Byron Sanders

Byron Sanders is a passionate advocate for the holistic well-being and success of all students in Dallas. As a newly elected member of the DISD Board of Trustees, Byron brings a unique perspective, drawing on his experience in education, community development, and healthcare innovation.

Beyond his commitment to DISD, Byron is the Founder and CEO of Arete Health, where he leads efforts to improve access to preventive care and innovative healthcare solutions. This experience informs his understanding of the crucial link between student health, well-being, and academic achievement, making him a strong advocate for policies and programs that support the whole child.

Before joining Arete Health, Byron served as President and CEO of Big Thought, where he led groundbreaking initiatives to close the opportunity gap for youth in marginalized communities. At Group Excellence, Byron contributed to building one of the fastest-growing education companies in Texas, impacting over 250,000 students. His leadership roles at U.S. Trust and the Dallas Education Foundation enabled him to forge partnerships that unlocked opportunities for schools and communities alike.

Byron's work has earned numerous recognitions, including the Dallas Business Journal's 2022 Most Admired CEO Award, the NCAA Legends and Legacy Community Award, and the CASEL O'Brien Award for Excellence in Social-Emotional Learning. As a Presidential Leadership Scholar, Byron has been honored by the Dallas Foundation, NAACP, and the Dallas Business Journal's 40 Under 40 Awards for his commitment to building more equitable systems.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Byron remains an engaged community leader, serving on the boards of the Dallas College Foundation, the Dallas Regional Chamber, and For Oak Cliff. He is also a trustee of his alma mater, the University of Tulsa. Outside his professional and community commitments, Byron finds his greatest joy with his wife, Celeste, and their two children.

Byron believes that a thriving community requires a thriving school system and that every student deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. He is committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure that DISD is a beacon of excellence for all students.