Oakton mourns loss of lead diversity administrator

Gregory C. James, Oakton Community College’s assistant vice president for Student Affairs/Office of Access, Equity, and Diversity, died Thursday, Oct. 20 of complications from a brain aneurysm.

James, 55, of Chicago, came to Oakton’s Des Plaines campus in August 2005 as dean of students. He was promoted to oversee student affairs in June 2009, becoming the first person to hold that position.

He was a mentor to students and colleagues, and committed to social justice and anti-bias work at the college and regionally, according to a college news release.

James also was a published author on topics related to teaching nontraditional students and supporting the academic development of minorities. He established and chaired Oakton’s Diversity Council and was a member of the college’s anti-racism team, according to the release.

He also served on Oakton’s Master Plan Steering Committee and on the steering committee of the Illinois Committee on Black Concerns in Higher Education. He received an Equity Award from the Illinois Community College Trustee Association and an Innovation Award from the Illinois Council of Community College Administration.

“He was a presence filled with energy, joie de vivre, and a charismatic ability to connect,” Oakton President Margaret B. Lee said. “He leaves a legacy that we must commit to continuing in our work.”