Barry White Jr.

Barry White Jr served as a fifth-grade reading teacher in Charlotte, NC, focusing on instilling a love for reading in his students. Currently, Mr. White serves as a Vice Principal in the Charlotte Mecklenburg School District. In 2016, Mr. White discovered that a practice he'd implemented as a sign of trust between him and his students had gone viral. Earning the title "Steve Harvey's Hero," Mr. White's increasing popularity stemmed from his relationship-building skills, which depicted him giving personalized handshakes to each of his students, attracting attention worldwide. His purpose is to stress the importance of individuality and the positive impact that providing individualized attention to each student can have prompting a love for learning inside/outside the classroom. With his motto, "Before a child can invest in the content, they must know you are invested in them," he has been instrumental in encouraging the youth to use their platforms to motivate and inspire others. Additionally, Mr. White was featured in the Charlotte Observer for starting an extracurricular athletic program at his elementary school centered around raising collegiate students' interest with the help of fraternity and sorority members.

Mr. White received the 2017 AABHE Pacesetter award, The CMS 2017 Teaching Excellence Award, The 2018 NC AT&T Heritage Calendar Honoree at the Governor's Mansion, The 2019 Black Fathers Rock Surrogate Father of The Year, and The CMPD & Community MVP award for his outstanding work in the community as well as The City of Charlotte.

Practical Passion:

Having presented at many different school districts and conferences, Barry allows his passion and energy behind his purpose and expertise to drive his message. He provides valuable and insightful strategies, resources, and information that is purposed to benefit and cultivate the minds of his audience, regardless of their expertise or background.