Derrick Stephens

Background

About Derrick Stephens

Derrick Stephens, MBA, LCSW, QS currently serves as the Innovation and Immersive Learning Manager (Research Faculty) with the Florida Institute for Child Welfare, Grow Center, housed under Florida State University College of Social Work. Mr. Stephens leads and manages the development, testing and deployment of SaaS and mobile application platforms, VR workforce training simulations and an onsite simulation lab to assist child welfare professionals to build resiliency and grow in their careers. Previously, Mr. Stephens served as Research Faculty with Florida State College of Medicine, Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine developing curriculum, facilitating professional development and leadership trainings and executive coaching to child welfare professionals and leaders with the Florida Department of Children and Family Services. In addition to his career and experience in academia, Mr. Stephens has 15yrs experience in healthcare and sales ranging from medical social work to medical device sales. This experience has afforded him the opportunity to become an expert behaviorist with in-depth knowledge of the human experience, learning, emotional intelligence and habit formation. Mr. Stephens has been a lifelong advocate for vulnerable populations, specifically children and families involved with the child welfare system. His passion and dedication stem from his personal journey spending his childhood in and out of the Georgia and Florida foster care system. Mr. Stephens is dedicated to ensuring access to education, physical and mental wellness, and innovative technology for At-Promise Youth and Families. Mr. Stephens is CEO of Phoenix Healthcare Consultants and the founder of Underdog Dream, a 501c not-for-profit dedicated to At-Promise Youth and Families. My thoughts and opinions are my own and do not represent those of Florida State.