Tri-C Famous: James Gardner Jr.

#TriCFamous is a bimonthly feature that introduces readers to the people who make the College work while providing a sneak peek into their lives off campus.

James Gardner Jr. is interim director of Student Life, Athletics and Recreation at the Metropolitan Campus. A member of the Tri-C family since November 2008, he’s also served as a financial aid adviser, recruiter and student success specialist. One of his most recent projects has been launching the new Metro Food Pantry. Learn more about James — including a fishing trip he’ll never forget — in this week’s Tri-C Famous.

1. What’s your favorite book, and why?
The Bible. I love the storytelling and the wisdom I receive while reading.

2. Tell us a funny story from your youth.
One summer, my father took me and my brother fishing in Sandusky. At that time, fishermen could walk down the railroad tracks to get to their desired spot. On our way across the bridge, with only water on either side of us, the tracks began to vibrate. A train was coming. My father screamed for us to run. Lucky for us, we made it just in time. Once we’d settled in, my brother asked for a drink. It was then my father realized he’d forgotten one of the coolers at home and had only brought his beer cooler. Needless to say, we did not tell our mother about this part of the trip.

3. What are you most proud of?
Being a father. Regardless of any professional accolades, the legacy that I’m building and sharing with my daughter and son will always make me most proud.

Want to be Tri-C Famous? Email beth.cieslik@tri-c.edu for a chance to be featured (or to nominate someone else!)

June 22, 2021

Beth Cieslik, 216-987-4538 or beth.cieslik@tri-c.edu