Qu’ Derrick R. Covington, M.S. 

Executive Director

Qu’ Derrick R. Covington, M.S. 

Mr. Covington, widely recognized as a sought-after speaker, presenter, leadership development coach, and mentor, has captivated audiences across the nation with his powerful messages. With an impressive track record of speaking to crowds exceeding 3000, he has delivered interactive workshops, seminars, and keynote addresses that leave a lasting impact. In 2018, Qu' Derrick was hailed as one of the most influential voices of his generation, touching the lives of individuals of all ages. His expertise and accomplishments have earned him recognition in esteemed publications such as Black Male PhDs, Howard University Bison Beat, and The Academy of Preachers, to name a few. In 2016, Mr. Covington received a special invitation from Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge to discuss crucial issues concerning voting rights and the challenges faced by millennials today at our nation's capital. In 2022, he was honored with an invitation to present at the White House for the Ocean Science and Technology Subcommittee, where he addressed the pressing need to promote diversity in Ocean Science within Black and Brown communities, with a particular focus on historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and minority-serving institutions (MSIs). Qu' Derrick holds a bachelor's degree from Fayetteville State University and is an esteemed member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., having served on the fraternity's national board of directors as the 59th Southern Region Assistant Vice President. Furthering his education, he pursued a Master's of Science degree at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) while also holding a degree in Christian Ministry from More Than Conquerors College in Charlotte, N.C. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership and Policy at Howard University. With a diverse professional background, Mr. Covington has held prominent positions throughout his career, including the roles of DEI Director and Chief Diversity Officer at a Florida-based institution. However, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to become a full-time entrepreneur. In 2019, he founded The Tulsa Initiative Inc., an entrepreneurship mentoring platform that empowers and motivates individuals, inspiring them to liberate themselves through business and make a positive impact on their communities. Additionally, he is the proud owner of QD Real Estate Company, with locations in the DMV and NC areas. Mr. Covington wholeheartedly embraces his life's work of transforming and empowering others through his compelling life stories. He also serves on the Fayetteville State University Foundation Board and the City of Fayetteville Airport Commission, as a Commissioner. In recognition of his remarkable achievements, Mr. Covington was named class of 2023 40-Under-40 at FAMU and the City of Fayetteville!