October 27, 2022
22-154
Jessica Bishop
Communication and media relations coordinator
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Two-time Valdosta State University alumnus Shannon W. James Sr. (right) was honored with the 2022 Harley Langdale Junior College of Business Distinguished Alumnus Award. He is with Dr. Richard A. Carvajal, President of VSU. |
VALDOSTA – Valdosta State University has honored two-time alumni Shannon W. James Sr. with the 2022 Harley Langdale Junior College of Business Distinguished Alumnus Award.
“This award is not only motivational; it confirms that my early decisions and sacrifices are paying off big on my investments in quality of life.”
Following a successful 15-year career in banking, James committed himself to following his heart and making a difference in an unexpected area of metro Atlanta. As president and CEO of the Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance, he leads a public-private partnership working to improve regional economic competitiveness around Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Atlanta Magazine He recognized him as one of the most powerful leaders of the city in 2021 and 2022.
The Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance has received numerous awards under James’ leadership – the Atlanta Regional Commission’s 2018 Excellence in Development Award in the “Great Place” category, the International Economic Development Council’s 2019 Leadership Award, and the Beloved Benefit’s 2022 Community Beacon Award.
James lives in Stone Mountain, Georgia with his wife, three children, and Ken Corso. When not working, he enjoys serving the community on various boards and initiatives. He coaches his son’s AAU basketball team and enjoys traveling, reading, exercising and spending time with friends and loved ones. He and his wife/best friend met while attending VSU.
James earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management in 2004 and a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing in 2005.
Q: What are some highlights from your Valdosta State experience?
A: My biggest highlights were playing for the men’s basketball team, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.
Q: What advice do you have for current Valdosta State students? What do you wish someone had told you when you were in college?
Answer: Believe in yourself. Break some rules. Don’t be afraid of failure. Don’t listen to naysayers. Work your ass off! Give something back!!
On the web:
https://www.valdostastate.org/
https://www.valdosta.edu/colleges/business/
