Walking the Beat, Building the Future: The Leadership Legacy of Dr. James E. Combs Jr.

When you hear the name Dr. James E. Combs Jr., the image that emerges is not just of a decorated law enforcement veteran or a respected educator—but of a man who has lived a life of courageous leadership, unwavering service, and purposeful mentorship. Born and raised in Dayton, Ohio, Dr. Combs has transformed every challenge into a stepping stone, forging a legacy defined by community impact, personal growth, and an unshakable commitment to lifting others.

Dr. Combs’ journey to leadership began on the streets—not in politics or a boardroom—but in service to his country and community. As a U.S. Army veteran and a dedicated officer with the Dayton Police Department for over 25 years, he learned early that leadership is less about authority and more about responsibility. “I knew I wanted to create change from within,” Dr. Combs reflects. “Being a community-based officer taught me to lead with empathy, not ego.” This perspective became the bedrock of his approach as he transitioned from policing to mentoring future generations.

But Dr. Combs’ path was far from easy. “There were times when I felt like my voice wasn’t heard, when being a Black man in law enforcement came with weighty contradictions,” he shares. Yet it was in these moments of silence that he chose to rise. He turned those struggles into platforms—building a Public Safety Program at David H. Ponitz Career High School and Central State University, and later becoming an Intervention Specialist at City Day Community School. His leadership isn’t confined to classrooms or precincts—it pulses through every student, mentee, and community initiative he touches.

Among his most treasured accomplishments are the three books he authored: Developing A Parent Plan, Jimmy’Os Cookbook, and Footprints to Abuse. These works offer a window into his values—family, faith, resilience, and transformation. They also reflect the power of storytelling in shaping not just minds, but movements. “Books outlive us,” Dr. Combs says, “and if they carry even a spark of truth and guidance, then they serve a purpose greater than me.”

He credits much of his success to mentors who modeled integrity and sacrifice, especially within the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and his Masonic Lodge. These communities were instrumental in shaping his belief that leadership must be rooted in service. “They taught me that greatness isn’t what you gather, but what you give away.”

His impact is visible across Dayton—from mentoring at-risk youth through Boys & Girls Clubs to providing resources for aspiring law enforcement professionals. Through it all, Dr. Combs remains grounded by his core values: accountability, compassion, and perseverance. These principles guide his daily work and interactions, both as a leader and as a father.

To aspiring leaders, Dr. Combs offers this: “Don’t lead for the applause—lead for the legacy. You may never see the full impact of your work, but trust that it matters.” He urges readers to stay connected to their communities and never underestimate the power of showing up.

As he looks to the future, Dr. Combs hopes to expand his mentorship work and continue writing to empower families and professionals alike. “I want my life to be a footprint, not a monument,” he says. “A footprint invites others to walk the same path—and to lead with courage.”

In a world yearning for authentic leadership, Dr. James E. Combs Jr. stands tall—not just as a man of rank or degrees, but as a builder of futures. His life reminds us that leadership isn’t about where you start, but how you serve.

About Dr. James E. Combs Jr.

Dr. James E. Combs Jr., a native of Dayton, Ohio, is a decorated U.S. Army veteran, retired law enforcement officer, author, and educator. With over 25 years of service in the Dayton Police Department, he pioneered public safety programs and mentored future leaders in both high school and collegiate settings. Dr. Combs holds degrees from the University of Cincinnati, Antioch University McGregor, Wright State University, and a doctorate in Criminal Justice from Atlanta University. Currently serving as an Intervention Specialist at City Day Community School, he continues to advocate for at-risk youth, author transformative books, and guide aspiring professionals through his community involvement. Driven by service, leadership, and faith, Dr. Combs is building a legacy of impact that spans generations.