“Look for what is the right thing to do.”
Dr. Rosarius (Roy) Leonardi is a lifelong educator whose passion for teaching and supporting individuals with disabilities has shaped a meaningful and impactful career spanning over two decades. From his earliest years working directly with children who faced complex learning challenges to training future educators at the university level, Dr. Leonardi has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and academic excellence. His guiding principle—“look for what is the right thing to do”—is not simply a motto but a personal philosophy that informs his decisions, leadership style, and unwavering advocacy for marginalized learners.
Dr. Leonardi’s journey began in special education classrooms, where he quickly distinguished himself as a compassionate and highly skilled professional capable of reaching even the most challenging students. His foundational expertise in autism spectrum disorders and emotional-behavioral disabilities laid the groundwork for his long-standing influence in special education. He brought not only evidence-based instructional strategies but also empathy, patience, and innovative behavior support techniques that made learning accessible to students often left behind in traditional settings.
Throughout his career, Dr. Leonardi has served in a wide range of educational roles, from classroom teacher to program developer, curriculum designer, and principal. His leadership was especially impactful at the Rushford Center, where he guided both students and staff with integrity and vision. Colleagues have consistently recognized him for his mastery of special education law, including the intricacies of IEP development, compliance under the P.J. Consent Decree, and the practical application of educational policy to real-world teaching. He is widely respected for creating school environments where both students and teachers are held to high expectations and are supported to meet them.
Dr. Leonardi’s influence extends into higher education, where he has taught graduate-level coursework at Central Connecticut State University. As an assistant professor, he provided future educators with critical knowledge in areas such as applied behavior analysis, curriculum design, and autism studies. Students regularly praised his engaging teaching style, often commenting on how his real-world experience enriched their understanding and prepared them for the challenges of working in inclusive classrooms. His courses were known not only for their academic rigor but also for the deep sense of purpose they instilled in his students.
One of the most formative and globally-minded experiences in Dr. Leonardi’s career came during his time volunteering in La Ceiba, Honduras. Through Volunteering Solutions, he supported staff and students at Escuela Emilio Curie, a center for children with disabilities. Immersed in a vastly different cultural and institutional context, he worked side-by-side with local educators to bring best practices in special education to underserved communities. This international experience solidified his belief in the universal right to quality education and further deepened his perspective on the global challenges facing special needs learners.
Dr. Leonardi’s dedication to professional growth is evident in his ongoing commitment to learning. He has earned certifications in special education and completed graduate study in psychology at University of Vermont. Even after experiencing a life-altering stroke in 2008, which affected his ability to speak Spanish and Italian, Dr. Leonardi remained resilient and engaged in his work, continuing to teach, mentor, and serve with the same vigor and care as before. His recovery and continued professional activity stand as a testament to his strength, perseverance, and calling to serve.
His work is grounded in strong ethical values and a collaborative spirit. Whether guiding a team of educators, advising students in their graduate research, or consulting with school administrators, Dr. Leonardi brings a balanced mix of humility, decisiveness, and strategic thinking. He thrives in environments where diverse perspectives are welcomed and collective problem-solving is prioritized. His leadership fosters trust, encourages innovation, and empowers those around him to pursue their best work.
Across all roles and settings, Dr. Leonardi has been deeply invested in the development of inclusive curricula and evidence-based interventions. His expertise in positive behavior support and applied behavior analysis has directly influenced program development in both K–12 and higher education institutions. He is especially passionate about designing interventions that reduce barriers for students with severe disabilities and increase meaningful engagement in both academic and life skills learning.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Leonardi is widely admired for his integrity, thoughtfulness, and authenticity. Former colleagues and students describe him as a mentor, a listener, and a tireless advocate. His work reflects not only intellectual depth but also a moral compass that consistently points toward justice, inclusion, and compassion. These qualities have made him a sought-after advisor, a respected educator, and an invaluable contributor to the field of special education.
Now entering a new phase of his career, Dr. Leonardi is actively seeking opportunities to contribute at the board level. He believes his experience—across multiple educational tiers, cultures, and leadership contexts—equips him to offer strategic insights, informed governance, and empathetic leadership. Whether serving on a nonprofit education board, advising a special needs advocacy organization, or contributing to a policy think tank, he brings with him a wealth of knowledge and a deep, personal commitment to improving lives through education.
Character:
Dr. Leonardi exemplifies character through his unwavering dedication to doing what is right, even when it is difficult. His moral compass guides every professional decision he makes, always prioritizing the well-being of his students and colleagues. He treats every individual with dignity and respect, fostering trust and community wherever he works.
Knowledge:
With over 20 years of specialized experience in education, Dr. Leonardi brings deep expertise in autism, curriculum design, behavior analysis, and policy compliance. He continually updates his knowledge through formal study and fieldwork, ensuring his strategies are current and impactful. His insights consistently elevate both classroom instruction and institutional performance.
Strategic:
Dr. Leonardi is a systems thinker who understands how to implement educational policies and interventions at scale. He has successfully led teams, built inclusive programs, and influenced both institutional and governmental educational mandates. His ability to balance detail-oriented planning with long-term vision makes him a valuable strategist in complex educational environments.
Communication:
A gifted communicator, Dr. Leonardi combines academic clarity with real-world practicality. Whether leading a graduate seminar, presenting to a board, or mentoring a new teacher, he ensures that ideas are shared clearly, respectfully, and purposefully. His interpersonal skills create collaborative spaces where diverse voices are heard and empowered.
