Leon Howard was raised in Albuquerque's International District and is a proud graduate of New Mexico public schools, from Wilson Middle School to Highland High. He earned both his bachelor's degree and Juris Doctor from the University of New Mexico before beginning a career dedicated to advancing civil rights and expanding access to justice.

Howard serves as the Executive Director of the ACLU of New Mexico, where he leads the organization's legal, policy, and communications work. Since returning to the ACLU in 2018, he has helped guide some of the state's most significant civil rights litigation. Among his most notable achievements was helping lead Johnson v. Albuquerque Public Schools, in which the New Mexico Supreme Court overturned a 40-year precedent and affirmed that public schools are public accommodations under the New Mexico Human Rights Act, strengthening protections against discrimination for students across the state.

Throughout his career, Howard has also been committed to developing the next generation of legal professionals. He served for seven years as co-chair of the State Bar of New Mexico's Committee on Diversity, has mentored aspiring attorneys throughout New Mexico, and has taught as part-time faculty at the University of New Mexico. His leadership has earned numerous recognitions, including being named an Albuquerque Business First "40 Under 40" honoree and a Super Lawyers "Rising Star" in civil rights.

Howard brings to the MPP Community Advisory Board a deep commitment to public service, equity, and the role of public institutions in improving the lives of New Mexicans.

Leon previously served on the Community Advisory Board from 2023-2025.