Derek is an energetic and passionate journalism graduate from Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  Derek has lived in the Midwest nearly his whole life, particularly his hometown of Cedar Rapids. In 2018 Derek was inducted into the National Society for Leadership and Success. In his free time, Derek enjoys playing games and coaching swimming. Derek worked in the restaurant industry before going back to school, and while he enjoyed it, he felt his horizons were beyond.

During his time in the restaurant industry, Derek gained a perspective of what it means to be an integral part of a team. He took this maturity into his studies at Kirkwood Community College earning his AS, then continued to grow at Mount Mercy University.