James Buss has been with Rock Valley College since January 2014 as an Adjunct Professor within Rock Valley College’s Fitness, Wellness, and Sport Department. In addition, Buss is responsible for developing and implementing strength programs for the the sports programs at Rock Valley College. He also holds a First-Aid/CPR/AED instructor certification with the American Red Cross Association.
Coach Buss has been a Personal Trainer with the YMCA of Rock Valley in downtown Rockford, IL. He received his Personal Training Certification through ACE (American Council on Exercise) during the fall of 2014 and is currently preparing to earn his CSCS (Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist) through the NSCA (National Strength & Conditioning Association). Additionally, Coach Buss is working to complete his CPT (Certified Personal Training) through the NSCA.
In the fall of 2006, Buss attended Rock Valley College as a Fitness, Wellness and Sport (FWS) student as his desire to work within athletics, coaching, and fitness grew. Buss transferred to Western Illinois University in Macomb, IL, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Recreation with a Minor in Kinesiology. In 2012, he earned his Master’s Degree in Exercise Science. Buss also teaches within the Health, Fitness, and Education department at nearby McHenry County College in Crystal Lake, IL where he teaches Principles of Strength & Condition, as well as Introduction to Fitness Professionals, as well as First-Aid and CPR.
Buss graduated from Guilford High School in 2005 where he was a 3-year Varsity Basketball Player and a 2-year Varsity starter. Upon graduation, Buss spent 1 year as a collegiate student-athlete at NJCAA member Kishwaukee College in Malta, IL. A starter for the team, Buss set, and still holds, the single-game rebounding record (28).
FWS Courses (2014 – present)
- FWS 110: Fitness Walking
- FWS 121: Cardiovascular Conditioning
- FWS 126: Beginning Weight Lifting
- FWS 128: Sports Performance Fitness
- FWS 243: CPR, AED & First Aid
- FWS 265: Personal Fitness and Wellness
James Buss just recently married current FWS Faculty Member the former Katie Travis. She has been an instructor within the department here at Rock Valley College since 2014. They reside in the Rockford area.
