The Haywood Burns Institute announces the retirement of our Founder and President, James Bell. James founded the Haywood Burns Institute in 2001. Named for the late Haywood Burns, a civil rights attorney, professor, husband, friend, and brother, the organization has become a leading voice in the field of youth justice and systems transformation. James will spend 2021 releasing a book and celebrating a lifetime of amazing achievements. James’s spirit, energy and intellect has positioned the BI team to carry his legacy forward and continue the race toward racial justice.