
Derrick E. Felton is a dedicated Army Veteran with a robust background in social work, education, and mentorship. Over his career, he has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting Veterans and their families, particularly in the areas of mental health and end-of-life care.
During his tenure at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Derrick served as the Director for the Peninsula Vet Center in Redwood City, CA, providing crucial counseling services to Veterans. His role as a Veteran Liaison at Vitas Healthcare underscored his dedication to supporting Veterans facing end-of-life issues.
In 2019, Derrick transitioned to academia, taking on multiple roles as an adjunct psychology professor and mental health counselor at De Anza College and faculty instructor at Cal State East Bay. Through these positions, he has played a pivotal role in mentoring and educating the next generation of social workers and mental health professionals.
Derrick’s advocacy is also reflected in his work as a per diem Medical Social Worker at Eden Medical Center and his volunteer role with the California State Guard. He is deeply committed to promoting the well-being of his community through his professional endeavors and his extensive volunteer efforts.
His leadership extends beyond local service, as demonstrated by his role as Co-Chair of the Secondary School Committee for the University of Pennsylvania. He is a proud advocate for education, community service, and the intersection of both.
A Gold Plus Life Member of Blacks In Government (BIG), Derrick is a passionate advocate for Veteran support through his role with the Cooperative Studies Program Coordinating Center. In 2024, Derrick was honored as the Father’s Uplift Fellow of the Year for his work in providing counseling to men seeking to overcome challenges and become positive presences in their children’s lives.
Derrick is also a co-founder of Black Men at Penn, an initiative fostering a conduit between the African American community and the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice.
In August 2024, Derrick earned his Doctorate of Social Work from the University of Southern California Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, marking another milestone in his lifelong commitment to service, education, and advocacy.
Comments