Oakridge Neighborhood is pleased to introduce Leonard “Lenny” Bell as Vice President – Youth and Education Programs.

Lenny brings more than two decades of leadership in education, youth development, and community engagement. He is a writer, educator, and community strategist known for designing youth centered programs that integrate academic achievement, creative expression, and personal development. His leadership approach is relationship driven and systems aware, grounded in the belief that young people thrive when they are supported holistically.

Prior to joining Oakridge Neighborhood, Lenny held leadership, teaching, and consulting roles across K-12, higher ed, and nonprofit organizations throughout Iowa. He has worked extensively with first generation students, young men of color, and emerging leaders, developing pathways that connect education to purpose, voice, and long- term opportunities. His work emphasizes mentorship, culturally responsive practice, and sustainable systems that strengthen both youth outcomes and organizational capacity.

Bell will oversee a staff of 20, serving close to 400 students in Central Iowa taking part in services such as afterschool programming, summer learning, Oak Futures Employment, and more.

He succeeds Vernon Johnson, who retired from his position in 2025.