STU English Department Welcomed Alumnus Michael Leach, Author of Faith Over Fear, for Campus Visit
By Professor Zoraida Pastor
On February 12, the English Department at St. Thomas University welcomed distinguished alumnus Michael Leach, former Chief Diversity Officer for the Biden Administration, and author of Faith Over Fear: Harnessing Resilience in the Face of Uncertainty, for a day of conversations with students.
From 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Leach met with students during a scheduled class session. He focused on a central theme from his book: Patterns vs. Potential. He encouraged students to recognize habits that limit growth and to choose behaviors aligned with their long-term goals.
At 12:30 p.m., Leach joined Kelly Wolfe, Associate Professor at STU and Pushcart Prize nominee for fiction, for a fireside chat and Q&A about his book and his journey to the White House. His family joined him for the conversation, adding a personal dimension to the event.
Leach shared that he began his professional career working with the NFL. He spoke candidly about setbacks and growth as he advanced. His work there focused on staffing and organizational development—experience that later aligned closely with his White House role, where he worked on staffing strategy and leadership diversity.
Throughout the sessions, he repeated one of his guiding principles: “Everybody communicates. Not everyone connects.” Students asked questions about internships, networking, and leadership preparation. Leach urged them to build meaningful relationships and to pursue opportunities with intention.
Reflecting on his path, Leach said he initially came to Miami for the weather. That idea of stepping into a new environment became a guiding principle when he later chose a master’s program. He selected STU as the first stop of his international book tour because it was home. He spoke warmly of his time as a student and of former professors and mentors who shaped his journey, including Dr. Janice Bell, who was instrumental in supporting and guiding him.
Leach also met with the Eye of the Bobcat team, STU’s arts and culture magazine. The student staff served as “cultural ambassadors “designated by Provost Michelle Johnson-Barnes. Together, they discussed writing, storytelling, and following creative goals. Leach encouraged them to remain disciplined and courageous in pursuing their dreams.
His visit highlighted resilience, leadership, and the lasting impact of mentorship and an STU education.
To view photos from the event, please Click Here.