Clinton Boyd, Jr. PhD

Dr. Clinton Boyd, Jr. is a visionary leader and advocate for Black families, whose work bridges research, advocacy, and community action. Since 2021, he has served as Executive Director of Fathers, Families, & Healthy Communities (FFHC) and as a Researcher at Chapin Hall. In these roles, Dr. Boyd draws on his lived and academic experiences to champion policies and programs that empower Black fathers, strengthen families, and address systemic inequities. His work reimagines justice systems and uplifts communities through transformative, equity-focused initiatives.

Dr. Boyd’s professional achievements are driven by a personal mission to speak truth to power. He has authored numerous articles, book chapters, and policy reports exploring father engagement, family resilience, and racial justice at the intersections of early childhood development and youth programming. At FFHC, he has spearheaded innovative programs to elevate the voices of Black fathers, while his work at Chapin Hall employs participatory action research to drive systemic reforms in juvenile justice and community violence prevention.

A proud first-generation college graduate, Dr. Boyd earned a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University Chicago, a Master of Arts from DePaul University, and a Ph.D. from Georgia State University. He also completed postdoctoral training at Duke University’s Samuel DuBois Cook Center on Social Equity. A Prevent Child Abuse America National Board Member and ZERO TO THREE Academy Fellow, he champions initiatives that improve outcomes for families and advance racial equity.

Dr. Boyd’s leadership and impact have earned him national recognition, including the 2024 Aspen Institute Ascend Fellowship and the 2024 Chicago Changemaker of the Year award from DePaul University. Balancing his professional accomplishments with his most cherished role as a father of two, Dr. Boyd exemplifies his belief that Black fathers are essential assets to their families and communities.