By: Emma Barnhouse, produced for The DEC Network
January 30, 2024
Meet Nikki James, CEO and Founder of Building Intellect Tutorial Services (BITS). The organization was founded in 2020 with the vision of transforming educational opportunities for the Southern Dallas community. It maintains its mission to “equip 21st-century scholars to compete in a global market while also identifying and targeting skills deficits to enhance academic success.”
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Building Intellect Tutorial Services, commonly known as B.I.T.S., emerged as a beacon of resilience in the realm of education. Faced with the unprecedented challenges posed by the global health crisis, B.I.T.S. embarked on a mission to ensure that scholars could continue their educational journeys uninterrupted. BITS has since evolved under the dedicated leadership of its founder, Ms. Nikki James, a true advocate for community improvement and a Dallas native who grew up in the Red Bird area.
Recognizing that learning should never be halted, the organization swiftly adapted to the changing landscape by establishing a robust virtual platform. Ms. Nikki and her team have a passion for education and are fueled by the desire to provide opportunities for all. Today, BITS proudly serves scholars from kindergarten through 12th grade, addressing any academic need, and has expanded its offerings to include career mentorship programs and computer literacy initiatives for senior citizens. “Education should be accessible to everyone,” says James, “regardless of age.” Ms. Nikki says that this expansion “underscores our commitment to fostering lifelong learning for individuals at every stage of life.”
Through one of Nikki’s clients, Mr. Gamble, she was referred to The DEC Network, where she has expanded her organization and continues to invest in the education of the Red Bird residents. Through The DEC Network, BITS has received $5k grants for two consecutive years from Bank 7 and has grown its operation to more than 300 educators worldwide. “The collective efforts of our team have propelled us beyond national boundaries, establishing a presence that resonates internationally. This expansion showcases our journey from a local force to a global influence, highlighting the interconnected nature of education that knows no geographical limits.
When asked what resources have impacted her success, Ms. James states that, with the support of The DEC Network, BITS has “connected with experienced mentors [and] a wealth of resources that have been instrumental in helping us scale our venture.” She elaborates, “From strategic insights to practical assistance, the community has been a cornerstone in our growth.” She says that the organization has “not only propelled our business forward but also been a source of inspiration on our entrepreneurial journey.”
Nikki James is a light to the community and an everlasting joy to those around her. She proudly shared about the wall of photos in her office–a constant reminder of the lives changed by BITS and the need for her services–and reminded others that patience and kindness are fundamental to serving others.
To learn more about Nikki James, BITS, and The DEC Network, join us at the Grand Opening of The DEC Network @ Redbird on April 10, 2024 (TBD: Time and Link). To learn more about mentorship, sponsorship, and other ways to get involved, contact info@thedec.co.
To contact the team at Building Intellect Tutorial Services (BITS):
bitstutorial.org
info@bitstutorial.org
833-611-2487(BITS)
By Emma Barnhouse 