Aldwyn Sappleton - 2008 Olympian

Deputy Director -  Research & Economic Analysis

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Aldwyn Sappleton grew up on a small farm that was known to be a plantation estate earlier in the history of Jamaica. From an early age, Aldwyn was exposed influences outside his immediate surroundings and developed a vision of the world that required awareness of economic, social, cultural and political changes that influence the way we live. As a young athlete, he represented his home country at various international events and levels of economic unions, including CARICOM, CAC, Pan American Games and the World Championships. This exposure taught him valuable lessons in sports diplomacy. It also led him to the University of Oklahoma (OU), where he expanded his understanding of the key drivers of local and international businesses and their impacts on community development.

At OU, Aldwyn studied International Business and Economics where he graduated early with Distinction and went on to complete his MBA. During that time Aldwyn competed for the University of Oklahoma where he received four All American honors and was multi-time academic All American and All Big XII awardee. He also won multiple awards based on his strong focus on service and giving back to organizations and communities that serve those in need locally and across the world.

In his quest to make a positive contribution to the world, Aldwyn took an internship at Oklahoma Department of Commerce after completing his MBA. There, he served in successive roles that supported local and international businesses, communities, and non profit organizations. Aldwyn currently serves as Deputy Director of the Research and Economic Analysis Division at Oklahoma Department of Commerce, providing actionable business intelligence to key decision makers ranging from local/international businesses and community leaders to the Governor. He also helps guide the strategy and connections with International Delegations seeking to expand in the US and encourage them to choose Oklahoma. Results include expansions of companies such as Boeing, Kratos Defense, Lufthansa, Raytheon, CMC and many others.

In addition to his work at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, Aldwyn also remained an avid professional athlete competing for Jamaica for a number of years. Some top accomplishments included the 2008 Olympics and the World Championship (2008 silver medal 4X400 team award).

Athletics remains an important part of Aldwyn's life. Equally important are professional accomplishments and community engagement. He currently serves on the board of the Health Alliance for the Uninsured (HAU- a United Way Partner) and is a former President of Sister Cities OKC’s board. He is part of the 2024 US Global Leadership’s (USGLC), Next Gen leadership class and serves on the board of a new USAID non-profit in Oklahoma.

Aldwyn is married to Nikela Sappleton. They have four wonderful and very energetic children (ages 2 to 7 years old) that keep them very busy.