Sharon Lyle

Brainstormer, Event planner, Foodie, Marketer, Philanthropist, Project manager, Promoter

Sharon has always loved a party. What began as a passion for bringing people together has grown into a career rooted in storytelling, collaboration, and impact. She is the founder and president of Ensemble, a Dallas-based experiential design and event production studio that partners primarily with nonprofit organizations to create programs and experiences that bring their missions to life in meaningful, lasting ways. Prior to launching Ensemble, Sharon co-founded Public City, a community engagement firm she co-led from 2013–2017. Sharon began her career in fundraising in San Antonio before earning her MBA from The University of Texas at Austin and joining the creative team at brand agency Arrow. In 2009, she returned to Dallas to co-found and lead TEDxSMU and TEDxKids@SMU—what started as a five-month project became four years with the organization and additional work with TED, ultimately laying the foundation for Ensemble. She currently serves on the boards of Housing Forward and St. John’s Episcopal School and is a member of the Dallas Assembly. A committed collaborator and community-builder, Sharon is proud to call Dallas home and to continue creating experiences that matter.

What comes next.

I drank the TED "Kool Aid" after being asked to run TEDxSMU and TEDxKids @SMU in 2009. Many conferences, trips, friendships, and experiences later, I'm still hooked and turn to TED for inspiration and bright spots.