IYT Maryland/DC Welcomes Ryan Turner as New Executive Director

Improve Your Tomorrow (IYT) is excited to announce that Ryan Turner has been appointed as the new Executive Director of IYT Maryland and DC. A Baltimore native and long-time champion for youth, Ryan brings over 12 years of nonprofit executive leadership experience in college access, workforce development, and policy advocacy. He steps into this role following the departure of Karleton Thomas, who will continue his commitment to youth advocacy in the Maryland/DC community.

Ryan is no stranger to IYT’s mission. As a member of IYT Maryland’s Board of Advisors, he has been instrumental in shaping our strategy and ensuring young men of color receive the support they need to achieve their college and career goals. His deep-rooted experience in educational equity and community development makes him the ideal leader to drive IYT Maryland forward.

Throughout his career, Ryan has dedicated himself to dismantling barriers for young people of color. He has held executive leadership roles at Baltimore’s Promise, GreenLight Fund Baltimore, Community Law in Action, and The Akoben Foundation, where he led initiatives to improve postsecondary access, economic mobility, and youth empowerment. His expertise in scaling programs, forging partnerships, and advocating for systemic change will be critical as IYT Maryland continues to grow.

Ryan shared his excitement about stepping into this role, “I have dedicated my career to ensuring that young people—especially young men of color—have the support, opportunities, and access they need to succeed. IYT Maryland is doing transformational work, and I am honored to lead this next chapter. Together, we will expand our impact, deepen our partnerships, and continue empowering the next generation of leaders.”

Ryan’s leadership marks an exciting new chapter for IYT Maryland. Please join us in welcoming Ryan to the IYT family!

Stay tuned for opportunities to connect with Ryan and learn more about his plans for IYT Maryland in the coming months.

About IYT Maryland/DC: Improve Your Tomorrow is dedicated to increasing the number of young men of color to attend and graduate from colleges and universities. Through mentorship, college access programs, and development, IYT is working to close the opportunity gap and empower the next generation of leaders.