In this deeply personal and expansive conversation, Dr. Sohn A. Butts sits with educator, leader, and bridge-builder Mr. Hakeem Croom to explore a journey shaped by culture, disruption, resilience, and purpose. Growing up in Harlem during the height of the crack era, Mr. Croom’s childhood combined instability with profound cultural grounding—foster care, family reintegration, poverty, and a home rich in Black history, literature, and political consciousness. Early influences from his family, community elders, and educators instilled a love of learning, leadership, and self-determination.

A pivotal turning point comes when Mr. Croom leaves New York for a military boarding school in Virginia, an experience that brings cultural dissonance, discipline, global exposure, and ultimately, a sense of belonging. Small affirmations, like a teacher tel ...