معرفی
Leonard Pitts, Jr. serves as Director of the Center for Urban Journalism at Morgan State University's School of Global Journalism & Communication. A Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and accomplished author, Pitts brings extensive professional experience to his academic role at this historically black university in Baltimore.
Pitts is a retired columnist for The Miami Herald whose twice-weekly column was syndicated nationally to more than 200 newspapers. His expertise spans journalism, commentary, urban journalism, and African American studies, with a particular focus on social justice issues and cultural commentary that bridges divides in American society.
Throughout his distinguished career, Pitts has received numerous accolades including the 2004 Pulitzer Prize in Commentary for 'fresh, vibrant columns that spoke, with both passion and compassion, to ordinary people on often divisive issues.' His work has also been honored by the American Association of Sunday and Feature Editors, The Society of Professional Journalists, the National Association of Black Journalists, and many other organizations.
As an educator, Pitts has taught at Ohio University, Hampton University, American University, George Washington University, the University of Maryland, Virginia Commonwealth University and Princeton University, bringing real-world journalism experience to the classroom.
Professional Recognition:
- Pulitzer Prize in Commentary (2004)
- American Association of Sunday and Feature Editors award
- Society of Professional Journalists award
- National Association of Black Journalists award
- Simon Wiesenthal Center award
- Florida Society of Newspaper Editors award
- GLAAD Media award
- Press Club of Atlantic City award
- National Society of Newspaper Columnists award
- Four honorary doctorates from various institutions
Pitts is also an accomplished literary author, having written four celebrated novels that explore African American history and experience: Before I Forget, Freeman, Grant Park and The Last Thing You Surrender. Born and raised in Southern California, he resides in Bowie, Maryland with his family while continuing his work directing the Center for Urban Journalism at Morgan State University.
