Dr. Byron Ernest - Impact Leadership Global Award 2024

Byron has had extensive experience globally leading online and in person facilitation of groups and consulting. He has experienced diverse business contexts and engaged in cultural exchanges with colleagues from around the world, while tackling international issues related to education and other industries. Byron will become a value-added partner, using creativity and collaboration to contribute professional expertise and multi-level support to help you realize you full potential. Dr. Byron Ernest is a former (2010) Indiana “Teacher of the Year” and formerly served as Director of Educator Development and Partnerships for Noble Education Initiative, Inc. where he developed and provided professional development and education leadership training globally. 

Previously, Dr. Ernest was Superintendent/Head of Schools for Hoosier Academies Network of Schools. He also served as principal at Emmerich Manual High School in Indianapolis after it was taken over by the State for receiving seven consecutive failing annual performance grades. As principal, Dr. Ernest developed a new staff and culture of excellence focusing on high student achievement and performance. The State removed Manual off the state’s “F” list under Byron’s leadership.

Prior to going to Manual, Dr. Ernest worked as the Department Head for Agriculture and FFA at Lebanon Community School Corporation. During his tenure he was named the 2011 Christopher Columbus Foundation National Outstanding Agriscience Teacher. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and Agricultural Education and a Master’s in Education from Purdue University. He received his Doctorate from Walden University in Administrator Leadership for Teaching and Learning. Dr. Ernest completed the Certificate for Advanced Educational Leadership program at Harvard University, where he continues Post-Doctoral Studies. Byron serves as a policy maker and citizen leader on the Indiana State Board of Education were he led a very successful statewide systemic change to Indiana’s graduation requirements. He chaired the Graduation Pathways Pathway’s Panel created by the Indiana Legislature to study and make recommendations to the Indiana State Board of Education. Ernest led the panel through a series of 10 stakeholder engagement gatherings to craft a successful Graduation Pathways Plan giving students many options for graduation as opposed to a single graduation qualifying exam. Dr. Ernest also currently serves as the immediate past chair of the board of directors for the National Association of State Boards of Education.