Derrick Sawyer’s 20-year journey in higher education business and finance traces back to an entrepreneurial start at Delaware State University, where he managed a student-run food business and later the campus newspaper’s finances. Currently serving as associate vice president of budgets, business services and risk management at Community College of Philadelphia, his path led through key roles at Temple University and Drexel University before landing in his current position.
Sawyer offers unique insights from his experience across diverse institution types, from an HBCU to major research universities and now a community college. His leadership philosophy has evolved from a purely transactional approach to one centered on servant leadership and emotional intelligence. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of calculated risk-taking, continuous learning through professional associations, and the power of strong mentorship relationships.
Most compelling is Sawyer’s perspective on higher education leadership: success isn’t just about strategy and performance metrics, but about building meaningful connections across all levels of an institution. His commitment to innovation while maintaining student success at the forefront has shaped his approach to fiscal management and operational excellence. The episode offers valuable insights for professionals at any stage of their higher education career, particularly those interested in business operations, finance, and institutional leadership.
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