Great Cities Institute at the University of Illinois at Chicago


A conversation with Rev. Dr. Leon Finney

2009 Great Cities Fellow James Compton is pleased to present this conversation with Rev. Dr. Leon Finney as part of the Vernon Jarrett Lecture Series on the state of the African American Male.

Leon Finney
The Reverend Dr. Leon D. Finney, Jr. has devoted his professional life to the revitalization of urban communities. Finney is most identified with The Woodlawn Organization and Woodlawn Community Development Corporation, a community development initiative, where his leadership has inspired many other communities across the country.

Dr. Finney earned an M.A. in economics and urban community development from Goddard College; an M.A. in theological studies and a doctor of theology degree from McCormick Theological Seminary; and completed a doctorate in public administration studies at Nova University.
Dr. Finney founded the Christ Apostolic Church, now Metropolitan Apostolic Community Church, and serves as its Pastor. He has been a faculty member at various universities and served on numerous boards and commissions in the Chicago area. Dr. Finney has received awards and honors for his professional and civic work.

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Part 1: In the first part of his conversation with James Compton, Rev. Dr. Leon Finney discusses the historical significance of slavery, discrimination, and segregation on today's African American male.

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Part 2: Dr. Finney discusses his role as chair of the Chicago State University Board of Trustees, the state of education for African Americans, and his vision for CSU.

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Part 3: Dr. Finney shares his thoughts on what Obama's election means for the African American community and African American Males.