Major (Retired) James Munford, a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, served 20 years in the United States Air Force. He is married to Dr. Loreli Munford, M.D., and together they have two children: Dai’Jhana Munford and Dr. James Munford, Jr., M.D. In addition to his military service, he is also an author and motivational speaker.

Over the course of his two decades in uniform, Major (Ret.) Munford was assigned to seven duty locations across the Continental United States and overseas. He served in several key roles, including Communications and Computer Systems Officer, Manpower and Personnel Specialist, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard Liaison, and Air Force ROTC Instructor. His achievements were recognized through multiple commendations, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, and the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, among others.

Major (Ret.) Munford holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Computer Information Systems from Howard University, a Master of Arts in Management from Webster University, a Doctor of Ministry from Andersonville Theological Seminary, and a Doctorate in Business Administration with a concentration in Leadership from Walden University. He is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Professional, and holds an Executive Certificate in Transformational Nonprofit Leadership from the University of Notre Dame.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, Major (Ret.) Munford founded Knowledge for College, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that expands access to education for at-risk students. The organization provides free tutoring, life skills workshops, scholarship assistance, standardized test preparation, summer STEAM camps at the University of South Carolina–Sumter, and nationwide College & Career Readiness Tours. Under his direction, students have traveled to seven states and visited 45 colleges and universities. Knowledge for College also works to reduce food insecurity, supplying groceries to more than 150 families each month, and provides targeted support to Veteran families, including scholarships and, in 2025, the donation of a vehicle to a Veteran family experiencing hardship.

Major (Ret.) Munford continues his commitment to public service through multiple leadership roles. He currently serves as Chairman of the Sumter City–County Planning Commission and as a Voting Member of the Sumter Area Transportation Study, contributing to local development and infrastructure planning. He is also the President-Elect and Executive Board Member of the Kiwanis Club of Sumter, where he helps coordinate programs that benefit youth and families throughout the community.

In addition, Major Munford serves as Director of Education at Bible Outreach Ministries in Sumter, where he oversees curriculum development and educational programming. His community work includes partnerships with organizations such as the Sumter South Carolina Combat Veterans Group, Faith Strong, and Room to Read, supporting efforts in education, food assistance, and resources for Veterans and their families.