Elizabeth James is the Program Manager for the Department of Afroamerican and African Studies at the University of Michigan (DAAS). She is a native Detroiter with degrees from the University of Michigan in the History of Art, Communications and a Master's in Journalism. She also holds a Masters of Science in Library Science from Wayne State University along with post-graduate study in the School of Information at U-M.Elizabeth assists with implementing the department's many programs, as well as performs as its outreach coordinator including international study abroad programs, and outreach initiatives across the country. She also serves as a committee member on the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Symposium, the largest academic celebration in the nation.
Elizabeth most cherishes her time as a third generation storyteller sharing tales with a wide variety of audiences, along with serving as an adviser for U-M's Black Student Union and the National Council of Negro Women and working with Camp Michitanki, the U-M's Transplant Center for young recipients like herself. Elizabeth has been awarded the University of Michigan's highest honor for diversity issues, the Harold R. Johnson Diversity Service Award, as well as the Adviser of the Year by the Office of Student Affairs and has the Black Student Union's Elizabeth James Award named for her given to students who excel in academic and service, yet are unsung heroes on campus. the Cornerstone Award from the Black Celebratory among other honors for her service and dedication to the student community.