Leah Ward

Grants and Contracts Specialist

Business Services

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Titles:

Grants and Contracts Specialist 

Academic Degrees:

Master of Arts in Kinesiology, Sport Management – University of Connecticut
Bachelor of Science, Coaching and Administration – University of Connecticut

Biography:

Leah started her career at UConn as a Program Assistant back in 2008, where she managed various grants for the Husky Sport Program, a campus-community partnership that is primarily funded by the USDA to support youth programs that promote physical activity, healthy nutrition, and academic achievement.  Later she became an Assistant Director with Husky Sport until 2016, when she expanded her post-grant support by managing all grants within the Department of Educational Leadership.  In 2022, she joined Neag’s Business and Grants Services as a Grants and Contracts Specialist where she oversees post-award functions for both the Department of Educational Leadership and the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.  As a result, Leah brings a wealth of knowledge to the post-award team in Neag.

In addition to her grant-related experience, Leah enjoys thinking creatively on ways to improve internal policies and procedures and is dedicated to developing systems of support through interactive trainings for both faculty and staff.  She strongly believes in being a life-long learner which translates well within the Neag School of Education.

Leah is a former captain and pole vaulter for the UConn Women’s Track and Field team (2002-2006), who has a strong interest in living a healthy lifestyle and encouraging others to be active, especially her three kids.