Dr. Amber Banks is the Founder & CEO of the Center for Trust and Transformation (CTT). She is a seasoned social sector leader with over two decades of experience in the education, nonprofit, and philanthropic sectors. Dr. Banks works with organizations and foundations across the country to examine how race and power shape our relationships and institutions. Through the Center for Trust and Transformation, she provides facilitation, coaching, training, and advising to social sector leaders advancing joy, justice, and liberation. Her approach is distinguished by its emphasis on understanding how context and identity shape relationships and inform collaborative efforts for social transformation.

Dr. Banks began her career as a Special Education teacher in Los Angeles, where she worked primarily with neurodivergent youth and young people with autism. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Journalism from Boston University and a Ph.D. in Education Leadership, Organizations, and Policy from the University of Washington. Her doctoral research broke new ground in understanding how cross-cultural, cross-sector trust networks can advance social justice. She has earned certifications as a Healing Centered Coach and Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP), and her leadership has been recognized through fellowships with Education Pioneers, the Pahara Institute, and Mosaic Changemakers. Dr. Banks also serves on the board of the Groundswell Fund.

Dr. Banks lives in Nashville, TN with her partner, two children, and beloved pets. She finds joy in writing, capoeira, swimming, outdoor adventures, and tending to her garden—activities that mirror her professional commitment to nurturing growth and transformation. 

Dr. Banks loves to dream of what’s possible when we work together from a place of trust and healing. [LinkedIn]