Source: Delaware Technical Community College
On Thursday, February 13, 2025,Delaware Technical Community College recognized Wilmington native James “Ray” Rhodes at its annual Black History Month Celebration. Rhodes is the STEM Hub & Community Engagement Director at Eastside Charter School, where he oversees the daily operations of the $26 million STEM Hub, providing transformative learning opportunities for students, parents, and the community. Rhodes has made outstanding contributions to education, community engagement, government service, and youth mentorship both in the city of Wilmington and beyond.
Since 1998, Delaware Technical Community College’s Stanton and George campuses have been celebrating Black History Month by honoring a member of the community for their outstanding personal and professional achievements. The College selects individuals who have made significant contributions to the community and have made an impact on improving the quality of life throughout the State.
“We are proud to be recognizing James Ray Rhodes as this year’s honoree,” said Dr. Lora Johnson, Vice President and Campus Director for Delaware Tech’s Wilmington campus. “His leadership has expanded opportunities for students, inspired future generations, and fostered lasting change.”
During the event, tributes were presented from various local and state officials, including New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry, who proclaimed February 13, 2025 as James Ray Rhodes Day in New Castle County in recognition of Rhodes’s commitment to the community.
Rhodes was introduced by his daughter, Cherae Hicks, who provided charismatic anecdotes of his leadership style. “The word ‘no’ is not in his vocabulary — not in the way that most people think,” Hicks said. “To him, ‘no’ stands for ‘next opportunity.’”
Rhodes reflected on the defining moments of his leadership journey – his first job as a street sweep in Wilmington, serving in the Navy, fighting for the opportunity to study architecture at Hampton University, and collaborating with various leaders in the room to uplift local communities. Offering words of wisdom to the students in attendance, Rhodes concluded his remarks saying, “Whatever your dream is, just continue to pursue it. If it takes a little longer, if it follows an untraditional route, continue to pursue it. And when you are in a position — now is not too early — give back.”
MORE ABOUT RHODES:
In his role at Eastside Charter School, Rhodes supports the APEX Honors program, where 86% of students exceed state ELA standards and 64% exceed state mathematics standards, opening pathways for them to gain admission to elite private schools in Delaware.
Previously, he served as Executive Director of Christiana Cultural Arts Center (CCAC), successfully led the organization through the pandemic while retaining staff and implementing new, impactful programming. He has also held executive roles in local government, including the Director of Rehabilitation for Housing (Wilmington), Commissioner of Licensing and Inspections (Wilmington), and Sheriff Sale Coordinator (New Castle County).
With over 18 years of experience in architecture and project management, Rhodes has played a key role in construction projects across the State, including the design development and construction documentation of the $150 million Leonard Williams Justice Center in Wilmington.
A former mathematics instructor with 42 years of coaching youth basketball, Rhodes has solidified his legacy as a champion for youth empowerment. He is currently serving as Board Chairman for the Kingswood Community Center and as Vice-Chairman for REACH Riverside.
In recognition of his contributions, Rhodes has received numerous awards, including Duffy’s Hope Community Service Award, One Village Alliance’s Black History in the Making Award, and Philadelphia Region Titan 100 recognition. He was recently named to the Delaware 222 List of Most Impactful Leaders by the Delaware Business Times.
A 21-year military veteran, Rhodes holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Hampton University, a Master of Business Administration from Wesley College, and a Master’s in Teaching from Wesley College. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Public Policy Administration.
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Delaware Tech – the First State’s only community college – offers academic, technical, community education, and workforce development comprising more than 100 bachelor’s and associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs. The College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
