Shot of Genius Conversation Series: with Special Guest Jerjuan Howard

About Shot of Genius

A Shot of Genius is a curated live conversation and short-format lecture series that challenges us to reimagine what “genius” means — both in others and in ourselves.

Each gathering spotlights a featured “genius,” offering a deeper look into how they think, create, and make meaning. The experience begins with a moderated conversation exploring the who and why behind their perspective, followed by a TED-style talk that unpacks the how of their brilliance in action.

Set within a relaxed, non-academic environment, the series invites shared curiosity, real dialogue, and meaningful connection. And in true Shot of Genius fashion, guests are invited to take a celebratory shot, as an intentional nod to both the social atmosphere and the small, potent dose of insight each gathering offers.

About our Guest Genius: Jerjuan Howard

Jerjuan Howard serves as the Director of Youth Affairs for the City of Detroit. Drawing from his experience founding youth-centered initiatives, working within city government, and leading neighborhood-based development projects, he brings a systems-oriented and partnership-driven approach to advancing equitable opportunities for Detroit’s young people.

Prior to his appointment, Jerjuan founded and now serves as Board Chair of Umoja Debate League and Umoja Village. Established in 2021, Umoja Debate League partners with more than 25 schools and provides programming to over 500 Detroit students annually. Through competitive debate, students develop transferable skills including critical thinking, public speaking, research, confidence, and conflict resolution. The program is intentionally designed to create leadership pipelines that prepare Detroit youth for careers in law, public service, entrepreneurship, and civic leadership. Umoja Village, developed on formerly blighted land in his childhood neighborhood, has been transformed into a vibrant community space featuring gardens, art installations, and a performance stage, serving as a model for place based revitalization and youth centered placemaking.

Jerjuan is also the owner of the forthcoming Howard Family Bookstore, located on Puritan Avenue in the neighborhood where he was raised. The project converts a long vacant commercial building into a literacy centered community anchor focused on increasing reading engagement, fostering creativity, and providing a safe and welcoming gathering space for residents.

Throughout his career, Jerjuan has built strategic partnerships with businesses, school systems, parents, colleges and universities, and other key stakeholders to expand access and opportunity for Detroit youth. His work reflects a strong belief that the complex challenges facing young people require a collaborative, systems level approach that leverages public, private, and nonprofit partnerships in alignment.

Jerjuan previously served in the United States Army National Guard as an Information Technology Specialist and earned the Army Achievement Medal for his service. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Western Michigan University, where he served as President of the Black Student Union. Professionally, he has worked as an Academic Interventionist with Detroit Public Schools Community District and as Special Projects and Partnerships Coordinator for Detroit City Council, where he oversaw major initiatives including the Taskforce on Black Male Engagement and a citywide gun violence reduction strategy.

Through his public service and community leadership, Jerjuan Howard continues to advance a coordinated vision for youth empowerment, educational access, and neighborhood transformation across the City of Detroit.

Event Agenda

5:00 pm | Doors Open: Networking + Music

5:30 pm | Introduction + Event Overview

5:40 pm | Conversation with Guest Genius, Jerjuan Howard

6:10 pm | Group 'Shot' Break 🥃 📸

6:20 pm | TED-Talk Style Lecture: Genius in Action

6:35 pm | Curious Questions + Conversation (Q & A)

7:00 pm | Event Wrap-Up

For more info, partnership opportunities, and to recommend future Guest Geniuses: [email protected].

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