PennWest News

January 13, 2025

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LEON FORD TALK MARKS NATIONAL DAY OF RACIAL HEALING AT
PENNWEST

January 13, 2025
Pennsylvania Western University will mark the National Day of Racial
Healing with a visit by Pittsburgh native and changemaker Leon Ford.
Ford will speak from 11 a.m. to noon Jan. 21 in PennWest California’s
Convocation Center South Wing. The Clarion and Edinboro campuses
are invited to join watch parties in Gemmell 250/252 (Clarion) or
Pogue Student Center 143 (Edinboro). The talk will also be
livestreamed on PennWest’s YouTube channel.

Ford, a social entrepreneur and advocate for social justice and mental
health, turned personal tragedy into purpose after surviving a 2012
police shooting that left him paralyzed. He collaborates with law
enforcement, legislators and community leaders to promote equity
and healing, including co-founding The Hear Foundation to foster
safer, stronger communities in Pittsburgh.
Ford’s award-winning memoir, “An Unspeakable Hope,” reflects his
commitment to turning pain into purpose. He has been honored with
accolades including the Muhammed Ali Humanitarian Award and
Forbes 30 Under 30.
Ford’s visit is sponsored by the PennWest Office of Diversity, Equity
and Inclusion.