James O'S. Morton

President and CEO, YMCA of Greater Springfield, Inc.

James O’S. Morton graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1977, with a BA degree in Sociology and a minor in African American Literature, and he graduated from Northeastern University School of Law in 1981.  James practiced law for 18 years and was an advocate for the fairness and equity; he fought for ward representation and against police brutality.  When his advocacy failed to bring about significant social change, he decided that working with teenagers was a more conducive way to bring about social justice and equity.  He left the practice of law in 1999 and became a Social Studies/Law teacher and Track/Cross Country coach at the High School of Commerce in Springfield, Massachusetts. After successfully teaching, coaching, advising and mentoring youngsters in the City of Springfield for five years, James was asked by the Mayor of Springfield to administer the Massachusetts Career Development Institute (MDCI), an adult education and vocational training institution for recent immigrants and underserved adult learners seeking academic and vocational advancement.  Within two years, James was able to eliminate a budget deficit of $1.2 million dollars and restore the Institute’s reputation for leadership in the area of educational and vocational training for adults.  While teaching at Commerce, James helped to develop a YMCA Youth & Government Program that would become recognized as a “premier delegation” for five consecutive years.  In fact, upon leaving Commerce, one of the terms of his contract with the City of Springfield was the continuation of his role as an advisor to the Y’s Youth & Government Program.  Additionally, the YMCA of Greater Springfield and MCDI collaborated on several community based initiatives, including an anti-gang violence program and a teen parenting program.  After conducting a national search for a new President and CEO, the Search Committee asked James if he would consider the position.  After careful consideration, James decided to apply and was ultimately hired as the YMCA’s 13th President/CEO on January 2, 2007.  The YMCA of Greater Springfield is the second oldest YMCA in the United States and has an annual budget of ten and one half million ($10,500,000) dollars.  James served as member of the, now-disbanded, Springfield Finance Control Board.  In recent years, the City of Springfield has suffered from fiscal mismanagement and three years ago faced possible bankruptcy.  The Control Board was created by former Governor Mitt Romney to manage the financial affairs of the City of Springfield.  Upon the election of Governor Deval Patrick, James was appointed, on May 19, 2007, to serve on the Control Board for two years.  James’ involvement has provided the YMCA with the unique opportunity to participate in the governance of the City of Springfield.  In addition to his work, James has served on countless committees and boards, especially in the area of youth development and employment.  He is also active in Masters Track & Field, competing on the national level in the 400 and 800 meters.  James is happily married and has a 20 year old son.