Jodie Ansel James

The beautiful spirit we all knew as Jodie Ansel James, was taken from us to Heaven on January 13, 2023. 
 

Among the many hats that he wore, was that of National Directer for the Education Foundation of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc

He was Science Team header for fifth grade at Booker Elementary and Aberdeen Elementary School.

Jodie was a graduate of Hampton University, majoring in Speech Communication and Theater Arts. It was his love for the theater that led him to co-found the Rite of Passage (R.O.P.E.) Theater Company, with his wife, Phyllis. He also completed thirty credit hours toward a Masters Degree at New York University, where he studied Higher Education Administration. This experience allowed him to serve as an intern for foreign students at Wagner College on Staten Island. While there, he also Published an article entitled " A Growing Need for Diversity In Higher Education" in the OAASS Chronicle, NYU Press.

Upon returning to Hampton, Virginia, he was employed as a Training Specialist/ Staff Development at the Virginia School for the Deaf, Blind, and Multi-Disabled.

Jodie's Professional Affiliations included the following:

Board Member - Hampton Roads Educators' Credit Union 

Past Board Member of the Strategic Planning Committee for Hampton City Schools; International World Judge Award from Odyssey of the Mind World Finals, Member of the

Newport News Police Department Citizens for United Action; Alphia Phi Alpha World Poliey Council Round table(Past) (Howard University).

Honors and Awards include a Lifetime Award From the National Parent, Teachers Association, Virginia Commission of the Arts Honoree, Gilbert Simms National Debate Forensics Award, 21St Century Foundation Award Recipient, and the Target Community Corporation Award.

Jodie’s Spirit is Cherished by Phyllis, his loving wife of 35 years, their son, "Will", and their adoring dog, Khaleesi.

...Bell..... Song..... Love....Peace.

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