Taranika Sanders

Hello! My name is Taranika Sanders, and I am honored to serve as the Director of the Think Tank at the University of Arizona. In this role, I am responsible for articulating and advancing the vision for enhancing student success through learning center services while fostering strong relationships within the department and across campus. My work includes strategic planning, partnership development, staff development, and fiscal and policy management to ensure students receive the support they need to thrive academically.

I am currently pursuing my doctorate in the Teaching, Learning, and Sociocultural Studies program at the University of Arizona. Prior to joining the Think Tank, I spent eight proud years as the principal of Utterback Middle School in Tucson Unified School District. Before becoming a principal, I was an assistant principal and also taught both middle school and high school English in the Chicago Public School system. I remain deeply passionate about education, literacy, and creating opportunities for students to succeed.

I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Education from DePaul University and my Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from Saint Xavier University. I was born and raised in Chicago, a city that continues to shape who I am and how I view the world. While my husband and daughter live with me in Tucson, most of my extended family still lives in Chicago. Together, my husband and I are proud parents of three college-aged children.

When I am not working or studying, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, and diving into great science fiction books and shows. Octavia Butler is my favorite author of all time, and her work continues to inspire me. I also enjoy crime documentaries and podcasts, and I love any opportunity to visit Chicago. Finally, I am the proud dog mom of Ari Luna, our miniature poodle, who keeps our family entertained and on our toes.