About Derrick
Derrick currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Edvocare, LLC, a special education advocacy organization he founded in 2013. With a background as a 20-year special educator, adjunct professor, a 28-year retired military reserves war-veteran, and Interim Vice-President/ Treasurer for Light The Way Foundation, Derrick brings a wealth of experience to his roles.
Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Derrick moved to Edgewood, Maryland from Germany as a third grader and later graduated from Edgewood High School. He credits the great teachers and coaches at Edgewood Elementary, Middle, and High School, as well as the supportive community, for shaping his academic success, sense of giving, and social maturity.
Derrick is actively involved in the community, serving as a Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He was appointed as a board member on the Governor of Maryland Board of Coordinating Council for Juvenile Services Educational Programs and currently serves as the Vice-Chair of the Charles County Board of Commissioners Police Accountability Board, and Interim Vice-President/ Treasurer for Light The Way Foundation. Derrick is dedicated to being part of the solution in his community, often moderating social justice, education, and mental health forums.
As a two-time author, Derrick has written "I’m Not Complaining, I’m Just Sayin’…Memoirs of the Good and Bad in the Education System" and "Never Judge a Book by Its Cover…It is ok to talk about mental illness." His books reflect his experiences in the education system as well as his personal journey with mental health. Additionally, Derrick is a sports enthusiast, serving as a basketball, volleyball and football official. Derrick is passionate about mentoring youth academically and athletically.
Derrick holds a B.A./M.A. degree in Mass Communications with a concentration in Public Relations from Towson University, an A.A.P.S. degree in Information Management from the Community College of Air Force, and an Advanced Professional Special Education Certification from the VA/MD Departments of Education.
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