Discover Virginia's South Central Region and AHEC

Center Director

Dr. Derrick Brown

Dr. Derrick Brown was born and raised in Amherst County and is a graduate of Amherst County High School. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech, a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of Lynchburg, and a Doctorate in Leadership Studies in 2018.

Dr. Brown began his career in public education, serving as a teacher, assistant principal, and later principal in both Amherst County and Lynchburg City Schools. He is widely recognized for leading high-impact school turnarounds, improving climate and culture, reducing disciplinary incidents, and expanding college and career pathways for students. His leadership earned multiple regional honors, including Top 20 Under 40, Best Civic Leader, and leading two schools to be named Best Public School by Lynchburg Living Magazine.

He went on to serve as Chief Academic and Student Services Officer for Lynchburg City Schools, where he oversaw division-wide academic, behavioral, and mental health initiatives. Under his leadership, the division secured nearly $10 million in grant funding to expand mental health services, redesign alternative education, and establish the district’s first Restorative Suspension Center to improve student outcomes and reduce barriers to success.

Dr. Brown now serves as the Executive Director of the Free Clinic of Central Virginia, guiding the organization through a critical period of recovery and growth following the loss of its facility due to fire. He leads strategic planning, clinical operations, fundraising, and community partnerships to ensure that thousands of uninsured and underinsured neighbors continue to receive high-quality, accessible healthcare. His work focuses on rebuilding the clinic, strengthening long-term sustainability, and advancing equitable healthcare delivery across Central Virginia.

Dr. Brown is also the founder of IRON Lives, a nonprofit providing youth development and mentoring programs for students across Amherst, Lynchburg, and Bedford for more than 14 years.