Dr. James Parks
Dr. James Parks
Dr. Parks began training as a Bausch & Lomb Science Scholar, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology at University of Rochester, NY, followed by a post-baccalaureate year at University of Minnesota. Returning to Atlanta to attend Atlanta University, he graduated with a Master of Science degree in Biology (Physiology) while working at Grady Memorial Hospital as Nurse’s Assistant with the first Burn Unit team. After being accepted to and earning his Medical degree from Medical College of Georgia, he completed a Pediatric Residency with honors at University of Florida; a Fellowship in Pediatric Cardiology at Emory University; and then joined the Emory University Pediatric Faculty as an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Pediatric Cardiologist, practicing as the first Pediatric Cardiac Intensivist and Interim Director of the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Egleston Children’s Hospital.
Dr. Parks is recognized as a pioneer in researching, developing, and modifying MRI and CT technologies for adaptation and use in children with heart disease, which led to the establishment of the Pediatric Cardiac MRI and CT programs at Egleston Children's Hospital and Emory University. As a Fellow with The American Board of Pediatrics (FABP), The American Academy Pediatrics (FAAP), The American College of Cardiology (FACC), The North American Society of Cardiovascular Imaging (FNASCI) and The American Heart Association (FAHA), he served on many national, international, regional, state, and institutional committees, conferences, community outreach programs.
His 40+ year career as a clinician, intensivist, scientist, instructor, ethicist, mentor, author, and researcher with Emory University School of Medicine, his collaboration with The Georgia Institute of Technology Bio-Medical Engineering Department, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and other national and international pediatric cardiology programs contributed to significant innovations in imaging and surgical modifications for the treatment of heart disease in children. As an Associate Professor of Pediatrics and later a full dual promotion to Professor of Pediatrics and Professor of Radiology at Emory University, he was honored with Emeritus Status at The Emory University Emeritus College at retirement.
Dr. Parks resides in Greensboro, Ga., enjoying golf and volunteering in the community with his wife Leanne, and spending time with family and grandchildren.