Thorndale ISD

James Grimm, Class of 1962, was an active and accomplished student during his time at Thorndale High School. He participated in football, earning All-District honors, as well as baseball and track. In addition to athletics, James was heavily involved in FFA, serving as an Area Officer and earning his Lone Star Degree. These experiences helped build a strong foundation for a lifetime of leadership and service in agriculture.

Following graduation, James began his professional career with the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), where he served as an Inspector for 20 years and eventually retired as Chief Inspector. He later became Executive Vice President of the Texas Poultry Federation, where he played a pivotal role in expanding the poultry industry across the state.

During his tenure, poultry processing capacity in Texas more than doubled, increasing from six million to more than fourteen million chickens per week. Egg layer capacity also grew significantly, rising from twelve million to over twenty-three million. This growth helped establish Texas as the fifth-largest poultry-producing state in the nation and reinforced the importance of agricultural education to sustain and grow the industry for future generations.

James was also instrumental in the development of the AGVENTURE exhibits at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, and the Austin Rodeo. These interactive exhibits were designed to provide agricultural experiences for individuals who may not otherwise have exposure to farming and livestock production, helping bridge the gap between urban communities and the agricultural industry.

Throughout his career, James consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to education and community service. He has been actively involved in numerous advisory boards and committees, including the Texas Animal Health Commission, the Texas Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, the Texas State Chemist’s Feed and Fertilizer Control Service, and the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board. He also served as an advisor for the Texas A&M Poultry Science Department and as a committee member for the EPA Region 6 and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Animal Waste Committee. In addition, James is a member of the Texas Agricultural Council and served as a director for both the Texas High School Rodeo Association and the Youth Rodeo Association.

James’s service extended beyond agriculture. He was appointed by President George W. Bush to the FBI–Homeland Security Task Force and later appointed by Governor Rick Perry to the DPS–Homeland Security Task Force, reflecting his dedication to public service and safety at both the state and national levels. He has also been a longtime member of the Brenham Elks Lodge for over 30 years, where he served on the Board of Directors, Scholarship Committee, and Golf Fundraiser Committee.

His dedication to supporting students has remained a constant throughout his career. James played a key role in establishing the Texas Poultry Allied Scholarship Program, which provides financial support to Poultry Science students at Texas A&M University and Stephen F. Austin State University. Since its inception, the program has awarded more than $700,000 in scholarships. In recognition of his long-term commitment to agriculture, the poultry industry, and student education, the James and Walline Grimm Endowed Scholarship was established in 2019.

When asked about his fondest memory of Thorndale, James shared that it was simply being with his classmates and enjoying their friendship. His advice to current students reflects that same sentiment: stay in touch with your classmates, because as you get older, you will cherish that time together.

James Grimm’s life and career stand as a powerful example of how a strong foundation in education, leadership, and service can lead to lasting impact, not only within an industry, but across communities and generations.