James Cox Chambers: A Legacy of Media, Activism, and Philanthropy

James Cox Chambers, born in 1957 in Atlanta, Georgia, is an American billionaire heir, renewable energy entrepreneur, biodynamic farmer, and filmmaker. As the son of Anne Cox Chambers, former U.S. Ambassador to Belgium, and the grandson of James M. Cox, a newspaper publisher and three-time Governor of Ohio, Chambers inherited a legacy deeply rooted in media and public service.

Chambers grew up in Atlanta during a transformative era marked by the Civil Rights Movement. Immersed in a milieu of social change, he was influenced by figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Congressman John Lewis. In 1982, he graduated from Bard College in New York, an institution known for its progressive values, which likely shaped his future endeavors.

Diverging from the traditional corporate path, Chambers pursued interests in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. As a biodynamic farmer, he emphasizes holistic and ecological farming practices. His commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in his entrepreneurial ventures within the renewable energy sector. Additionally, Chambers has explored the arts, appearing in the 1984 film “Alphabet City.”

Chambers serves as the Chair of the Board of Trustees at Bard College, reflecting his dedication to education. He is also a board member of Communities In Schools, an organization focused on empowering students to stay in school and achieve in life. His philanthropic efforts extend to various social, environmental, and educational causes, underscoring a commitment to societal betterment.

In 1982, Chambers married actress Lauren Hamilton, daughter of NASA scientist Margaret Hamilton. They have a son, James Cox Chambers Jr., also known as Fergie Chambers, who has gained attention for his political activism. The couple later divorced. In 2004, Chambers married Nabila Khashoggi, daughter of billionaire Adnan Khashoggi. They have a son and reside in Palisades, New York.

In 2015, Anne Cox Chambers distributed her 49% share in Cox Enterprises equally among her three children, granting James approximately a 16.3% stake in the company. As of May 2022, his net worth was estimated at $4.7 billion. Despite his substantial wealth, Chambers remains actively engaged in pursuits that align with his values of sustainability, education, and social justice.