Jim O'Connor

Jim O'Connor brings a lifetime of diverse experience and a passion for inclusivity to his role as Vice President of the Board at Promise Landing Farm. Jim is also a member of the Board of Directors for the Taishoff Family Foundation and serves as a senior vice president for philanthropy for TFF and a senior advisor at PLF. He retired in 2018 as Executive Director of International Development at Syracuse University, where he worked closely with Trustee Rob Taishoff to establish the Lawrence B. Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education and InclusiveU in the School of Education.

Jim's extensive career includes serving as a communications director in the House of Representatives, a newspaper reporter, editor, and foreign correspondent, as well as owning and publishing a weekly newspaper near Rochester, New York. His commitment to effective communication and advocacy is underscored by his background as a journalist and congressional communications director.

A decorated veteran, Jim served as an enlisted specialist in the US Army from 1968 to 1971, completing two tours in Vietnam. His military service is a testament to his dedication and resilience.

Jim's enthusiasm for spreading the news on how inclusivity benefits society drives his work at Promise Landing Farm. He is deeply committed to the farm's mission of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. His wealth of experience in journalism, communications, and philanthropy makes him an invaluable asset to the Promise Landing Farm community.