James Goins held the position of Associate Director of Photography Online at the Academy of Art University from 2005-2018. James now teaches as an Adjunct Instructor in the School of Photography. His experience as a visual artist and an art educator in higher education began over 25 years ago. As an educator, he believes in creating an environment that encourages communication, collaboration, and the exploration of personal and creative growth. He is a fine art photographer/painter, based in Northern California. He has earned degrees in Graphic Design and holds a BFA in fine art photography from the University of Missouri-Saint Louis. He specializes in mixed media and alternative processes and exhibits his photographs and paintings throughout the Midwest and the West coast. James is an active member of both the Society for Photographic Education and the College Art Association.