
Justin Leonard
ABOUT ME

I am a mission-driven communications professional with a "do more with less" mentality. My diverse background in education research, large-scale assessment, public policy and administration, and agriculture helps me connect with a range of audiences and tackle complex topics with clarity. I thrive on big-picture connections, anticipating challenges, and crafting impactful messaging.
Growing up on a small farm in Eudora, Kansas, I thought I was destined for a career in agriculture. After earning my undergraduate degree in communications from Oklahoma State University, I pursued a master's degree in public policy and administration from Northwestern University (NU). During that time, I honed my strategic communications skills and learned about the art and science of public policy and administration.
I joined Accessible Teaching, Learning, and Assessment Systems (ATLAS) at the University of Kansas in 2019 as a project specialist. Since then, I have worked in various roles and on a variety of projects and programs aimed at improving the learning landscape for all students.
In addition to my professional work, I have volunteered as an adviser for 4-H groups and served as the president of the Senior Foundation of Eudora. Currently, I serve as a communications specialist for the NU MPPA Alumni Community Board, where I help to connect our alumni and promote their achievements.
When I'm not working or volunteering, I enjoy photography, lifting weights, hiking, and baking.
Writing Samples
In finding an impossible harmony between music and data science, Jake Thompson created an innovative tool to reduce barriers for education researchers.
Hyunjoo Kim is working to make it possible to pinpoint the moment a student's understanding takes a wrong turn by creating a detailed map of student understanding.
The measr project aims to bridge the gap between statistical models used in assessment and their applications in the classroom to support teachers and improve student learning outcomes.

























