The Making of a MAD Man- How a Former Inner-City Principal Was Shaped to Serve Through Motivation, Adversity, and Determination

In the second edition of Dr. Diop’s book on inner-city schools, he takes readers on a journey through his life, highlighting his motivations, struggles, and determination. Starting where he left off in his previous book, “Inner-City Public Schools Still Work- How One Principal’s Life is Living Proof,” Dr. Diop delves into the details of his early struggles, including living in a segregated neighborhood and facing racism and discrimination. Despite these challenges, he became the principal of a challenging high school in his hometown. Dr. Diop firmly believes that our circumstances do not determine our desired outcomes; rather, our reaction to those circumstances matters. Growing up, excelling in school was not valued in his neighborhood; instead, vices like drinking and smoking were prioritized. However, at a young age, Dr. Diop heard a silent whisper from God, guiding him to not follow that path. Since then, he has dedicated himself to spreading the message of the power of a positive attitude in all situations. He also shares his personal story with school leaders, emphasizing how a positive mindset can improve student performance. Dr. Diop’s leadership skills were honed through a life filled with overcoming obstacles. His book is a must-read for anyone concerned about neighborhood schools’ challenges and how self-belief can help us overcome adversity and achieve our goals.