James Thompson

James Thompson, a native of Flint, MI, joined the United States Marine Corps, where he spent 5.5 years. After leaving active duty as a Sergeant, he then used his G.I. Bill to earn a B.B.A. from Howard University, concentrating on Supply Chain Management.

As President of the 100 Black Men of Greater Washington, DC, James Thompson has led one of the most transformative eras in the chapter’s history. The organization has expanded from just two partners to more than 30, forging alliances with industry leaders, numerous universities, corporations, and government agencies that have strengthened both resources and reach.

In the past 5 years, the chapter has awarded more than $200,000 in scholarships, empowering students to pursue higher education and professional development opportunities. Through the flagship Saturday Leadership Academy (SLA), the chapter has sustained an unmatched record of success, boasting a 100 percent high school graduation rate, while ensuring that 95 percent of mentees continue to college, the military, or trade school.

This commitment to excellence has been recognized on a national stage. The chapter was recognized as the 100 Black Men of America Chapter of the Year in 2019 and 2022, while the Collegiate 100 at Howard University earned the distinction of Collegiate 100 Chapter of the Year in 2022 and 2024.

Through initiatives like STEM the 100 Way, which now reaches more than 1,000 youth annually across the DMV, and the Collegiate 100 at Howard University, which develops near-peer mentors and young leaders, James has helped position the organization as a pipeline of excellence and empowerment.

Guided by the motto, “What They See Is What They’ll Be,” James continues to ensure that every young person served by the chapter sees examples of excellence, leadership, and opportunity-and understands that they, too, can achieve and surpass those same heights.

He resides in Washington, DC, and is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.