James R. “JR” Harding

JR Harding is a recognized disability leader from both personal and professional experiences. A full-time faculty member at Florida State University (FSU) College of Business, he teaches courses on workforce inclusion and leadership and serves as the faculty advisor for the University of Choice Initiative. Harding is also a two-time quadriplegic with 2 five-star Amazon rated books: “Now What?” And “ADA Adventure.” He has testified numerous times before the U.S. Congress, the Florida State Legislatures, and local governments on public policy issues that advance the independence and self-sufficiency of persons with disabilities.

Harding has served under the administration of two United States Presidents, four Florida Governors, and continuously serves on several boards that promote disability inclusion. He is the first person with a significant disability to graduate from both Leadership Florida and Leadership Tallahassee. He co-founded Florida Disability Mentoring Day and the Wheelchair Highwayman (photography with drone technology) and is known locally as the “go-to” guy for inclusion issues.

Harding completed his doctorate from Florida State University (FSU) in Higher Education and Public Policy. He and his lovely wife, Erika, live and work in Tallahassee, Florida.