James Coleman is a native of Denver—having grown up in the Park Hill neighborhood, currently living in Green Valley Ranch—and is currently serving his second term representing the citizens, families, and communities of District 7 in Colorado’s House of Representatives. In 2016, James was elected to serve his first term as the youngest of the 100 Colorado representatives and senators. James serves in leadership as the Colorado House Majority Co-Whip, and serves as Vice Chair of the House Business Affairs and Labor Committee, and sits on both the House Education Committee, and House Appropriations Committee. James is one of 8 African American legislators, the most African American legislators to serve at the same time in the Colorado legislature in Colorado history.
His professional career has been dedicated to empowering families and engaging the community to improve the quality of life for Colorado residents. He serves as CEO at FaithBridge, a local nonprofit mobilizing faith communities to improve K-12 education in the State of Colorado. James’ passion for faith based community service began when he was licensed and ordained as a minister at the age of 13, preaching in churches and doing street ministry across the Metro Denver area.
James is a passionate champion for excellent education and quality options. It’s driven by his formative years growing up in the Park Hill neighborhood and experiencing the full range of educational options. He attended Smiley Middle School, a traditional Denver Public School. Later, through a need-based scholarship, he attended a private high school. And as a parent, he sends his own young children to a public charter school in Northeast Denver. He understands that different students and families have different needs, and every parent deserves the opportunity to choose the school that works best for their child.
James serves as a Board of Director member at Highline Academy, a tuition-free public charter school with a custom liberal arts curriculum and rigorous academic program. His civic engagement also includes the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Tony Grampsas Youth Services Board, Education Commission of the States, and several other organizations.
James earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, with a minor in Business Administration, from Oral Roberts University. He and his wife, Shayna, have been together since the 8th grade, and have two amazing children (twins), James Jr. and Naomi who are 8 years old in the 2nd grade.