Northstar Legacy Stories
Bring the power of certified storyteller, Len Nevels,
to your event, classroom, or community.
Custom performances available for schools, museums, military organizations, civic groups, and cultural festivals.
History lived, honored and shared
len nevels
Early Life and Formative Years
Born in the aftermath of World War II, my childhood occurred during a period before the landmark Supreme Court decision on Brown v. Board of Education. Growing up, I was confined by the invisible boundaries of Red Lines on real estate maps, which dictated where people of color could live. My parents, a pullman porter and a seamstress, having endured even harsher restrictions, made it a priority to protect my siblings and I from the challenges imposed by southern customs, Jim Crow laws, and discriminatory covenants.
Family Values and Upbringing
At home, my father, Harry, a Baptist church deacon, fostered a disciplined and nurturing environment. My mother, Mary, was the daughter of a master tailor and a school teacher. She was quiet, nurturing and fearlessly protective of the family. There were always warm, delicious smells wafting through the house – ever ready to feed family and friends. Dinner table routines included each child reciting a Bible verse, practicing good table manners and using proper English. Though I was often teased by classmates for sounding “too proper,” these strong communication skills would prove invaluable throughout my life.
Proven Track
My oratory abilities were recognized early in my academic journey. I was chosen to recite the poem “The Creation” by James Weldon Johnson for a high school assembly. In college, I earned a seasonal position with the National Park Service as a Park Guide with a notable background in history. Upon graduating, I was immediately hired to train Air Force military personnel on the installation and maintenance of a critically needed component for the Southeast Asia Theater of Operations.
Leadership and Community Service
My commitment to service extended beyond the military. I worked as a statewide science demonstrator and later became Executive Director of a community college program that provided free access to advanced communications systems, ranging from computer tutorials to global video conferencing. My organizational skills led to serving several years on the convention planning and operations committee for Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., where I was eventually elevated to chairman.
A Legacy of Storytelling
Inspired by my father’s storytelling competitions with his twin brother, I developed a passion for sharing stories. I became a certified storyteller and author, with memorable tales such as those about my dog Peanut and “The Two Water Fountains Where the Water Tasted the Same.”
LESSONS LEARNED
Over the course of 31 years of military service, I lived and worked in many distant places but never felt the need to call anywhere else home. My enduring patriotism is reflected in this quote: “America may be ill, but I’ll hold her hand until she gets better.” – Lt. Col. Sherman Holloway, Tuskegee Airman
the voice
Len's Life Lessons
Len Nevels’ stories resonate across generations,
offering both reflection and inspiration.
Testimonials
He makes history breathe—our students walked away not only knowing more, but feeling more.
Cheryl henry Atlanta, GA
A man who elevates your knowledge in the area of forgotten military heroes from past to present.
Troy jones,
TAI Convention
Len Nevels
Remembering the South. Honoring Sacrifice. Inspiring Generations.
