KHS Class of 1975
Category--Service to Community
Inaugural Inductee
Jim graduated with his B.A. from Washington State University. Standing first in 1980's graduating class with a 4.0 G.P.A while also receiving All American honors three times for his endeavors in track and field. Jim went on to obtain his Juris Doctorate from the University of Washington Law School (top 10 class standing) and was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist.
Jim was elected as State Representative from the 8th District serving from 1987-1990 and was selected as Majority Whip for the democrat party and served in the following committees:
Agriculture Energy and Utilities
Higher Education
Environmental Affairs
In 1990 Jim was elected as State Senator from the 8th District becoming the Majority Floor Leader 1993. Jim Served on the following Committees:
Ways and Means
Rules
Energy and Utilities
Higher Education
In 1993, he was 1st appointed by Governor Mike Lowry to be Director of Washington State Department of Agriculture, and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture: serving in numerous committees representing the trade of Washington State such as Natural Resources and Environment Committee and the Western United States Agricultural Trade Association. Finally, Jim served as the Director for Governor Gregoire’s Transition Team before leaving to the law offices of Coyne.