Biography

Jamie and his family have lived in Alabaster since 1998. He has served as a director and officer with the Alabaster Arts Council and is one of the key organizers of Alabaster CityFest, including artist relations, marketing and media. he has often represented Alabaster on local TV and radio as part of the event. He also serves on the Alabaster City Schools Foundation board of directors. 

Jamie began his professional career at Progressive Farmer magazine, where he was Managing Editor and helped guide the magazine’s print and digital efforts, including the popular “Best Places To Live In Rural America” program. He is currently Creative Director and partner in Red Barn Media Group, a small marketing business focused on rural life and agriculture, and works from his home office in Ward 5.

Aside from civic and professional work, Jamie serves on the board of directors for the American Agricultural Editors' Association and the Alabama Governor’s School (where he also teaches journalism every summer), and leads worship at his church.

Education & Experience

Jamie graduated from Jacksonville State University. He was the John C. Turner Outstanding Graduate in Communication, and served as president of the Jacksonville chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists and as Editor in Chief of JSU’s award-winning student newspaper, The Chanticleer. He also taught interactive journalism courses at JSU. He received a master’s degree in Journalism at the University of Alabama, and also received the department’s Outstanding Graduate Student award. He taught in the University of Alabama’s College of Communication and is a member of the school’s Institute for Communication and Information Research Advisory Board.

Family

Jamie's wife, Charissa, is principal at Creek View Elementary School in Alabaster. They have one son, Sullivan, who attends Alabaster City Schools.

Facebook - facebook.com/jcolealabaster
Twitter - @jamiecole