Board of Directors

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Tyrone Byrd, the father of Anthony L. Byrd, established the Anthony L. Byrd Higher Educational Fund in 1994 shortly after Anthony passed away. He was instrumental in running and overseeing the fund from 1994 to 2023 prior to retiring.

Tyrone was a highly respected business owner with over 50 years of successful experience in his field. Throughout his entrepreneurial journey, he built a reputation for excellence and innovation, creating a thriving business that has positively impacted the local economy. In addition, Tyrone's success extended beyond his professional achievements as he was deeply committed to giving back to the community that always supported him throughout the years.

Recognizing the importance of education as a cornerstone for personal and community development, Tyrone made it a priority to support educational efforts. His philanthropic initiatives focused on providing resources and opportunities for students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. He believed that access to quality education could empower individuals and transform lives, creating pathways to success that can benefit entire communities.

Tyrone's contributions included funding scholarships, sponsoring educational programs, and collaborating with local schools and organizations to enhance learning experiences. He often shared his own experiences and insights with students, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and believe in their potential. Through his efforts, Tyrone aimed to inspire the next generation of leaders, equipping them with the tools they needed to succeed academically and professionally.

In summary, Tyrone Byrd stands as a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and the importance of community engagement. His dedication to supporting the scholarship fund initiative reflected his belief in the transformative power of knowledge and the responsibility of successful individuals by uplifting those around him.

Preston Byrd, Anthony's brother, assisted their father in establishing the Anthony L. Byrd Higher Educational Fund in 1994. Preston currently serves as the Boards Chairman and is responsible for fundamentally transforming the scholarship fund through a philosophy of being a servant leadership with a data-driven approach. He is positioning the organization to become a true partner to sponsors, helping them elevate their work by bringing in expertise, technology, and administration. Under his leadership, the scholarship fund has shifted its focus to prioritize students that have a desire of pursuing studies in the areas of medicine, life sciences and STEM while streamlining operations to provide the best possible support to partners. He is also a member of the Funds selection committee.

Preston's business acumen as the Managing Partner of a real estate development firm provides him with a unique set of experiences related to fund management, securing capital and operations. Preston's work with Fortune 500 companies, community foundations, individuals, and philanthropists, brings a deeply personal mission: removing financial barriers so that every student can achieve their dream of a post-secondary education.

Albert K. Taylor was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. He has served as a board member with the fund since its inception. Albert currently serves as the President of the Board of Directors and is responsible for ensuring that the overall goals and objectives of the fund are properly implemented. Albert has served the Memphis Community for more than 26 years as an educator, administrator, mentor, sports coach, and community organizer. He has also served as an assistant coordinator of the St. Jude Walk-A-Thon and as the Public Relations Director for the Prison Ministry on behalf of the Apostolic Deliverance Temple. 

Albert has done volunteer work with the Cancer Answer Week, the Stone Soul Picnic, and as a liaison between the city and church for a City-Wide Baptism event that was spearheaded by his pastor and general overseer Apostle Perry Maples. Many of the community events that he volunteered for were done with his late wife, Tametre Taylor, to include Vacation Bible School, St. Jude Walk-A-Thon, Hallelujah Night, and Back-to-School Giveaways for children in the Memphis Community. 

Educational leadership and service has been the hallmark of Albert’s career. His commitment to education and assisting students with reaching for and obtaining their educational goals is evident in his ongoing work with the Anthony L. Byrd Higher Educational Fund. Albert's contributions have significantly impacted the Memphis community, reflecting his dedication to fostering education and mentorship. He is also a member of the Funds selection committee.

Donette Byrd serves as a Board Member for the scholarship fund. She brings her years of experience as a dedicated educator teaching reading and math intervention to grades K-5. She has a profound love and passion for children and a strong commitment to their growth and development. Her goal has always been to create a nurturing classroom environment where each child feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential. 

Donette's passion for children extends far beyond the classroom; as a board member of the scholarship fund, she actively works to provide opportunities for students to pursue their dreams. Her dual role as an educator and board member reflects her belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive and become the best version of themselves. 

Through her efforts, Donette not only impacts her students' lives directly but also contributes to the broader community by supporting access to education and fostering future success. She is also a member of the Funds selection committee.