Educational and developmental psychology plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of learning and leadership, both in the classroom and beyond. Professionals in this field work tirelessly to understand the cognitive, emotional and social development of individuals.
James W. Greig II, PhD, is a case in point. He has devoted his career to the advancement of these disciplines and has left a significant impact in both civilian and military educational settings.
Buoyed by a Foundation in Education and Military Service
Dr. Greig graduated with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Cornell University in 1974, followed by two master’s degrees — one in counseling from Ball State University in 1980 and another in philosophy from the University of Colorado Boulder in 1985. He eventually earned a doctorate in educational and developmental psychology from Capella University in 2008.
His early life also included leadership roles in student organizations. “Being involved in leadership roles during college set the stage for my career,” Dr. Greig said. After earning his degree in philosophy, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he served from 1975 to 1998. His military experience provided an additional strong foundation in leadership and educational development.
A Distinguished Career in Education and Military Service
Dr. Greig’s career has spanned both military and educational settings. He served in various leadership roles within the U.S. Air Force, where he held positions such as chief of the training division and director of the analysis division. These roles helped him develop a keen understanding of the psychological aspects of leadership, training, and operational efficiency.
After retiring from the U.S. Air Force in 1998, Dr. Greig served as an education officer and counselor at multiple U.S. Air Force installations. He eventually became the chief learning officer for the Air Mobility Command from 2016 to 2017.
“It was in the U.S. Air Force that I honed my understanding of how psychology, training and education intersect,” Dr. Greig said. “The military’s emphasis on discipline and leadership principles helped shape my professional approach to education.”
For his exemplary service, Dr. Greig was awarded several medals while on active duty and two civilian service awards during his period of civil service. He was additionally recognized by Marquis Who’s Who with inclusion in their prestigious biographical listings.
Making an Impact as an Educator
In 2010, Dr. Greig began his role as an adjunct instructor at Grand Canyon University, a position he still holds today. His background in educational and developmental psychology has significantly shaped his teaching approach. He mentors and guides students toward academic and professional success.
Dr. Greig’s teaching philosophy is rooted in his military experiences and his academic journey. “I strive to bring my real-world experiences into the classroom. I want my students to understand that the challenges they face are growth opportunities — just as they were for me.”
A Commitment to Leadership and Mentorship
Dr. Greig’s commitment to mentorship extends beyond the classroom. He has been actively involved in professional organizations, including the American Psychological Association and the Society of Psychologists in Management. He has also served as the vice president of the Council on Occupational Education’s Federal Agency Community of Practice.
Dr. Greig insists that “whether in the military, academia or civilian life, leadership is about helping others grow and succeed.” His goal is to inspire others to reach their full potential.
Looking Forward: Continuing to Educate and Inspire
A true educator at heart, Dr. Greig looks forward to expanding his impact in academia. He wants to continue teaching and mentoring while embodying his belief in lifelong learning and the value of passing on knowledge to the next generation.
Dr. Greig’s legacy in educational psychology, coupled with his military and academic achievements, continues to shape the future of higher education and leadership development.
