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The Power of Brotherhood: Rebuilding Potential in Newark's Inner City



How One School Redefines Urban Education

In the challenging landscape of urban education, Rev. Edwin Leahy stands as a beacon of hope and transformative leadership at St. Benedict's Preparatory School.


His remarkable journey reveals an extraordinary narrative of educational innovation, spiritual commitment, and profound human development. Through a radical approach that prioritizes emotional healing, leadership development, and community building, Father Ed has created more than just a school - he has crafted a transformative ecosystem where young men of color discover their inherent dignity, potential, and purpose.


His work transcends traditional educational models, demonstrating that true education is about nurturing the heart, empowering voices, and creating a brotherhood that can overcome systemic challenges and generational barriers.


building strong black men

No Boys Left Behind (EP:959)

Three Key Highlights:

  1. Leadership Through Heart - Father Ed emphasized that truly developing young men requires addressing their emotional needs, not just their academic potential. By creating counseling programs and a supportive community, St. Benedict's Prep helps students heal from trauma and discover their potential.

  2. Building Brotherhood Across Differences - The school intentionally creates a community where students from diverse religious and racial backgrounds learn to support each other, with the motto "Whatever hurts my brother hurts me" driving their approach to mutual care and understanding.

  3. Empowering Student Leadership - St. Benedict's Prep gives students significant responsibility in running the school, allowing them to make decisions, solve problems, and develop leadership skills. This approach helps young men of color find their voice and build confidence in their abilities.


Rev. Edwin Leahy or "Father Ed" (as he prefers to be called) is the Headmaster of St. Benedict’s Preparatory School for Boys in Newark, NJ. Father Ed graduated from St. Benedict’s Prep in 1963. He has a B.A. in philosophy from Seton Hall University and a Master’s in Divinity from Woodstock College in New York. An ordained priest, Father Ed began his work at St. Benedict’s Prep in 1967, teaching biology and religion and assisting with the wrestling and football teams.

 

To contact Father Ed or to find out more about St. Benedict's Preparatory School for boys, visit their website at http://www.sbp.org.

 

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