James DeKoven was a 19th-century American priest and educator who emerged as a prominent figure for the Ritualist movement within the Episcopal Church. Born in Middletown, Connecticut, in 1831, he dedicated much of his career to academic leadership and parish ministry in Wisconsin. Despite being nominated or elected to several bishoprics, his theological views regarding the Eucharist prevented him from ascending to the episcopate. He remained a steadfast advocate for high-church traditions throughout his life.