James Banks: A Life Dedicated to Service, Justice, and Education
For over two decades, Professor James Banks was a guiding force at Moreno Valley College (MVC) and a dedicated advocate for students and the broader community. His career was defined not by titles or accolades but by his impact on the lives of those he mentored, the initiatives he led, and the core values he instilled in his students. As a distinguished professor in the Human Services Department, Professor Banks tirelessly advanced the future of social work and human services in the Inland Empire.
Professor Banks' journey to MVC was guided by a deep commitment to helping others—a calling that began early in life. Raised in a family committed to community service, his mother managed a nutrition site for seniors, where he began working as a child, delivering meals on his red Huffy bike with a basket. "I learned how to listen to people and treat them with dignity and respect, no matter their circumstances," Banks reflected. "The elderly people I met gave me valuable advice and taught me lessons I still carry today." These early experiences taught him invaluable lessons in empathy, respect, and the importance of dignity in service to others. Despite not having a formal degree, his mother was the healer of their neighborhood, and through her, Banks learned the essence of social work. "I learned everything about social work by watching her," he said.
Throughout his career, Professor Banks addressed numerous social issues, from developing an AIDS wing at Cedars-Sinai Hospital to working with marginalized groups such as gang members, senior citizens, athletes, prisoners, and individuals facing substance abuse challenges. These experiences enriched his work at MVC, where he played a crucial role in developing a program that became one of California's most respected in its field. Known for its academic rigor and strong foundation, the Human Services program helped prepare students for higher education and meaningful careers.
"Professor Banks changed my life! It was an honor to be one of his students," one student shared. Another described him as “one of the best professors I’ve ever had,” adding, “He cared about all his students and would help you if you were struggling in the class.”
A hallmark of Professor Banks' time at MVC was his advocacy for underserved populations. He founded the MVC Food Bank and Clothing Closet, established the Renaissance Scholars Program (now Umoja), created the Human Services Club, and initiated numerous community outreach programs, including holiday giveaways and celebrations for Veterans, Mother's Day, and Father's Day. His philosophy of service and advocacy stemmed from his upbringing and deep commitment to social justice. It was no wonder that, under his leadership, MVC’s Human Services program was recognized as one of the most comprehensive in California among community colleges.
Banks' approach to mentoring earned him a reputation as a caring and motivational figure. "He genuinely wanted you to succeed," one student noted. "He motivated all his students and encouraged them to further their education. He was funny. I was sad Fall 2024 was his last semester as he retired. The impact he had on the Human Services Program will be carried on by his successors."
He emphasized integrity, loyalty, and respect for others. "I always thought outside the box," Banks said. "You can't be conventional; success requires hard work and standing by your virtues." Among these, he strongly believed in truth, encouraging students to embrace it wholeheartedly.
He also inspired students to pursue their own dreams and stop worrying about others' judgments. “You don't have to follow the path that’s laid out for you,” he often told them. "If you believe in yourself and put in the work, you can create your own path. Fear keeps you where you are; faith moves you forward.”
In recognition of his lifetime of service, James Banks was honored at the 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Breakfast, where he received the MVC Legacy Award. This recognition was a fitting tribute to his decades of dedication to social justice and community service. It reflected the deep respect and admiration MVC and the Moreno Valley community held for his work.
As he enters the next phase of his career, Professor Banks hopes for the continued growth of the Human Services program. He aspires for the program to remain rigorous and academically challenging, ensuring students are well-prepared to serve families and individuals in need. His legacy of mentorship and social advocacy has laid a solid foundation for the future of human services at MVC. Professor Banks’ commitment to empowering students to return as educators after earning their degrees exemplifies the lasting impact he hopes to make. He fulfilled a promise to his students, saying, 'If they got their master’s degrees, they could come back and teach at MVC.' Many of those students are now contributing to the field."
Ultimately, Professor Banks' legacy extends far beyond MVC, defined by his lasting impact on those he inspired to make a difference in the world. Rooted in compassion, service, and social justice, his philosophy will continue to guide future generations. As he moves forward into the next chapter, Professor Banks' life and work remain a source of hope and inspiration for future generations.