Quick Facts
Biography
Jorja Leap, an experienced anthropologist and adjunct professor in the social welfare department at UCLA, She is also Director of Health and Social Justice Partnership and is a nationally recognized gang expert, currently conducting a five-year research study evaluating the impact of Homeboy Industries, a gang-intervention and re-entry program in Los Angeles, CA. In 2011, Leap was named one of Los Angeles Magazine's Action Heroes for her policy work and gang intervention efforts in the Los Angeles area.
Education & Academic Positions
Education Leap completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees from UCLA. In 1978 she received a B.A. in Sociology. In 1980 a Master's Degree in Social Work, and in 1988 a Ph.D. in Psychological Anthropology. Academic Positions
- 1980-1990 Lecturer
California State University, Fullerton Human Services Program
- 1990-1992 Lecturer
USC School of Social Work University of Southern California
- 1992-1999 Lecturer
UCLA School of Public Policy and Social Research UCLA School of Social Welfare
- 1999-2007 Adjunct Assistant Professor
UCLA School of Public Policy and Social Research Department of Social Welfare
- 2007-2013 Adjunct Associate Professor
UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs Department of Social Welfare
- 2013-2014 Adjunct Professor
UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs
Department of Social Welfare
Writer
In March 2012, Leap published her first book, Jumped In: What Gangs Taught Me About Violence, Drugs, Love, and Redemption.
On June 9, 2015, Leap will release "Project Fatherhood: A Story of Courage and Healing in One of America's Toughest Communities".
Awards & Honors
Dr. Leap has received several awards for her social work throughout Los Angeles and beyond.
- "Game Changers": 50 Most Influential Women in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Magazine October 2012
- 2012 Joseph Nunn Alumna of the Year
UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs Department of Social Welfare
- Los Angeles "Action Hero"
Los Angeles Magazine October 2011
- 2010 Community Program of the Year Nominee
Homeboy Industries Community Research Project Evaluation and 5-year Longitudinal Research
- 2000 Stinson Lecturer
USC School of Social Work Distinguished Lecture Series
- 1990 Faculty Appreciation Award
California State University, Fullerton Human Services Program