From Texas A&M to CSVA: A Lifetime of Impact, Honored in One Unforgettable Night.

Last night will be remembered not just as a celebration, but as a heartfelt tribute to a man whose dedication, integrity, and mentorship have shaped an entire generation of professionals in the collegiate sports video industry. For James, it was a moment of shock, pride, and overwhelming emotion—a culmination of decades of service, honored in front of peers, colleagues, and the young men he had mentored throughout his incredible career.

A Career Rooted in Passion and Service

James’ journey began 27 years ago at Texas A&M, where he found his calling in sports video—a field that combines technology, storytelling, and the pulse of the game. Over nearly three decades, he became a vital part of the football program’s inner workings, ensuring that every moment on the field was captured, analyzed, and preserved with excellence. But James was never just a technician. He was a mentor, a leader, and above all, a teacher.

In the often demanding and behind-the-scenes world of sports video, James became a steady presence. He wasn’t in it for the recognition. His focus was on building systems, supporting coaches, training staff, and guiding student workers. Many of those students would later credit him for their own careers, citing his patience, wisdom, and unshakable work ethic.

Beyond Texas A&M, James poured the same energy into the Collegiate Sports Video Association (CSVA). For 26 years, he was an active member, and for 12 of those, he served as the organization’s National Treasurer. His commitment helped shape CSVA into what it is today: a close-knit, passionate community that goes far beyond a traditional professional association.

The End of a Chapter—And the Start of Another

When James was let go from Texas A&M last year, it was a difficult and emotional moment—not just for him and his family, but for the many people who had worked with and learned from him over the years. His role at the university had been more than just a job; it was a core part of his identity and a platform for mentorship that extended well beyond the campus.

His departure also meant stepping away from his official capacity at CSVA. But James didn’t let that define the end of his story. He soon found a new professional home with VITEC, a company that provides video technology solutions and partners closely with CSVA at their annual conferences.

It was through this new role that James returned to the CSVA conference this year—not as a school representative, but as a vendor. What he didn’t know was that CSVA had been planning something special behind the scenes.

A Night to Remember

As the conference unfolded, James greeted old friends, met new colleagues, and embraced his new role with the same enthusiasm he always had. But behind the scenes, CSVA had coordinated with his wife to prepare a tribute that would take him by complete surprise.

When the time came, and James’ name was called, the look on his face said it all—shock, humility, and deep emotion. The association had chosen to honor him not simply for his service as treasurer, but for his legacy: the quiet strength, the late nights spent helping interns, the personal phone calls to offer career advice, the pride he took in seeing others succeed.

One by one, individuals stood and shared stories about how James had touched their lives. Former interns who are now directors at major universities spoke of how he believed in them when no one else did. Colleagues talked about his ethical leadership, his sense of humor, and his unwavering commitment to the industry.

The most touching moment? When a group of young men—once mentored by James at A&M—gathered onstage to stand with him. Now successful professionals in their own right, they had traveled from across the country to be there. Their presence was not orchestrated by James, but by CSVA—an organization that understood just how much those relationships meant to him, and how much he meant to them.

More Than an Organization—A Family

What became clear throughout the evening was something that those close to CSVA have always known: this association is more than just a network of professionals. It is a family.

In an industry that often demands long hours, intense travel, and behind-the-scenes work that rarely gets public credit, CSVA has become a sanctuary of support, recognition, and connection. And James embodied that spirit. His belief in others, his generosity of time and wisdom, and his consistent encouragement helped shape the very culture of CSVA itself.

As his wife shared later, “Watching their love, respect, and admiration for him brought tears to my eyes. I love how they love him. And I love this amazing organization. CSVA is more than an association—it’s a family. They are the heart and soul of this industry. They are the magic.”

A Legacy That Lives On

For James, the honor was deeply personal—not just because of the recognition, but because of the people involved. It wasn’t about awards or titles. It was about relationships. It was about impact.

And that’s what makes his legacy so enduring.

In the corporate world, in higher education, and in technical fields like sports video, it’s easy to focus on output: how many games you covered, how efficient your systems were, how smoothly things ran. James excelled in all those areas. But his true legacy lies in people—in the lives he changed, the careers he launched, and the community he built.

As the evening ended and the celebration gave way to hugs, quiet conversations, and shared memories, there was a sense of something deeply meaningful having taken place. It wasn’t just a retirement send-off or a career milestone. It was a life milestone—a recognition of the kind of professional and human being we should all strive to be.

Looking Ahead

James may no longer be at Texas A&M, but his story is far from over. At VITEC, he continues to bring the same passion and innovation that defined his earlier career. And through CSVA, he remains a beloved and respected figure, even without an official title.

Perhaps that is the most powerful tribute of all: that his influence transcends roles and institutions. He is respected not because of where he worked, but because of who he is.

In honoring James, CSVA reminded everyone in the room why this work matters—not just for the product we create, but for the people we become, and the people we lift along the way.

In a world that often moves too fast to pause for recognition, last night was a beautiful exception. It was a moment of gratitude, of reflection, and of deep appreciation for a man who gave so much, asked for so little, and left behind a better industry than the one he entered.

From Texas A&M to CSVA, James’ journey is one of dedication, mentorship, and impact. And thanks to one unforgettable night, that journey was celebrated in the most heartfelt way possible.

The applause may have faded, but the legacy continues—through every mentee he believed in, every colleague he supported, and every story told in his honor.