About PFE
Led by Vision. Rooted in Impact.
At Positioned for Excellence Leadership Academy, we believe leadership, learning, and legacy go hand in hand. Founded and led by Dr. Gabrielle James and Mrs. Pamela W. James, we bring over 60 years of combined experience in education, leadership, and community impact.
Our work is grounded in a multigenerational legacy of educational excellence, inspired by Dr. Gabrielle’s great-grandmother, Rosa S. Capps—a dedicated educator who served for over 42 years after graduating from Bethune-Cookman College in the 1920s. Her commitment to service, equity, and lifelong learning continues to shape our mission.
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​​Together, Dr. Gabrielle and Mrs. Pamela have served as classroom teachers, administrators, instructional coaches, and leadership mentors—each with a deep passion for developing people and transforming systems. Their collective expertise is the foundation of every program, partnership, and training we offer.
We equip organizations, schools, and individuals with practical tools to solve real-world challenges—through training, coaching, and purpose-driven programming. Whether we’re guiding students through leadership development, supporting schools with strategic partnerships, or helping professionals grow into impactful change-makers, our goal remains the same: to position people and communities for lasting excellence.
HI, I'M DR. GABRIELLE
E. James
With over 20 years in education and training, I’ve worked as a classroom teacher, instructional designer, program manager, and now as a software development trainer in the federal government—leading enterprise-level learning initiatives that support system adoption and user success. I hold a Doctorate of Management in Organizational Leadership, and my passion lies in helping students think critically, lead confidently, and achieve meaningful outcomes. As cofounder of Positioned for Excellence, I design programs that drive real results with students—empowering them to grow as purpose-driven leaders prepared to make lasting impact.
Wright- James
HI, I'M MRS. PAMELA
With over 45 years in public education, I’ve served as a teacher, speech pathologist, assistant principal, and principal—leading schools with a deep commitment to student success and staff development.
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Today, I continue to mentor current and aspiring principals, sharing insights gained through decades of hands-on leadership. As a cofounder of Positioned for Excellence, I bring my experience and passion for cultivating strong school cultures to every partnership we form. I believe in empowering educators, inspiring excellence, and creating lasting impact in every learning community I serve.
Our Legacy
Inspired by Rosa Stephens Capps
At Positioned for Excellence Leadership Academy, we believe every leader starts with a story—and ours begins with a remarkable woman named Rosa Stephens Capps. Her life reminds us that no matter where you begin, with determination and support, you can rise, lead, and create lasting impact.
Born in 1911 in Americus, Georgia, Rosa grew up during a time when educational opportunities for African-Americans were limited. In her hometown, there was no high school available for Black students. However, Rosa was determined to learn. With the help of her aunt—who washed and ironed clothes to support her dreams—Rosa moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where she attended high school at Edward Waters College, one of the few institutions offering secondary education for Black students at the time.
After earning her high school diploma, Rosa continued her studies at Bethune-Cookman College in Daytona Beach, Florida, during the 1920s. She studied under the leadership of the legendary Mary McLeod Bethune, who believed education was the key to empowerment. With continued support from her aunt, Rosa pursued and received her undergraduate degree from Bethune-Cookman College, and later earned a graduate degree from Florida A&M University. She became a lifelong learner and a model of perseverance—proving that with dedication and support, anything is possible.
Rosa went on to teach in Cocoa, Florida, where she spent 42 years as an educator. She didn’t just teach lessons—she shaped lives. Many of her students became doctors, lawyers, principals, city leaders, and community changemakers—all touched by Rosa’s belief in their potential.
One of those students was her granddaughter, Mrs. Pamela W. James, who now co-leads the Positioned for Excellence Leadership Academy. Rosa’s legacy lives on in every student we serve and every program we lead. She showed us that education, when fueled by love and belief, can change generations.
​Her journey is our foundation—and her spirit continues to guide us as we prepare today’s students to become tomorrow’s leaders.