches, leading new believers to faith, and raising his sons to follow the word of God, James felt like something was still missing in his life. He wanted to pour into the next generation, and what better way to do that than to teach. In true James fashion, he earned his teaching certification and began substituting middle school; an age range that he believes desperately needs guidance, mentorship and encouragement. 

“Education was something really important to me,” James said. “And it wasn’t until I was substituting that I realized that teaching was less about me giving, and more about me receiving. Receiving love, criticism, obstacles and blessings that came from my students, coworkers and the Lord.” 

And then, one day, it hit him. He saw his sons getting ready for college and realized that maybe it was time for him to learn a thing or two, as well. Speaking with his wife about his newfound idea about going back to school as a grown man, James was surprised to hear his whole family say ‘Go for it, Dad. You can do it, too.’ Overwhelmed with joy and nerves, James sought out universities that could fit his schedule while simultaneously pushing him to the next level. And after speaking with his friend about ACU Online, all it took was one search – and he was sold. 

“I really wanted a faith-based education,” James said. “And since I believe I have a knack for counseling and business, I figured ACU Online would be able to help me get to where I wanted to be.” 

Reaching The Next Level

It was always funny to James when he told people that he was in college, considering his two sons were also in the same boat. Still, though, James was taken aback to know how much school has changed since his last time in a classroom. Having never experienced a virtual setting, let alone a university, he was eager to see how ACU Online would work. Would he be able to keep up? How would classes work? Was he, in a sense, too old to go back? Though he had all of these questions, James took a deep breath and decided to jump in. For the next several years, he worked his way through his courses. Inch by inch, he finished them and learned so many new things that he immediately started applying to his classroom and in his sermons. He was changing, in all the good ways. 

“It was cool that I was able to relate with my kids about college,” James says. “It brought us closer together and made me see things differently. If it wasn’t for them, and my wife, I don’t know if I would have gone through with it.” 

In May 2024, James officially walked the stage with his ACU Online degree in hand. Smiling from ear to ear, James remembers thanking God for opening the doors, his heart and his mind to the truth that it’s never too late. With that motto at the forefront of his life, James is even more motivated to encourage others to go back to school; reminding them that they, too, can do it. 

“I’ve encountered so many different people these days, and all I keep saying is ‘it’s never too late to go back to school,’” James says. “And I mean it. By me going back, God has shown me things I would have never thought or would have learned about. All the glory goes to Him.” 

These days, James is at his newfound level. As a Black educator, he sees his position as an honor and privilege to sow into the lives of local kids in his area. To pray for them, encourage them and guide them through the harsh realities of this world. With his bold attitude and humble spirit, James is eager to see where else God will lead him. Whether that’s to become a marriage and family therapist or simply remain still, James has decided to obey and follow God’s voice, wherever it leads. 

Are you interested in reaching your next level vocationally and academically? Visit our website and learn more about our B.S. in Integrated Studies program. There, you will discover how versatile and exploratory our program is for those who have passions and desires to make a difference.