Cornell William Brooks is a fourth-generation ordained minister, civil rights attorney, social justice activist, coalition builder, and writer.  Most recently, he served as the 18^th President and CEO of the NAACP.  Rev. Brooks led the organization in securing 11 legal victories against voter suppression in 12 months; a dramatic increase in the level, visibility and breadth of grassroots activism; high profile opposition to civil rights violations through testimony before the U.S. Senate, engaging/confronting the White House, and using mass civil disobedience; rapid expansion in the number, diversity, and youth of new membership; developing new programs, including a pioneering social impact investing initiative; as well as raising $80 million in new support. 

 

President and CEO (18^th), NAACP (2014-2017); President and CEO, New Jersey Institute for Social Justice (2007-2014); Senior Counsel and Special Counsel, Federal Communications Commission (1999-2007); Democratic Nominee for U.S. Congress, 10^th District of Virginia (1997-1998); Trial Attorney, Department of Justice (1994-1997); Executive Director, Fair Housing Council of Greater Washington (1992-1994); and Trial Attorney, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights (1991-1992).  He is currently a regular Contributor for CNN; Visiting Professor of Ethics, Law, and Justice Movements, Boston University; and a Senior Fellow, Brennan Center for Justice.  

Fellowship Dates: September-November, 2017