James Allison

Hometown: Lexington

Education: James is a graduate of the University of Kentucky.

Community Support: James serves with the Baptist Health Lexington Auxiliary and has served with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Rotary Club of Lexington, the Kentucky Broadcasters Association, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Lexington, Sales and Marketing Executives of Lexington and the Lexington Advertising Club.

Occupation: James is retired from his position as Vice President of Georgetown College. He previously served as Station Relations Manager for WLEX-TV, Lexington, News Director for WLEX-TV, Vice President and General Manager of WLAP AM/FM Radio, Lexington and in several commercial broadcasting positions in the 1960s.

Family: James is married to his wife Rosa and has two children.

Why is volunteerism important to the wellbeing of the community? As a member of the Rotary Club of Lexington, I was always encouraged to put service above self. But while that membership was an encouragement for community participation, I found community service to be most enjoyable, especially interacting with other community leaders to provide benefits to organizations and individuals.

What is the role that healthcare has played in your life or the lives of your family, friends or neighbors? My family has been fortunate to have had good health. An incident in 2018, however, necessitated my wife's admittance to Baptist Health Lexington, both ICU and regular floor, and provided insight to the high quality care afforded to patients by this institution. In addition, I have a cancer diagnosis for which I receive excellent care and treatment through the Baptist Health Lexington Cancer Center and specifically Dr. Firas Badin and Lindsey Page. I elected to seek opportunities to provide what support I can through Auxiliary volunteerism and to help spread the word about the wonderful care afforded through Baptist Health Lexington.

Today, who or what are you most grateful for? I am grateful for life, my wonderful family, an excellent education, exciting employment opportunities, and the many, many marvelous associates who have challenged me to better lead and serve.