James Hissong

James Hissong has a diverse work experience in various educational and administrative roles. James most recently served as the Director of Grants and Strategic Partnerships at Kent ISD, where they led efforts to secure external funding opportunities for the benefit of the district. Prior to that, they owned and operated Grantsmanship Consulting LLC. James has also worked as a Grant Writer for the City of Three Rivers/City of Sturgis and as the Grants and Development Coordinator for Kent Intermediate School District. Additionally, they have held positions as a Community Development Coordinator for St. Joseph County, Director of Quality and Evaluation and Quality and Evaluation Coordinator for Communities In Schools of Kalamazoo, and an Art Educator for Kalamazoo Public Schools.

James Hissong obtained a B.A. degree in Art Education from Western Michigan University in 2008. Later, from 2011 to 2015, they pursued an MPA degree in Public Administration with a focus on Non-Profit Leadership from the same institution. Additionally, they received a certification in Storytelling for Influence from IDEO U in 2018.