Majlis Ash-Shooraa

Imam A. Quddoos Farra’d is a educator, and military veteran with deep roots in both his faith and his service to others. Born in Englewood, New Jersey, to Catherine and Isaac, originally of Dolphin, Virginia, Imam Farra’d has lived a life dedicated to both spiritual growth and community advancement. He was educated in the Englewood public school system, attending Lincoln Elementary, Englewood Jr. High, and Dwight Morrow High School.

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A devoted father of seven—Tyra, Kyra, Catherine, Caroline, Hazel, Ameer, and Louis—Imam Farra’d is married to Jillian Olbis Farra’d, and together, they foster a strong family foundation centered on faith and service.

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Imam Farra’d's journey as a servant-leader began with his military service in the U.S. Army in 1967, where he trained at Fort Dix, Fort Jackson, and Fort Leonard Wood. A certified Combat Engineer, he was deployed to Vietnam, where he served with distinction in the 1st Infantry Division and the 1st Cavalry Division. He rose to the rank of Sergeant, receiving multiple honors, including the prestigious Bronze Star. His military career culminated as a Drill Sergeant before he was honorably discharged. During his time at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, he also served as a Minister for the Nation of Islam.

A lifelong learner, Imam Farra’d earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Thomas Edison State University and an Associate of Science degree from Passaic Community College. He also holds a paralegal certification for New Jersey and New York. In his pursuit of further knowledge, he is currently studying classical Arabic and received an Ijazah from Sunnah College in 2023.

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Professionally, Imam Farra’d worked as an Eligibility Specialist/Social Worker for the NYC Department of Social Services, helping countless individuals navigate social assistance programs. His leadership extends to his roles on the Board of the Muslim League of Voters (Passaic County) and New Africa Credit Union, and as Chair of the Dawah Committee for the Council of Imams of New Jersey.

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Imam Farra’d made a significant transition in 1975, leaving the Nation of Islam and embracing the teachings of Al Islam under the leadership of Imam W.D. Mohammed. He became the assistant Imam at Masjid Malcolm Shabazz, where he dedicated himself to both spiritual leadership and community outreach. He has volunteered as a chaplain in the New York State Prison System and has coordinated Dawah efforts across the Northeast Region of the U.S.

 

In his quest to deepen his understanding of Islamic scholarship, Imam Farra’d studied under some of the most revered scholars of our time, including Imam W.D. Mohammed, Sheikh Ahmad Rifa’i, Sheikh Chebli, and Sheikh Mahmood. His academic pursuits and spiritual guidance have also included completing an accelerated Imam training course with the World Muslim League, which expanded his knowledge in Arabic, Hadith, and Tawheed.

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Imam A. Quddoos Farra’d’s life and work continue to serve as a model of faith, resilience, and commitment to community service.