Tate, Wright Appointed to College's Board of Trustees

Aug. 15, 2025 - James Tate and Jim Wright were appointed to Richmond Community College’s Board of Trustees and attended their first meeting on Aug. 5.

Tate of Rockingham was appointed by the N.C. State Senate, and Wright, also of Rockingham, was appointed by the N.C. House of Representatives.

James Tate

Tate is an experienced leader in healthcare, serving as Enterprise Client Executive – Government Business for Philips Healthcare for the last 11 years.

“I have worked clinically, technically, administratively within major hospital systems for 18 years and 23 years on the commercial side of healthcare,” Tate said. “I have knowledge in medical aspects, management and business within the healthcare industry at high levels.”

Tate brings this experience in planning and solution development to his position as a Trustee.

“I feel Richmond CC can have a major positive impact on the lives of students and our community as a whole. The knowledge and skills developed at RichmondCC will benefit them and future employers throughout their careers,” Tate said.

Tate started his higher education journey at technical college in South Carolina before transferring to a university.

“I understand how this approach can benefit students economically and practically,” Tate said. 

Tate earned a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology/Nuclear Medicine Technology from the Medical University of South Carolina. He served as President of the South Carolina Society of Nuclear Medicine and was a member of the South Carolina Society of Radiologic Technologists and the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. In addition to serving on several other medical boards, Tate is a Mason, a Shriner and a member of Nazareth 41, Knights Templar Commandery.

Tate and his wife, Collette, have been married for 23 years. They have five adult children within their blended family.

Jim Wright

Wright is a Control Systems Manager at Trinity Manufacturing in Hamlet, where he has worked for 15 years.

“My responsibilities at Trinity have matured throughout the years and provided me with a sense of ownership for the growth of a successful company,” Wright said.

As a Board of Trustee, Wright hopes to bring a fresh and practical perspective while focusing on innovation and problem-solving. 

“My background has allowed me to approach problems analytically and creatively, and I hope to apply this mindset during board discussions. I am eager to contribute my technical experience, industry perspective and commitment to growth to the college’s ongoing mission,” he said.

Wright graduated from the North Carolina State University in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in Biomolecular Engineering, which is a concentration of Chemical Engineering that focuses on the field of Biotechnology.

Wright, however, has been a student at RichmondCC. During the summers prior to his junior and senior years at NC State, he enrolled in general education classes at RichmondCC that would transfer back to his home university.

“Serving as a Trustee is a great responsibility that can help guide and shape the outlook of Richmond Community College. Trustees help ensure the standards of the college are upheld and the long-term vision is strong and clear,” Wright said.

Outside of work, Wright enjoys the outdoors, playing golf, going to church and spending time with his family.

“Every day, I am inspired and motivated by my wife, Rebecca, and daughters, McKenzie and Caroline,” Wright said.