PRINCIPAL OF THE JOURNALISM & MEDIA ACADEMY, HARTFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS
CAREER TIP
"Make sure you follow your passion. You should look for a career that you would do every day for free if you could. You have to love what you do. Have a real reason 'why' you are working. You should also connect your work with the improvement of your local, national, and international community. Finally, you have to know who you are. Sharpen your values and beliefs, and rely on them to make decisions and for support when faced with adversity.
I recommend that new graduates build and maintain relationships with people in their industries. Treat people with respect because you never know when you may need them in the future."
MORE ABOUT LEONARD
Leonard received his bachelor's in secondary education from the University's College of Education, Nursing and Health Professions in 1990, followed later by master's degrees in secondary education in 1999 and in educational leadership in 2008, both from Central Connecticut State University. He has had a long career in education, which started upon graduation from UHart teaching at Weaver High School. He taught for 18 years before becoming
an administrator and served as a dean of students, principal-in-residence, and for the last five years, principal. His leadership vision for his school is based on the core values of discipline, respect, unity, and maturity to develop a path of communication and social action on a more global level.
In addition to his work, Leonard is a life-time member of the Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated; is the founder of Young Men's Leadership Programs; and has participated in Harvard University's National Institute for Urban School Leaders and in the Education Policy Fellowship Program. He was also a Fulbright-Hays Scholar in Ghana in West Africa. Leonard has been recognized for his many contributions to the community and was named an outstanding role model and leader by local groups such as the Artist Collective and Committed Adult to Children in Hartford. In 2016, the University of Hartford's Alumni Association honored him with the Distinguished Alumni Award for his exceptional impact on his profession and the community.
Leonard Epps drumming with students in Commons at a UHart Unity event.