His belief that a mistake is a teachable moment resulted in his success.

Where are you now?

James grew up surround ed by brilliant musicians like his grandparents who shared stories about touring the world with Nat King Cole and other jazz greats - unwritten treasures whose value he realizes now more than ever. His grandparents were known in Cleveland as "Mr. and Mrs. 88 Keys." Their oral history resonated with him. However, the pain and frustration about their struggle to get by, coupled with the fact that they were deprived of the fruits of their talents, lit a fire in him to make a difference. He was inspired to become the person who made sure that artists are financially protected and have a real path for professional success. 

Today, James is the founder of his New York City law firm, James E. McMillan, P.C., where he represents many top artists and popular brands. He mentors law students who wish to pursue entertainment law and has trained over 30 young attorneys to date. Currently, he is co-writing a book that he hopes will instill the truths that "failure is a teachable moment" and "one must be honest with oneself in order to truly grow and improve." 

What Shaker schools did you attend?

James transferred to Shaker after living in East Cleveland and attending several private schools. He started in the Shaker schools in the 5th grade at Mercer. Then he moved to Byron Jr. High for 7-9th grades and the high school for 10-12th grades.

James enjoyed the diversity of Shaker's student body. He loved the social network of the kids who surrounded him. He felt that Shaker groomed students for success and provided a diverse environment conducive to learning and collaborating with others who come from different experiences and backgrounds. These experiences prepared him for life outside of Shaker.

How did the Shaker Schools prepare you for your future?

Shaker taught James how to work hard and fostered a sense of confidence that he could achieve his dreams. He learned how to persevere and understood that future success could result even after failure along the away. Shaker taught him the value of education. School was seen as a tool to stay competitive and to achieve future success. 

Do you have a favorite teacher or educator from Shaker?

Ms. Birdsong, his English teacher, will always be one of his favorite teachers from his entire educational career. James took advanced classes where he frequently found himself the sole African American student. Ms. Birdsong took the time to mentor students like James who she believed showed promise. She made sure that he had the support he needed to work to his potential. This attention and support helped him develop confidence which he took with him as he achieved further accomplishments.

What did you do after graduation?

After Shaker, James went to college and law school. He entered college more mature and better prepared than most incoming freshmen largely due to the Shaker experience. 

James studied hard, but it was not easy. There was failure along the way. In pursuit of his goal to become an entertainment lawyer, he continued to law school in Houston. As a young man surrounded by older classmates, he quickly realized that he was not ready. He stumbled and had to put his legal education on hold for two years, but fortunately, the dean of the law school helped him to return and finish his degree. This time, James coupled hard work and diligence with laser-sharp focus, which led to success. After earning his J.D., he secured a clerkship in Washington, DC and a year-long position at a law firm. He was then ready to start his own firm.

James continues to work hard for his artist clients as their advocate, and in some cases, as mentor. We look forward to James McMillan returning to Shaker to share his inspiring messages with the next generation!