A tech veteran turns miles into scholarships and multigenerational uplift

James Devine, a Miami-born software engineer with a four-decade career and a rock‑solid foundation from Florida A&M University, has quietly become a linchpin in the Atlanta HBCU Alumni Alliance 5K run. His journey merges technical expertise, institutional loyalty and civic stewardship into a single, resonant legacy.

Devine’s early steps began with his FAMU diploma in Computer Information Systems (1985) and later a master’s from Georgia State in Managing Information Systems (2011). But it is his deep connection to HBCU culture—and commitment to paying it forward—that truly sets him apart.

Engineering Community: Tech Meets Service

Devine applies the discipline he developed in software engineering—attention to detail, process orientation and problem‑solving—to civic efforts. His leadership is rooted in structure but fuelled by heartfelt purpose. From organizing youth sports to feeding the underserved, he blends technical acumen with neighborhood-first action.

Building Scholarships Through Every Step

As a life member of Omega Psi Phi and FAMU’s national alumni association—and more importantly, as a family man—Devine channels his time, energy and network into creating opportunities. Atlanta’s HBCU 5K run is one of his proudest platforms: an annual tradition raising vital funds for students often navigating the path as first‑generation scholars.

Roots of the Run: A Collaborative Spark

The Atlanta HBCU Alumni Alliance emerged in 2004 after Devine proposed a mixers-and-recruitment event that galvanized eight alumni chapters into a united front. That evolving synergy gave rise to signature initiatives, including the 5K Run/Walk—now held every June and drawing thousands in celebration of scholarship, health, and connection.

Impact in Motion: Empowerment by Miles

In recent editions, the HBCU 5K has raised well over six figures in scholarship funds, with thousands joining in foot races, community festivals and family fellowship. Alumni tents brim with energy, schools rally with spirited pride, and the event becomes a microcosm of HBCU culture—lifelong, communal, aspirational.

Legacy, Leadership, Liftoff: devinepurpose

With devine purpose as his guiding star, James Devine has woven together history, service, and institutional pride. He exemplifies the enduring ethos of HBCUs: uplift, unity, scholarship, and celebration. And every year, stride by stride, the community moves forward—not just toward a finish line, but toward a brighter academic horizon.