WHEREAS, Mr. James V. Nixon, Jr. was born in Philadelphia and grew up in the section of Northeast Philadelphia named Camelot. As a child, he had hopes of playing professional football, but an injury ended that dream. Realizing he encountered an obstacle, he refocused, and aimed for finance and business, ultimately earning his MBA from Philadelphia University; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Nixon maintained a successful career in finance before becoming CEO of Community Council Health Systems, attracted by its mission of providing mental health and education services; and
WHEREAS, Outside of work, Mr. Nixon used his means and stature to support his passion for art and artists - especially Black and female artists. He joined the boards of several art organizations and institutions, and he and his wife formed the James and Jennifer Nixon Foundation to help carry out their art-supporting work; and
WHEREAS, Not only did Mr. Nixon put his money where his heart was, buying art and lending it to institutions so it could be shown, but he personally took Black artists under his wing, helping them network, exhibit their work, and pursue a path to success; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Nixon is loved not only by his family but many members of the art community. “The best part of being selected to be included in his collection was you immediately gained an art champion and cheerleader!” said artist Lavett Ballard. “Jim became not just a collector, not just a friend, but he and his family became part of my extended family”; and
WHEREAS, William Valerio, CEO of the Woodmere Art Museum, called Mr. Nixon “a champion for change in our museums,” and said “It is no exaggeration to describe that through his support and love, he made Philadelphia a better place for artists, especially for Black artists”; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Nixon is survived by his wife, daughters Jamie and Christina, his son Charles, his mother, his sister, and a granddaughter. He will be greatly missed by family and friends; now, therefore, be it.
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors the life and legacy of James V. Nixon, Jr. and recognizes his impact on the Philadelphia arts and culture community.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Mr. Nixon’s family as a sincere expression of the Philadelphia City Council’s respect, gratitude, and recognition.
End