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Derrick Watson has a diverse work experience in the social work and counseling field. Derrick began their career in 2007 at Sequoia Community Initiatives, where they served as a Program Director and later as the Director of Social Services. In these roles, they were responsible for managing the overall administration of residential facilities and ensuring quality services and compliance with regulatory agencies.

In 2009, Watson joined Bowery Residents' Committee as a Program Director, where their responsibilities included overseeing the administration of a 200-bed male assessment residential facility. Derrick managed all aspects of the operation, such as budget, program design, staffing, and liaising with funding sources and referral agencies. Watson later became the Vice President of Assessment and Mental Health Shelter Services, where they continued to play a key role in the organization's management.

Additionally, Watson has been involved in the academic field as an Advisor/Lecturer at Columbia University School of Social Work. Derrick provided support to students and field instructors, ensuring their educational objectives were met and facilitating the integration of field and class learning.

In their role as a Pastor, Watson served at First United Methodist Church of Newburgh and Gardentown UMC from 2015 to 2018.

Furthermore, Watson has contributed to the development of future social work professionals by acting as a Field Instructor Certification (SIFI) for Social Work Students at various schools of social work since 2010.

Derrick Watson, MSW, MDiv, has a comprehensive education history that demonstrates a strong focus in social work and theology. Their educational journey began in 1999 at Hunter College, where they studied social work for three years. Following this, they attended Yeshiva University from 2002 to 2006, earning their Master of Social Work (MSW) degree with a concentration in Case Work/Group. Derrick's passion for theology led him to enroll at Drew University from 2006 to 2011, where they pursued coursework in theology and social work, although no degree is specified. Finally, they completed their academic pursuits at New York Theological Seminary from 2012 to 2014, attaining a Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree in Theology/Social Work. This educational background indicates Derrick's commitment to both spiritual and social well-being, positioning him as a qualified professional in their field.