Leonard Parker provides leadership in Metropolitan Chicago and the North Suburbs in Youth Development for Cook County.

Parker graduated from Wilberforce University (OH) with a bachelor's degree in Finance and obtained a master's degree from Concordia University (IL) in Education with a program emphasis in Urban Instruction. While working on his master's degree, Leonard worked part-time in Chicago Public Schools in preparation to become a classroom teacher.

He joined Extension in July 2004, and is currently a Metro/4-H Youth Development Educator, where he brings 20 years of experience in youth education and leadership. His previous experience includes working as a Research Specialist/Health Educator for the University of Illinois at Chicago. In this position, he helped develop and facilitate curriculum for the "Building Your Life" youth education program.

Parker's professional affiliations include NABSE- National Association of Black School Educators, and IEPYE- Illinois Extension Professionals for Youth Education.

Leonard is committed to enhancing the lives of young people throughout Cook County.