Meet Irene Sanders | Leadership Executive Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Irene Sanders and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Irene, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I never imagined my path would lead from Reno, Nevada, to becoming a pivotal figure in Johns Creek’s leadership development landscape. My Georgia story began in 1981 when my husband Eric was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons, marking the start of our NFL journey.

After six years in Atlanta, Eric was traded to the Detroit Lions where we were part-time residents. It was there that we began our family, and I discovered my passion for community engagement. As a stay-at-home mom, I threw myself into our children’s schools and our homeowners’ association, eventually rising to become HOA President, a position oddly enough I still hold.

My path to professional leadership emerged unexpectedly. During a heated battle against a controversial zoning proposal that threatened several neighborhoods, I found myself leading the opposition. It was at one of the many planning meetings that a familiar face from my children’s elementary school approached me about an opportunity that would change my life: the Executive Director position at Student Leadership Johns Creek, which I recently rebranded to Student Leadership NORTH.

That conversation happened over a decade ago. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of directing both the adult and student programs, transforming what was once a modest city leadership initiative into something far more impactful. We’ve evolved from a sleepy city program into a highly regarded regional powerhouse that has become the envy of many North Atlanta communities.

Looking back on this journey, I’m proud of how I have elevated Student Leadership NORTH into a model program. It’s proof that sometimes life’s unexpected turns can lead us exactly where we need to be.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As the incoming Executive Director of Student Leadership Johns Creek (NORTH), I inherited a three-year-old program that lacked clear direction. The existing curriculum relied heavily on picture card exercises and was missing a structured vision for its two-year developmental journey. Recognizing the need for immediate change, I took decisive action—restructuring the program and establishing a new direction, even as the program year was underway. Pivot is literally my middle name!

My leadership approach centers on innovation and thoughtful evolution, always focused on our core mission: empowering students with leadership skills and confidence that serve them well beyond high school. The program’s impact is evident in our growing alumni network, with many former students returning to mentor current participants or sharing how their experience continues to influence their college and professional lives.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When friends visit Atlanta, I prefer a blend of relaxed hospitality and local adventures. Our time often begins with casual conversation at home, catching up over coffee or drinks. From there, I love sharing Atlanta’s highlights—cheering on the Braves, exploring the scenic wineries dotting the region – my favorite is Yonah Mountain Winery, or hiking the beautiful trails of North Georgia. If my guest is game, we might even squeeze in a friendly match of pickleball. For me, Atlanta’s charm lies in these simple pleasures that showcase both Southern hospitality and our vibrant outdoor culture.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Definitely my parents. Looking back on my journey, I see their fingerprints everywhere. Their unconditional love wasn’t just words – it was packed lunches and late-night homework help, showing up and believing in me even when I doubted myself. They helped build a foundation under my feet strong enough to let me dream big, yet safe enough to catch me if I fell.

From our Reno days through every twist and turn life has taken, your support has been my constant. They taught me that leadership starts with service, that community matters, and that standing up for what’s right is always worth it. Those lessons have shaped every role I’ve taken on, from raising my own family to guiding future leaders through Student Leadership Johns Creek (NORTH).

The confidence to take on challenges and the resilience to push through tough times – that all started with my parents. They gave me strong roots that kept me grounded and wings bold enough to help me soar. I use the lessons they taught every day in my dealings with the future generation.

Website: https://www.studentleadershipnorth.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studentleadershipnorth/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irenesanders1/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studentleadershipnorth

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUmqZX422Kl25fgOmN2pnNA

Image Credits
Randee Nagler, Linda McCain