Willie Byrd Jr.

Willie Byrd Jr. started their career in 2008 as a 6th grade ELA teacher at Shelby County Schools. In 2014, they joined Teach For America and served as a Manager of Teacher Leadership Development, where they worked closely with school principals and coaches to provide individualized support to teachers. From 2016 to 2020, they served as the Director of Talent & Institute Operations, overseeing staffing campaigns and organizing regional events. Willie then transitioned to the role of Director of Alumni Coach, supporting alumni in achieving exemplary teacher ratings and facilitating the Aspiring School Leader Fellowship. In 2022, they became the Director of Communications & People Experience, and in 2023 they were promoted to the role of Managing Director of Learning & Capabilities. During their tenure, they also served as a DEI Facilitator and Resource Group Leader, conducting sessions for corps members and supporting the needs of black staff.

Willie Byrd Jr. completed their Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in International Business at Xavier University - Williams College of Business from 2004 to 2008. Willie then pursued a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching from Christian Brothers University, where they studied from 2008 to 2012. Recently, from 2020 to 2021, Willie attended the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, obtaining a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Education Entrepreneurship.