PHOENIX, Sept. 16, 2026—Teach For America (TFA) Phoenix, a leading non-profit focused on educational leadership and development, welcomes David Lakin to its regional board of directors. As General Counsel for the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury, Lakin brings legal expertise, leadership experience, and a personal connection to Teach For America's mission.

Lakin started his career as an eighth-grade history teacher through TFA Detroit's corps program, where he also coached youth basketball–an experience that shaped his commitment to educational opportunity and student success.

“One of the things that inspires me most about Teach For America is the community of leaders who choose to take action in support of students and schools. Our newest Board members embody that spirit of service and collaboration,” said Jenny Holsman Tetreault, Board Chair, Teach For America Phoenix.

“Their diverse experiences and perspectives will enrich our Board and strengthen our ability to create lasting impact across Arizona. I am delighted to welcome them and look forward to working together to ensure more children have the opportunity to learn, grow, and realize their full potential.”

Lakin’s journey from Teach For America educator to legal executive exemplifies the power of leadership rooted in service. His firsthand understanding of TFA’s mission, combined with his extensive legal and strategic expertise, will strengthen TFA’s ability to create lasting opportunities for students and communities across Arizona.

Prior to joining the Suns and Mercury, he served as Assistant General Counsel at Citadel and began his legal career with Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP. Lakin earned bachelor’s degrees in political science and history from the University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law.

About Teach For America

Teach For America works in partnership with communities across the country to reach One Day when every child has access to an excellent education. Founded in 1990, Teach For America finds, develops, and supports a growing network of leaders who expand opportunity for children from classrooms, schools, and every sector and field that impacts a young person’s education. Today, Teach For America is a force of over 70,000 alumni, corps members, and Ignite fellows working in pursuit of profound change so that one day every child has the opportunity to learn, lead, thrive, and co-create a future filled with possibility. Teach For America is a proud member of the AmeriCorps national service network. For more information, visit www.teachforamerica.org and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Threads.

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Contact:
Lauren Arndt
Executive Director, Teach For America Phoenix
lauren.arndt@teachforamerica.org