Where Do You Begin with Deidra Suber (Sanders)?

Where does one even begin when writing a tribute to Deidra Suber (Sanders)? Maybe, as Deidra herself once said, you start at the beginning.

“I joined Grassroots in 2009 after a fellow athlete asked me to join. I fell in love after the first session. Grassroots was very scrappy in 2009, and as we were still learning our way outside of college campuses, learning how to run a non-profit, and also learning how to connect with schools.”

That’s how she told the story, humbly, matter-of-factly, like she just showed up and found something to love. But those who were there remember it differently. They say the day Deidra walked into her first Grassroots Health training, the room buzzed in a new way. Her presence wasn’t just noticed, it was felt. And that’s how I felt when she taught me my first Grassroots shout-out back in 2010.

Shaping the Culture of Grassroots Health

Deidra didn’t just participate in Grassroots programming; she transformed it. She brought an unmatched blend of charisma, conviction, and compassion that made classrooms come alive. Programs with Deidra were always fun, but kids also left each class with the key messages imprinted in their brains (because you never wanted to disappoint Deidra). It’s no wonder her Grassroots nickname became “Diva,” not in the flashy sense, but in the way that every space she entered became bigger, brighter, and more electric.

While excelling as a 2-time All-American track athlete, 2-time Big East champion, and the Georgetown Community Service Student-Athlete of the year, Deidra somehow found time to organize programs, recruit athletes, and keep Grassroots running in its early, scrappy years. After graduation, she balanced building her career with managing our local grants and programs to sustain the organization, long before there was full-time staff to do it.

Guided by Purpose

After living in 5 different cities and beginning a family, Deidra rejoined Grassroots Health as a Board member, stepping in right when the organization was at a crossroads: new strategic plan, new brand, a pandemic on the horizon, and a major leadership transition ahead. As always, she met the moment with strength and grace. During her tenure, she helped guide the organization through growth, stabilization, and renewed purpose, even serving as Vice Chair to help shape the structure and cohesion that defines the Board today.

But Deidra’s impact has never been limited to titles or roles. She continues to change lives in every corner of her world: in her corporate career, in her community, and in her family. Whether it’s her former Grassroots participants, her three beautiful children, her husband, her many nieces and nephews, or even a stranger crossing her path — Deidra has an uncanny ability to see people clearly and give them exactly what they need, even if it comes with a bit of her signature “tough love.”

Reflections from Leadership

I asked Founder and Former Executive Director, Tyler Spencer, to speak about Deidra’s impact. Here’s what he said: “Since Grassroots Health’s earliest days in 2009, Deidra has worn so many hats. When she saw a need for leadership, she led. When she realized we needed inspiration and a morale boost during tough times, she offered it. And now, many years later, as a distinguished alum of Grassroots Health, she makes consistent, generous financial contributions to help move Grassroots forward. Her service on the board has been an important step in supporting Grassroots Health, and the whole GRH community is grateful for her service. And we know that Deidra will always be in Grassroots Health’s corner no matter what comes next!”

To write about Deidra is to write about a true leader. One that lifts others, builds bridges, and leaves every space better than she found it. Grassroots Health would not be what it is today without her imprint. And those who have had the privilege of working alongside her know: once Deidra enters your story, things are never quite the same again.

We want to thank Deidra for her time on the Grassroots Health Board, and look forward to the inevitable ways she’ll continue to shape this organization in the future.