Derek Wilson is a dedicated advocate for student success and community impact, currently serving as a Student Success Coach at Arizona State University's West Valley campus. In this role, he provides personalized guidance to students as they navigate their academic journeys, connect with university resources, and prepare for meaningful career opportunities. His work is grounded in a commitment to student empowerment, helping learners build the confidence, skills, and support networks needed to achieve academic and professional success.
Previously, Derek served as a Student Success Advocate at ASU's Pat Tillman Veterans Center, where he supported the success of more than 20,000 military-affiliated students. In that role, he expanded access to critical resources, led community-building initiatives, and developed partnerships that strengthened student engagement, belonging, and persistence.
Derek earned his Bachelor of Social Work from Arizona State University, graduating summa cum laude and being recognized as the Outstanding Graduate of the School of Social Work in December 2024. He also holds an Associate of Arts in Social Work from Glendale Community College and an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice from the Community College of the Air Force. In addition, he is a Certified Peer Support Specialist whose professional strengths include student advocacy, strategic planning, collaborative leadership, and solution-focused problem-solving.
A retired U.S. Air Force veteran, Derek has been recognized with numerous honors, including ASU Pitchfork Awards for Emerging Student Leader and Student Worker of the Year. He is also a Spirit of Service Scholar, a recipient of the Congressman Ed Pastor Civic Leadership Award, and a Veteran Scholar. As a student leader, he founded the Student Veterans Organization at Arizona State University and was inducted into several honor societies, including Phi Alpha, Omicron Delta Kappa, Tau Sigma, and Sigma Alpha Pi.
Driven by a lifelong commitment to service, education, and leadership, Derek is passionate about creating opportunities that empower students to thrive, overcome barriers, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.