My
Story

Derria L. Ford is a dedicated nonprofit leader, strategist, speaker, and storyteller passionate about advancing equity and opportunity through philanthropy. As an experienced nonprofit executive, she has led fundraising, donor engagement, volunteerism, and communications and marketing efforts to support a range of organizations in the social services sector.

 

Over the past two decades, Derria has worked with institutions such as Middle Tennessee State University, Meharry Medical College, Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands, the Martha O’Bryan Center, and numerous other organizations through consulting projects.

 

With a proven track record of transformational impact, Derria has successfully raised millions in philanthropic support, improved donor retention, and expanded corporate and community partnerships.

 

A champion of ethical storytelling and strengths-based leadership, Derria has shared her expertise as a speaker at national conferences including AFP LEAD, AFP ICON, the OneCause Fundraising Conference, Management Information Exchange, and Equal Justice University. In 2024, she was honored as the Young Professional of the Year by the Jones College of Business at Middle Tennessee State University.

 

Derria holds a Doctorate in Leadership and Professional Practice from Trevecca Nazarene University and a Master of Business Administration from Middle Tennessee State University. Her academic foundation, paired with her real-world experience, fuels her commitment to strategic growth, leadership development, and meaningful community impact.

 

 

When she’s not fundraising, you’ll find Derria building authentic connections, championing equity-centered initiatives, and continually learning to enhance the reach and effectiveness of her work. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, attending live concerts, and exploring new experiences that inspire joy and creativity.