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Grace James has been a trusted face in ����ɫ��ҹ Recreation and Wellness Services for years, and her impact has been recognized beyond the pool deck. She is a graduate student pursuing a Master of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a concentration in Global Security. Additionally, she has earned her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a minor in Pre-Law and a concentration in Policing. Her dedication to academics reflects the commitment and leadership she brings to her role as an Aquatics Lead.

Grace has been familiar with the RecWell department, working in Aquatics since the fall of 2022. As a first-year student, she quickly found her place with her colleagues and supervisors. Over time, she’s taken responsibility for managing daily pool schedules, lifeguard rotations, and swim lessons, while also overseeing safety audits and leading in - service trainings for staff. Grace helps ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all patrons with her key role in Aquatics. Including training fresh staff on safety procedures, facility policies, and customer expectations. 

For 2024-25, Grace was named Aquatics Student Employee of the Year. Being recognized for her leadership and dedication, she mentions that the most rewarding part of the job has always been the people. From lasting friendships formed through Aquatics like Julia Fike (SRC Secretary) to daily interactions with patrons, Grace values the close relationships she has built throughout her time here. She especially enjoys seeing her fellow employees grow, as well as herself. It reminds her of one of her favorite moments when she interviewed a student and now sees them fit to take on her role after Grace’s graduation and departure. 

Working in Aquatics has helped Grace develop highly transferable skills, even beyond the workplace. She’s improved her critical thinking abilities through mock emergencies and problem-solving, learning how to perform under pressure and make quick decisions. Grace also shares the experience of improving her communication, teamwork, and time management skills – all related to instructing children, collaborating with colleagues, and communicating with or aiding patrons and parents. 

Grace describes a time as a Water Safety Instructor where she helped a child with a mental disability who struggled to complete a swim level. She made it a personal goal to help him pass that level, and by the end of the session, he did. “It was a great relief that he was able to pass”, and she describes this as one of her most meaningful moments on the job. 

Outside of RecWell, Grace is a member of the Criminal Justice Honors Society and has recently received the Outstanding Criminology & Justice Studies Senior Award. Being commended for her academic excellence and leadership.

For students considering a role in Aquatics, she offers them simple but powerful advice: “Go into it with an open mind. You can’t be close-minded at RecWell – you must be willing to grow as a leader and learn from those around you.”