HPU Adds Neen James to Access to Innovators Program as Expert in Residence

HIGH POINT, N.C., May 13, 2025 – Neen James, a globally recognized leadership strategist and luxury expert, has joined High Point University’s Access to Innovators program as its Expert in Residence.

Renowned for her work with some of the world’s most influential executives, James has redefined leadership by applying the principles of luxury — attention, personalization and deep human connection. She has collaborated with leaders at companies such as Viacom, Comcast and Virtuoso Travel.

In her new book, “Exceptional Experiences: Five Luxury Levers to Elevate Every Aspect of Your Business,” James shares her insights on why luxury is more than exclusivity. She suggests it’s about creating transformational experiences.

“At High Point University, we set ourselves apart as The Premier Life Skills University, and we appreciate Neen James’ expertise on leadership and transformational experiences,” HPU President Nido Qubein said. “She has led an extremely successful career, and our students will gain valuable insights learning from her.”

Working with leaders from the luxury travel, hospitality, financial services and real estate industries, James said she has noticed distinctive traits that set exceptional executives apart and make them remarkable. Those traits include clear vision, confidence, curiosity and communication.

“I’m beyond excited to join this impressive lineup of global innovators mentoring the amazing students at High Point University as its new Expert in Residence,” James said. “I’ve always believed luxury isn’t about expensive things — it’s about creating experiences that make people feel seen, heard and valued. In my work with luxury and legacy brands around the world, I’ve had the joy of helping leaders create special moments that clients remember forever. I can’t wait to share these strategies with the wonderful HPU students as part of the Access to Innovators program. Together, we’ll use my Experience Elevation Model to create those transformational extraordinary moments that Dr. Qubein is famous for—turning the everyday into the exceptional. I just know we’re going to have a blast making luxury come alive on this beautiful campus.”

James joins several other global leaders who mentor students as part of HPU’s Access to Innovators program, including:

• Steve Wozniak, Apple co-founder and HPU’s Innovator in Residence
• Marc Randolph, Netflix co-founder and HPU’s Entrepreneur in Residence
• Mark Bradburn, founder and co-managing financial advisor of The Bradburn Group at Morgan Stanley and HPU’s Wealth Management Innovator in Residence
• Cynt Marshall, former CEO of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks and HPU’s Sports Executive in Residence
• Russell Weiner, CEO of Domino’s and HPU’s Corporate Executive in Residence
• Sue Downes, CEO and co-founder of MyEyeDr. and HPU’s Health Care Expert in Residence
• Dr. Ellen Zane, former CEO of Tufts Medical Center and HPU’s Health Care Executive in Residence