Faculty FrontDoor

James McDonald

Well, where to begin? I was born in Texas, but raised in Tampa. Consequently, I'm a huge Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan. Go Bucs!


Professionally, I worked 17 years in police work: 16 1/2 years with the Orlando Police Department and 6 months with the Escambia County Sheriff's Office. During my last seven years with the Orlando Police Department I managed the Recruiting Unit. Prior to that assignment, I supervised a patrol squad and a Parramore Street Crimes Bike Unit.



Aside from my time in civilian law enforcement, I spent four years in the United States Marines as a military police K-9 handler. My duties in the Marines led to me to Okinawa, Japan for a year, with side trips to Korea and the Philippines.



On the academic front, I graduated from UCF with a BS in Legal Studies and a MS in Criminal Justice. Since June 2005, I have been working diligently on my PhD in Public Affairs. I will be taking my qualifying exams in December 2008....hopefully.



Prior to starting this position with Valencia, I spent 1 1/2 years at the Criminal Justice Institute coordinating advanced/specialized courses and coordinating a basic corrections academy.



My hobbies include exercising and chasing my son around (the latter frequently qualifes as the former). I enjoy challenges and like to learn new things. Rest for me involves perpetual motion. I had a fear to flying so I learned to fly. Still have the fear, though I realize its irrational.



Well, that's about it. Feel free to call me if you have questions.