Rev. Leonard Burton

Plenary Speaker: “Economic Mobility”

Leonard Burton

President and CEO of the Center for the Study of Social Policy (CSSP), Leonard Burton, brings over three decades of leadership in anti-racist, intersectional social justice work. With a diverse background spanning public social service systems, philanthropy, community change, faith-based programs, and youth development, he champions healthy development and well-being for young people involved in public systems. An original co-developer of the upEND Movement, he advocates for abolishing family policing and creating better care for children and families. Leonard serves on the board of WestED and advises the National Child Traumatic Stress Network at Northwestern University. A Detroit native and combat veteran, he resides in Huntsville with his spouse Cheryl, their two adult children, and teenage grandson. Leonard is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.