James Wilkerson, Jr

James hails from  Moss Point, MS; and attended Florida A&M University  receiving  a BS in Accounting, and an MBA from Chaminade University.  He completed the Certified Financial Planners Curriculum at the University of South Florida and earned the CFP® designation as well as receiving his designation as a Certified Financial Educator CFEd® from the Heartland Institute of Financial Education.  He also holds an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy from Global Oved Dei Seminary & University. 

James retired from the US Navy as a LCDR with 20 years of faithful service with a host of destinations and awards to include being a  Patrol Plane Mission Commander, Instructor Tactical Coordinator and Navigator, with over 2900 total flight hours and over 1000 as a Mission Commander.  He also was designated a Joint Specialty Officer, and his awards include three Meritorious Service Medals, Navy Commendation Medal, and the Navy Achievement Medal. With over 19 years in the financial services industry he serves as the How Money Works Southeastern US Senior Marketing Director responsible for the WealthWave's Financial Literacy Campaign in urban communities. He also serves as the Chairman of The Board for REACHUP Inc to advocate for and mobilize resources to help communities achieve equality in healthcare and positive health for families. 

A licensed minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ he has served in various positions in his 22 years as a minister.  He's married to the former Valerie C. Smith of Tallahassee, FL and they're blessed with two wonderful children, one grandchild and currently reside in Apollo Beach, FL.