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Byron Sanders
President & CEO at Big Thought
Byron Sanders is the President and CEO of Big Thought, a nonprofit organization based in Dallas, Texas, that focuses on closing the opportunity gap for youth through innovative educational programs. His leadership is centered on empowering young people by valuing them as co-designers of their futures and equipping them with essential 21st-century skills. Under his guidance, Big Thought has become a national model in arts education, summer learning, and juvenile justice intervention.13
Background and Education
Byron Sanders graduated from The University of Tulsa in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) with a focus on marketing. During his time at the university, he served as president of the TU Student Association and as a University Ambassador. His commitment to education and community service has been a consistent theme throughout his career.24
Career Path
Before joining Big Thought, Sanders held significant roles in various sectors:
- Banking and Finance: He was vice president at U.S. Trust, a private bank under Bank of America.
- Education: He served as executive director of the Dallas Education Foundation and vice president of Group Excellence, which focuses on mentoring at-risk students.34
- Community Engagement: He is actively involved in multiple boards, including the Dallas College Foundation and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.1
Achievements and Recognition
Sanders has received several accolades for his contributions to education and community development:
- 2022 Dallas Business Journal Most Admired CEO
- 2023 NCAA Legends and Legacy Community Award
- CASEL O'Brien Award for Excellence in Social and Emotional Learning (2020)
- Named a Presidential Leadership Scholar in 2017.123
Personal Life
Byron Sanders is married to Celeste, and they have two children. He often expresses his passion for creating equitable opportunities for youth, drawing from his own experiences growing up in southern Dallas.45

