Jimmy Messer serves as Associate Head of Student Life. He joined the JA family in February of 2022. Jimmy comes to JA from The Brookstone School in Columbus, Georgia where he led the Cougars to their highest finishes (4th in 21-22 and 5th 20-21 ) in 10 years in the GADA Directors Cup (best overall Private 1A athletic program in the state). Prior to Brookstone he served as Head of School at Cottage Hill Christian Academy. Jimmy also served at St Pauls Episcopal School in Mobile for 12 years including time as basketball coach, Dean of Students and Athletic Director. He is the winningest basketball coach in St Paul's history.

Prior to entering independent school education he spent 13 years in college coaching and administration. He led Enterprise State Community College basketball to two regular season state titles and one region championship, earning coach of the year honors back to back seasons. He has also spent time as an assistant coach at the University of Mobile and Columbus State University.