James McClinton facts for kids

James A. McClinton, born in 1961, is a politician from Kansas. He was once the mayor of Topeka, Kansas. He served as mayor from January 2004 to April 2005. The city council chose him to take over after the previous mayor resigned. Before becoming mayor, Mr. McClinton served on the city council. He was a council member from 1991 to 1993 and again from 1997 to 2001. He is a member of the Democratic Party.

Early Life and Education

James McClinton was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. As a young child, he moved to Helena, Arkansas. Later, his family settled in Topeka, Kansas. He went to Washburn Rural High School.

College and Advanced Degrees

After high school, he attended Washburn University. There, he earned a minor degree in psychology. He also received an associate degree in mental health. Mr. McClinton completed his bachelor's degree in criminal justice at Washburn. He then earned a master's degree in public administration. This advanced degree was from the University of Kansas, where he graduated with honors.

Time as Mayor of Topeka

James McClinton's time as mayor was short but important. He was the first African-American mayor of Topeka. He was also the first mayor chosen by the city council. The council selected him from 40 candidates.

Changes to the Mayor's Role

Mr. McClinton was the last mayor to have full power in Topeka. After his term, the city changed its government system. Citizens voted for a council-manager form of government in 2004. This change meant the mayor's job became more ceremonial. A new city manager and the city council would hold most of the power. This decision was made before McClinton became mayor. In 2004, he decided not to run for a full term as the new ceremonial mayor.

Key Events During His Term

During his time as mayor, Topeka celebrated its 150th anniversary. The city also welcomed important visitors. These included George W. Bush, Stephen Breyer, and John Kerry. They visited to celebrate the anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education decision. This landmark ruling ended racial segregation in schools. They also visited the renovated Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site.

Mayor McClinton worked on several important projects. He created a group of community leaders. They developed a plan for the Riverfront area. He presented this plan to the city council. The plan was approved and became law. He also started new programs to improve the inner city. One program received an award from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Mayor McClinton also worked with other mayors. Their goal was to help end homelessness. Under his leadership, Topeka received several "Best Practices" awards. He also partnered with the University of Kansas. This partnership helped students who returned to the community for service.

After Leaving Office

After leaving the mayor's office in 2005, Mr. McClinton continued to work. He helped a developer revitalize inner cities in several states. In 2007, he moved to the Dallas area in Texas.

Current Work and Family

Today, James McClinton is the Director of Community Development and Housing for Tarrant County, Texas. Tarrant County is one of the largest counties in the United States. He also owns his own business, McClinton Consulting. Mr. McClinton has two daughters, Jameika Knight and Tawana McClinton. He is also a grandfather to six grandchildren. In 2020, he was a delegate for Biden/Harris at the Democratic National Convention.

Career Highlights

James McClinton began his career at age 19. He has a long history of leadership roles. He has worked in both public and private organizations. His experience includes managing mental health services. He also managed correctional hospitals and state nursing boards. His career also includes work in adult and juvenile justice. He has experience in human resources and project management. Mr. McClinton has over twenty years of experience. He has managed people, projects, and budgets.

Honors and Awards

• Trumpet Awards Foundation Seat of Distinction
• Who's Who in the World
• Marquis Who's Who In America
• Washburn University Alumni Fellow
• Washburn Rural High School Hall of Fame Inductee
• Outstanding Young Men of America