News
Making the Baseball and Jazz Connection
Among the many positive developments for the Buck Leonard Association over the years, one of the most exciting is the emerging relationship between the family of baseball Hall of Famer Buck Leonard and that of another of Rocky Mount’s legendary sons, jazz icon Thelonious Monk.
Both Leonard (born in 1907) and Monk (born in 1917) have deep roots in Rocky Mount, NC, and share a legacy of excellence and a mission to prepare underserved youth for future success. This shared vision has brought together the Monk Youth Jazz and STEAM Collective (MYJ) of New Haven, CT, and the Buck Leonard Association for Sports & Human Enrichment (BL-ASHE). While the potential for collaboration had always been present, it was the challenges of the 2020 pandemic that catalyzed their partnership.
During the pandemic, both organizations recognized the growing needs of the at-risk youth they served. This led to the creation of the “STEAM and Humanities Saturday Academy,” a collective initiative aimed at providing educational opportunities. Young students from New Haven, CT, and Rocky Mount, NC, participated in the virtual “Pipeline to Professions” program. This program featured curriculum modules in STEAM-related fields such as Medicine, Engineering, Architecture, Law, Music, Art, Dance, and Black History. The modules were developed and taught by a diverse group of professionals, including Dr. Lisa Nelson and Dr. Kim Koo of Rocky Mount, NC.
Fast forward five years, and the collaboration continues to thrive. In a heartwarming event, the Monk Blood Heritage Connection – “Roots to Routes” brought 50 family members to revisit their North Carolina roots. The tour included a visit to the Buck Leonard Home Museum, hosted by the Buck Leonard Family, BL-ASHE board members, and friends. This meaningful reunion celebrated the shared heritage and enduring impact of these two remarkable families.
For more details, you can read the full article featured in the Rocky Mount Telegram by following the link below.
