Dedicated to public service, James "Jim" Holden currently serves as the chief deputy treasurer and general counsel for the Indiana State Treasurer and as a major in the 38th Infantry Division of the Indiana Army National Guard. Jim Holden further contributes to his community as an adjunct professor of legal studies and political science at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI).

In a recent press release, IUPUI announced that the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching awarded the school the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification for 2015. This classification is bestowed on universities and colleges that have fostered mutually beneficial relationships with nearby communities and local organizations. In addition to local partnerships, the designation recognizes the university students and faculty who continually strive to improve the quality of live in their communities and surrounding areas.

Since IUPUI earned its initial Carnegie Communication Classification in 2006, the university has intensified its commitment to initiatives that encourage engaged student learning and community partnerships. IUPUI’s local and global community engagement efforts have become increasingly widespread, and the university currently works with numerous centers and faculty initiatives. For future projects, IUPUI will focus on topics like competitive workforce development and student achievement advancement.