EOAC Executive Director
James R. Jesse is the Executive Director of EOAC, a multi-program community action agency serving the Heart of Texas, where he leads efforts to reduce poverty and expand opportunity across rural and urban communities. His work spans early childhood education, energy assistance, workforce development, and family stabilization programs, with an emphasis on strengthening systems, improving outcomes, and ensuring public and philanthropic resources translate into real impact for families.

James brings more than two decades of nonprofit leadership experience, including founding and growing mission-driven organizations, building cross-sector partnerships, and securing public and private funding. Earlier in his career, he worked extensively in college access, helping first-generation students pursue postsecondary pathways and expanding access to education across North Texas. Across roles, his leadership has been defined by organizational growth, thoughtful strategy, and a commitment to equity paired with operational excellence.

He holds degrees from Hardin-Simmons University and Louisiana State University and a certificate in Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management from Harvard Business School. His work has been recognized through various professional and community awards, and he has served on multiple advisory councils and nonprofit boards focused on education, equity, and opportunity. James grew up in a small Texas town and leads with a practical, relational style shaped by that experience. He lives in Texas with his wife and children, where he is actively engaged in church and community life.

In spite of his accomplishments, James remains a five-time Publisher’s Clearinghouse finalist—which is to say, he is deeply committed to hope and relentlessly optimistic.