Barry Woods Jr. ’00

Barry is a transformative leader in youth development, with over 22 years of experience in youth development, program creation, engagement strategy, and relationship building. Barry has left a lasting mark on communities through his work with Stamford Public Schools, DOMUS Kids, the Stamford Boys and Girls Club, and the Allan Houston Legacy Foundation. Born and raised in New Jersey, Mr. Woods is the third child and second son in his family. Life demanded maturity early—his father left when he was just six years old, and by the age of 15, his older brother was incarcerated. During that same period, Mr. Woods was expelled from high school and teetered on the edge of a downward path. However, through faith, self-motivation, and the guidance of key mentors—including his AAU coach, Mr. Marshall, who served as a father figure—he began a journey of transformation. The greatest influence in his life came from his mother, Sandra Woods, whose unwavering mentorship helped shape his unique, relatable, and highly effective approach to working with youth. These life-changing experiences became the foundation for his book, Reasons Why Youth Don’t Give a Damn Anymore, published in February 2021. In May 2024, the passing of his mother inspired the launch of The Sandra Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about organ donation in underserved and undereducated communities. Mr. Woods proudly leads his family’s organization as President and they start to establish their footing as a nonprofit. Mr. Woods arrived in Connecticut through athletics, attending Southern Connecticut State University where he was a member of the Men’s 1996–1997 NCAA Elite Eight Basketball Team. He earned his Bachelor’s degree there and later obtained a Master’s in Human Services from Walden University. A recognized community leader, Mr. Woods has received numerous honors, including: 2013 Passion Award 2019 Maytag Dependable Leadership Award 2020 Community Leadership Award from the Stamford Boys and Girls Club Known for his dynamic leadership and authentic presence, Mr. Woods brings a winning culture, an unmatched ability to connect with youth, and a deep understanding of the power of positive adult role models. His personal journey—from troubled teen to trusted mentor—drives his passion for helping young people find purpose and power in their own stories. He currently resides in Connecticut with his wife, Patricia, and their two children, Alexis and Hunter.