Dr. James Wilson transitions from VP for Academic Affairs to full-time professor, leaving a legacy at Wilmington University
Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. James Wilson retired in June from the Executive Team but remains a full-time professor in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences’ Mental Health Counseling program. Dr. Wilson is a National Certified Counselor, Approved Clinical Supervisor, and Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health.
He was appointed by Delaware Govs. Tom Carper and Ruth Ann Minner to the Delaware Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals, and he served from 1998 to 2006 as board president (two terms) and vice president (one term). Dr. Wilson was also a Delaware state delegate and past American Association of State Counseling Boards president. As president, he lobbied the California State Assembly on behalf of mental health counselors seeking to gain licensure status. This resulted in those counselors having licensure status in all 50 states.
Dr. Wilson’s clinical experience includes working with WellSpan Philhaven, a facility that addresses mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. A pastoral counselor by training, he operated a limited private practice focused on individual and marital counseling, using insights and principles derived from theology and the behavioral sciences. Additionally, Dr. Wilson has volunteered as a mental health professional for the Delaware Medical Reserve Corps since 2011.
In his 24 years at Wilmington University, Dr. Wilson played an integral role in advancing the University’s growth and development. He joined the University in 2000 as assistant professor and division chair of Behavioral Sciences. He was named assistant vice president and associate professor for Academic Affairs in 2005, then earned the rank of full professor in 2010. Dr. Wilson joined the Executive Team as vice president for Academic Affairs in 2012.
In that role, Dr. Wilson oversaw the development and implementation of academic policies, managed the curriculum, and ensured the quality of educational programs. He facilitated faculty development, promoted interdisciplinary collaboration, and supported innovative teaching methods. Dr. Wilson also played a role in strategic planning and accreditation processes and helped foster a culture of continuous improvement within the University’s academic departments. His efforts enhanced student learning experiences and expanded research opportunities.
“Dr. Wilson’s work was instrumental in shaping the University’s academic landscape,” says Wilmington University President Dr. LaVerne Harmon. “His extensive credentials in the mental health field will provide invaluable expertise to students within the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, significantly enhancing their academic and professional growth.”
—Maria Hess