Owen Knox Ed.D. ’71

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For over three decades, Own Knox has been a driving force in elementary school education, spearheading numerous projects and playing an instrumental role in the Los Angeles Unified School District.

In addition to his many professional commitments, Knox has always found time to work with local community projects including Dollars for Scholars, the Watts-Willowbrook Boys and Girls Club and the NAACP Job Preparation Center. He has also serves as executive board vice president of Performing Tree Arts Association, an organization dedicated to bringing the performing arts into public schools.

A founding member of the Watts Learning Center Foundation, Knox applied his expertise to developing a family-centered elementary school program for children of poverty. As a result of his efforts and dedication, the Watts Learning Center Public Charter Elementary School opened in 1997 and has grown to serve 180 kindergarten, first and second-grades.

Knox has left his mark on a variety of areas in the American education system. One of his greatest achievements is co-founding of the Council of Black Administrators in 1968 amidst the social and political turmoil of that time. The council is still a thriving organization today – in fact, the largest and most influential of its kind.

His long list of honors and achievements reflect a generous spirit, along with a passion for helping others and bringing out their best. From students to colleagues, each person with whom he has worked has been inspired by this exceptional educator and effective leader.