Leonard Pitts, Jr.

Leonard Pitts Jr. began his career as a writer for Casey Kasem's radio program "American Top 40" and later became a pop music critic at the Miami Herald. His transition to discussing race and current affairs was marked by his popular column that now explores a range of topics including pop culture, social justice, and family life. This column is syndicated in more than 150 daily newspapers. Pitts was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in 1992 and won the Pulitzer Prize for commentary in 2004, reflecting his significant impact in journalism.

He is the author of several books including "Becoming Dad: Black Men and the Journey to Fatherhood," which provides an in-depth look at the nuances of black fatherhood in America, and "The Last Thing You Surrender," a novel that explores themes of race and human resilience. Pitts’ work has also been recognized with numerous industry accolades such as the National Association of Black Journalists’ Award of Excellence, the American Society of Newspaper Editors Award for Commentary Writing, and the GLAAD Media Outstanding Newspaper Columnist award.

Pitts is an active speaker, frequently engaging with audiences at colleges, civic groups, and professional associations on topics such as race in America and the craft of writing. He has shared his expertise as a visiting instructor at prestigious institutions like Princeton University and the University of Maryland. Notable speaking engagements include a keynote address at The Citadel and memorable appearances at Central Pennsylvania's Community College and Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he attracted a standing-room only crowd and received two standing ovations. His widely circulated and acclaimed column on the September 11, 2001 attacks, "We'll Go Forward From This Moment," exemplifies his ability to address pressing national issues with depth and sensitivity.