Leonor L. Walcott, Elmcor’s Vice President of Behavioral Health, brings over two decades of experience working with underserved and vulnerable youth, families, and communities. Prior to joining Elmcor, she served as Vice President for Residential Services at a nonprofit organization, where she was responsible for the clinical, operational, and fiscal oversight of a psychiatric treatment facility for youth with severe emotional disturbances requiring subacute inpatient care.
A former adjunct professor of social work, Leonor has led diverse programming reflective of her academic journey throughout the New York City region. Her career portfolio includes initiatives such as Cure Violence, which addresses the scourge of gun violence through a public-health approach, and services for adults with serious and persistent mental illness in supportive housing. She has also managed and launched residential and crisis programs for Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY), as well as for young adults living with HIV/AIDS—many of whom presented with complex, untreated trauma.
By embracing a methodology through a trauma-informed lens, guided by restorative practices, cultural competence, and clinical intervention strategies, Leonor has consistently empowered staff to create physically, emotionally, and psychologically affirming safe spaces—environments where individuals are not just supported, but able to thrive.
Leonor earned her Master of Social Work from Lehman College and holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Sociology and Africana & African American Studies from The Pennsylvania State University.
Outside of her professional life, Leonor is an avid reader and lifelong learner who enjoys spending time with family and friends. She is excited to continue her journey as a change agent at Elmcor.
Leonor is motivated by the quote:
“My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.” – Archbishop Desmond Tutu
