Dick James is receiving the Board of Directors Caring Heart Award.  Dick has exemplified a life of service through his involvement in both faith-based and community organizations, giving generously of his time, finances and talents.  Dick holds a PhD in Mathematical Statistics from Purdue University and has a resume that includes being President of four companies.  He began his business career as a mathematician with General Motors in 1970 and was honored with an Outstanding Young Men of America award in 1977.  Dick then spent 11 years at General Electric, which culminated in becoming Vice President of Marketing for Consumer Electronics, a corporate officer.  Near the end of his tenure at GE, Dick served as Chairman of the Consumer Electronics Association Executive Board.  After serving as President of the speaker company JBL, Inc., followed by Harman’s Pro Audio Group, Dick moved to Vancouver in 1994 as President of Labtec, and then later served as President of First Aid Only.  After retiring from business, Dick is now an adjunct professor at both Clark College and WSU Vancouver, utilizing his advanced education and vast experience to teach others.  In addition to his teaching, Dick provides pro bono consulting services to at least two nonprofit organizations, one of which is Innovative Services NW.  His time and expertise in business saves these organizations thousands of dollars as he provides them with his consultations in management, administration, statistical and marketing strategies in a manner that is consistent, effective and highly efficient.  He was an integral member of the Capital Campaign Cabinet, helping to raise the funds necessary to build the Mary Firstenburg Family Center, which Innovative Services NW calls home.  Dick credits his faith, his wife of 44 years, his three adult children and several math instructors with having the greatest impact in his life.  His wife, Jeanette remains active in the community as a high school musical director.  Dick is committed to the fair trade/sustainability movement through working closely with his older son’s company, Fair Trade Sports.  He has a passion for mentoring young adults, which he does through teaching, his consulting work and through his service to New Heights Church as a small group leader and teacher.  Dick has lived in the Vancouver area for over 15 years and giving back to the community that has become home is very near and dear to his heart.  In his spare time, Dick enjoys racquetball, reading, occasional golf and traveling.