Remembering Father Leo E. Perino: Lessons in Life and Leadership

As Father’s Day approaches, I reflect on my first celebration without my father, Leo E. Perino. Dad passed away peacefully in May 2026, shortly after his retirement at 79. His dedication to work and love for his daughters shaped my life profoundly.

Friends who are now raising daughters impress me daily. They seem adept at nurturing strong bonds with their girls. Here are five principles my father embodied that significantly influenced my success and happiness.

1. Teaching Equality Early

Growing up in the 1970s, my sister Angie and I witnessed the rise of the ‘girl power’ movement. Dad never needed speeches about equality; he demonstrated it. He consistently told us that girls could achieve anything. This mindset encouraged us to aim high. I owned a T-shirt declaring, “Anything boys can do, girls can do better,” reinforcing the belief in our potential.

2. Prioritizing Education and Reading

Early literacy and a love for reading became central to my upbringing. As a third-grader, discussing two newspaper articles with Dad each evening became a tradition. We shared and debated news stories, which honed my analytical skills and love for current events. Reading wasn’t just about information; it taught me critical thinking.

3. Encouraging Articulation and Debate

Dad valued clear communication. Discussing news and politics with him built my confidence to express ideas. This preparation proved invaluable, from speaking with future bosses to addressing wide audiences on Fox News Channel. Fathers focusing on their daughters’ communication skills can help them become more assured individuals.

4. Emphasizing Faith

Church played a significant role in our family life. I preferred the early service to catch Sunday shows, while my sister cherished attending together. Our parents instilled strong values and a belief in a higher power, providing resilience through grief and joy alike.

5. Leading Without Judgment

Upon finishing graduate school, I realized my degree didn’t align with my career goals. Though apprehensive about disappointing Dad, his response was supportive. He calmly reassured me, “That’s great. We’ll figure it out.” He provided comfort without judgment, becoming a reliable refuge when the world felt overwhelming.

These principles laid the foundation for a lasting legacy. At his passing, Dad left behind a world where equality, education, communication, faith, and support became our guiding lights. Although he didn’t finish reading his book, his story had a satisfying conclusion in the way he lived and loved.

To all fathers raising daughters, your impact is immense. Thank you for your unwavering presence and support. Dana Perino is a co-anchor of FOX News Channel’s America’s Newsroom and co-host of The Five. She joined the network in 2009 and hosts the podcast Perino on Politics.