The Rev. Dr. Ricky James has been appointed as the new dean of the chapel and director of church relations at Millsaps College. James will replace the Rev. Dr. Joey Shelton, who has served in the role since July 2017. Shelton will step down at the end of May, and James will take on the new role on July 1.
“I am honored by this appointment to be part of this important work at Millsaps,” said James. “When I first arrived on campus as a student, I knew instantly this was a special place. I found a community dedicated not only to academic excellence, but also to allowing what we learned in the classroom to transform how we engage with the world around us. That is also the hallmark of faith in the Wesleyan tradition–joining together vital spirituality with transformational service to others.”
A 2004 graduate of Millsaps, James earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy and religious studies. In his senior year, he was awarded the Bishop’s Medal, recognized as the W. Charles Sallis Leader of the Year and Most Distinguished Man, received the Lewis and Reiff Award for Service and Leadership, and elected to the Millsaps College Hall of Fame. He was recognized as the Outstanding Young Alumnus in 2014.
He completed his clinical pastoral education at the University of North Carolina Medical Center in 2006 and received his Master of Divinity degree from The Divinity School at Duke University in 2007. James earned his Doctor of Ministry degree from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University in 2017.
James completed the Business Advantage Program in 2012, through the Else School of Management at Millsaps. He also served as a member of the Millsaps Board of Trustees from 2017 to 2021 and chair of the board of the Center for Ministry from 2010 To 2020. His wife, Megan, is also a 2004 graduate of Millsaps. She currently serves the college as vice president of student affairs and dean of students.
“I can’t imagine a better fit for Millsaps College and for Ricky James than for Ricky to be the next dean of the chapel and director of church relations here at his alma mater.” said Dr. Rob Pearigen, president of Millsaps. “His history as a student, a trustee, and a dear and respected friend of the college will serve him well as he takes on this new role. His equally important history as a pastor, teacher and elder in the United Methodist Church will support and help guide us as we continue to focus on our path of faith, reason and community.”
James currently serves as senior pastor of First United Methodist Church in Clinton, Miss. He is also a Lieutenant (0-3), Chaplain Corps in the United States Navy Reserve, and chaplain to the III Marine Expeditionary Force.
James acknowledged the work of those who have come before him as he prepares to step back on to the Millsaps campus.
“I look forward to continuing this tradition and building on the legacy of my alumni predecessors like Don Fortenberry, Lisa Garvin, and Joey Shelton. Go Majors!”