Last week, Harlem Academy’s Visiting Author Series welcomed Tony and Grammy Award-winning performer and bestselling author Leslie Odom Jr., who will soon reprise his role as Aaron Burr in “Hamilton.”
Mr. Odom spoke with students about his life, the importance of education, and his two books: “I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know,” a touching ode to the bond between parents and children, and “Failing Up: How to Take Risks, Aim Higher, and Never Stop Learning,” a memoir charting his journey to success and insights on overcoming challenges, embracing failure, and pursuing dreams.
Harlem Academy continuously seeks innovative ways to inspire students to live its School Creed, including connecting them with leaders like Mr. Odom. “Leslie represents something we talk about often at Harlem Academy – Black excellence,” says Assistant Head of School Khaliah Adams-Joseph. “That means showing the world the strength, brilliance, creativity, and leadership that live in our community and in each one of our students. It means giving your best, learning from your mistakes, and always trying to grow, and Leslie reminds us that greatness comes when you never stop believing in what’s possible. We are thrilled that our students were able to spend time with him.”
During his conversation with students, Mr. Odom extolled the value of learning. “To this day, I believe in the power of education,” he told students. “It’s the passport to your dreams.” He also expressed his deep love of books and their ability to make complex ideas and feelings accessible, pointing to authors such as Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, and W.E.B. Du Bois. “Books are a way for us to spend time with these great minds,” he said.
Mr. Odom also explained that the title and overarching message of his memoir, “Failing Up,” represent the importance of taking big swings in life, putting in every effort, and having the courage to fail. “You always come out ahead when you’re studying, when you’re preparing for something, when you’re trying as hard as you can. When you really give it your best effort, you can’t lose. You either win or you learn.”
To commemorate the visit, each student received an autographed copy of one of Mr. Odom’s books.