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James Hillis
Co-Founder, Good Life Growing - Ph.D. Student, Public & Social Policy, Saint Louis University
Professional Background
James Hillis is a dynamic entrepreneur, advocate, and researcher, widely recognized for his contributions across various sectors, particularly in community development and urban agriculture. With a multifaceted skill set encompassing stakeholder engagement, business development, university-community collaborations, grants, GIS mapping, and the social sciences, he has established himself as a versatile leader dedicated to addressing pressing community issues.
Co-founding Good Life Growing, an urban farming social enterprise, James has successfully integrated innovative agricultural solutions to combat food insecurity and urban decay. His vision for increasing local food access revolves around fostering urban regeneration and promoting sustainable food production techniques, including advanced year-round indoor and outdoor growing methods. His work not only enhances the local economy but also enriches the community by making fresh produce more accessible.
In addition to his work in urban agriculture, James also serves as the Co-Founder and Practice Director of Hillis Family Dental, where he applies his business acumen to provide exceptional dental care services. His ability to navigate and lead in diverse industries illustrates his commitment to enhancing community wellbeing through various avenues.
Education and Achievements
James holds a Master of Science (M.S.) degree from Creighton University, where he honed his analytical and research skills. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Public & Social Policy at Saint Louis University, focusing on geospatial and policy analysis. This educational background equips him with a robust understanding of how spatial analysis can influence community planning and policy-making, particularly concerning food systems and urban agriculture.
As a Graduate Research Assistant at Saint Louis University, he contributes significantly to academic research while honing his comparative analysis skills, researching the multifaceted relationships between policy, geography, and community dynamics. His ongoing doctoral studies reflect his dedication to understanding and addressing social issues through informed, research-driven approaches.
Notable Achievements
James’s career is punctuated by various accomplishments that highlight his commitment to public service and community engagement. Not only has he made strides in urban farming, but he also champions initiatives that promote sustainability and food access among underserved populations. The establishment of Good Life Growing stands as a testament to his innovative approach to social entrepreneurship, leveraging urban agriculture as a sustainable solution to food insecurity.
Furthermore, through his role in Hillis Family Dental, he employs his business development skills to ensure high-quality healthcare services while simultaneously promoting community growth and wellness. His combined expertise in research, service delivery, and stakeholder engagement positions him as an influential figure in both healthcare and community development landscapes.
Through his work and academic pursuits, James Hillis exemplifies the power of merging research with practical, community-focused initiatives. His efforts not only drive innovation within urban agriculture but also reflect a deep commitment to fostering resilient communities capable of thriving in the face of socio-economic challenges.
