Dr. James A. Paschal is a pronounced figure in the fields of social work and academia who accrued nearly six decades of experience prior to his full retirement in 2015. Most recently serving as the owner and director of the Family Counseling Center in Atlanta, Georgia, from 2005 to 2015, he provided pro bono counseling work to individuals who were unable to pay for full priced psychological services. Prior to this appointment, Dr. Paschal spent five years as the head of the counseling program at Albany State University from 2000 to 2005 and was a counselor at Monroe High School and Swainsboro High School between 1990 and 1999.
Earlier in his career, Dr. Paschal excelled as the coordinator of facilities for the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education from 1982 to 1989, the director of student affairs at Benedict College from 1978 to 1982, and the coordinator of student services at Augusta Technical College from 1967 to 1978. Likewise, he was a school social worker for the Americus City System between 1965 and 1967 and a counselor at Staley Junior High School from 1959 to 1965. He commenced his career as a fifth grade teacher at East View Elementary School in 1957, holding the role until 1959.
Impressively, Dr. Paschal served in the United States Army between 1951 and 1953, during which time he served in the Korean War and earned a Bronze Service Medal for his achievements. Shortly thereafter, he attended Xavier University, achieving a Bachelor of Arts in 1957. Subsequently, he matriculated in Fort Valley State College and received a Master of Science in 1963. After accruing years of experience in his fields, he enrolled in the University of South Carolina, obtaining a Doctor of Education in 1977. He is a certified administrator, teacher, counselor and social worker.
To remain abreast of developments in the field, Dr. Paschal has maintained affiliation with the National Education Association, the American Counseling Association and the Georgia Counseling Association. He is a former vice president of Alpha Phi Alpha and current member of the South Metro Atlanta chapter of 100 Black Men of Atlanta and Optimist International. Further, he is a member of Kiwanis International and was previously affiliated as a board member and president of the Atlanta Alumni chapter of Xavier University.
Looking toward the future, Dr. Paschal intends to volunteer in his community after the dissolution of the coronavirus pandemic. Ultimately, he would like to help the homeless population in his region.