In collaboration with the 2024 Advocacy Dinner and Awards Ceremony Partner, Aetna Better Health® of Florida, we presented the inaugural Children's Week Florida™ Impact Advocate Award on February 26, to James R. Haj for his dedicated efforts and service to children and families across Miami-Dade County.

James R. Haj joined The Children’s Trust as president and CEO in April 2016. With Mr. Haj at the helm, The Trust has enjoyed one of its most successful periods. Trust investment in programs and services for children and families in Miami-Dade County has risen to its highest levels. At the same time, administrative expenses dropped to their lowest percentage in the organization’s history. He also led The Trust through the unprecedented challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, expanding funding for emergency assistance programs, strengthening neighborhood supports and serving as an essential voice for children and families during unprecedented hardships.

While leading The Trust, Mr. Haj has received numerous honors and accolades, including being inducted into the Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) Alumni Hall of Fame in 2023 for his professional achievements and devotion to helping children succeed in the community. Also in 2023, Mr. Haj received the Florida State University Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Education, Health and Human Services. In 2022, Mr. Haj received the prestigious MCCJ Silver Medallion Award, given to leaders who have made outstanding contributions to our community.

A lifelong educator, Mr. Haj started his career in Miami as a teacher, became a middle and high school principal, and eventually worked as assistant superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, before joining The Trust.

Mr. Haj received an MBA in Business Management from the University of Miami and a BS in education from Florida State University. He and his wife, Karen, are parents of three children.