Junichi Lockett is Ph.D. student in educational leadership and policy studies at The University of Texas at Arlington. A native of Fort Worth, Texas, Lockett graduated from Paul Laurence Dunbar High School before joining the United States Marine Corps, where he participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom. After being honorably discharged, Lockett enrolled at UT Arlington, where he earned a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in community and public affairs, and a master’s degree in urban affairs and public policy. Lockett has served as a teacher, consultant, advocate, and youth development trainer. The author of three books, Lockett has also been active in political campaign management, organizing, and canvassing. He is passionate about education and plans a career in higher education that includes helping organizations implement and evaluate programming and projects for community improvement and social justice and empowerment.