Dex Pierce

Background

About Dex Pierce

Born on the west side and raised on the south side of Chicago, Dex Pierce is a devoted, unapologetic, and riveting educator, youth advocate, and mentor who has built a life of dedication toward the growth and development of Chicago's youngest and brightest minds. As a thought partner for fostering community partnerships that support Chicago's youth, Dex has been instrumental in generating opportunities and experiences supporting students in their educational and athletic journeys. Dex’s advocacy and passion for youth sports guided him to coordinate several youth basketball camps across the Chicagoland area, grooming K-12 students who desire to pursue the sport. As a former athlete, Dex has participated in many Pro-Am leagues throughout the United States. His love for basketball and desire to provide foundational practices for youth landed him his current role as the Athletic Director and Head Varsity Boys Basketball coach for Paul Laurence Dunbar Vocational Career Academy, a Chicago Public School located on Chicago's south side. Believing that it is an honor and privilege to serve at the school where he once studied, Dex serves as the Vice President of the institution's Alumni Association. He is an active mentor for the school's students, navigating them toward becoming productive and responsible adults, further solidifying his dedication to improving students' lives and developing them into future leaders. In addition to his work in education and sports, Dex is the owner of Triumph Above Trauma, NFP, an organization created to assist youth in their healing process from trauma they have suffered. Through this initiative, he is committed to utilizing sports to provide support and resources to help young people overcome challenges and thrive. Dex received the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association - Boys High School Coach of the Year Award for the 2018-2019 season. He holds a Master of Arts in Applied Professional Studies with a focus on Sports Management and Professional Development, and is currently pursuing his Doctoral Degree in Sports Management. In addition, Dex has several certifications, including Network Leadership Excellence Program, Illinois Athletic Directors Association, National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association, USA Basketball Gold License Coach, USA Basketball Youth Development, and the American Sports Education Program.