We Celebrate Black History Month 2009
National PTA CEO Named One of 50 Men of Excellence
Chicago Defender Honors PTA’s First-Ever Male, African-American CEO
National PTA Chief Executive Officer, Byron V. Garrett, was named one of Chicago Defender’s 50 Men of Excellence—the newspaper’s annual program that highlights 50 men across varied professional backgrounds to celebrate their accomplishments.
“Engaging parents to be involved in their child’s education starts at the grassroots which is why this honor means so much more to me coming from a media outlet that cares so much about the African-American community and has a rich history of documenting every important event affecting the lives of African-Americans and all who are disenfranchised,” said Garrett. “Now more than ever, it is important for parents, extended family members, and especially men to come together and make a difference in the lives of children.”
Garrett was selected as the National PTA CEO in June 2008 and leads the national office (headquartered in Chicago) to continue the organization’s rich legacy of engaging parents, schools, legislators, and community leaders in improving children’s health, safety, and educational success.
Garrett is a former school administrator, community leader, and education advocate. Before joining PTA, Byron held leadership positions within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the administration of Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano. He is also a published author of several books, including The ABC’s of Life.#
