James McCall
Director of Christian Service Learning
Division Chair Social and Behavioral Sciences
Education
- PhD Candidate, Counselor Education and Supervision, Columbia International University (expected Dec 2026)
- MA, Marriage, Family and Couple Counseling, Messiah University
- MDiv, Ministry Leadership, Columbia International University
- BA, Theology, Calvary Chapel Bible College
- BA, Biblical Studies, Joshua Springs Bible College
- AA, Social Sciences, Imperial Valley College
Biography
James McCall serves as Assistant Dean, Director of Christian Service Learning, and Division Chair for Behavioral and Social Sciences at Columbia International University. His mission is to help students discover who they are, deepen their walk with God, and discern the calling God is shaping in them. Through mentoring, spiritual formation, vocational coaching, and service-learning, James creates environments where students feel known, challenged, and supported as they grow.
As a licensed professional counselor, James brings clinical insight to his work with students, helping them navigate identity, relationships, family systems, and the real struggles that shape their lives. His years of cross-cultural ministry and service across Latin America and Asia strengthened his conviction that students grow most when they step beyond their comfort zones and into meaningful relationships with other believers.
At CIU, James teaches Spiritual Formation, Human Services, Psychology and Ministry. He designs learning experiences that prioritize formation over information, inviting students to wrestle honestly with faith, purpose, and the kind of person they are becoming.
James has been married to Laura since 2004, and they have a son, Drew. Outside the classroom, he enjoys reading, martial arts, and walking with his wife.
Selected Publications & Presentations
- McCall, A.J., Ott, L., & Melvin., S. (2026). “Navigating Faith and Safety: Supporting Women Facing Intimate Partner Violence in the Church” Christian Association for Psychological Studies International Conference Presentation.
- Gibson, G., McCall, A.J., & Roberson, A. (2025). “Overcoming Barriers to Cultural Humility: A Dialectical Approach in Counselor Training and Supervision.” Association for Counselor Educators and Supervisors Conference.
- Gibson, G., Roberson, A., & McCall, A.J. (2025). “Implementation of CACREP Standards for Recruiting and Retaining Diverse Faculty and Students.” Association for Counselor Educators and Supervisors Conference.
- McCall, A.J. (2023). “Using Disney Movies to Process Emotional Regulation through Cinema Therapy.” Bridge of Hope Counseling Center Training.
Recognitions & Awards
- President’s Award for Community Impact, Columbia International University, 2022
- Founder and Chair, African American Student Association, Columbia International University (2008–present)
- Chair, Mentoring Committee, CIU African American Alumni Network (2012–2016)
- Chair, Diversity Scholarship Committee, Columbia International University (2012–2016)
