James Gray is a prominent figure in the tech industry and startup community, recognized as one of Time magazine's "31 People Changing the South." A Liberty Fellow and consultant, he is the CEO and founder of DIG SOUTH Tech Media, DIG SOUTH Tech Summit, and DIG NATION membership group. With an MA in Southern Studies from the University of Mississippi and a BA in English Literature from the University of South Carolina-Honors College, he combines his love of culture and communication to drive the South's digital economy forward. His experience includes directing the media relations and strategic communications departments at the College of Charleston, serving on the Charleston Gaillard Center's Artistic Programming Committee, and being a board member, secretary, and Flourish Council chair at Lowcountry Land Trust. A former adjunct faculty member at the College of Charleston and Sweet Tea Recording Studio's studio manager, Gray has a diverse background and is known for his expertise in growth strategy, community building, and ecosystem development.