Derek Ware is a seasoned and accomplished leader with a track record of nearly 25 years in the public and private sectors. His leadership has been marked by the successful implementation of best practices, leading to improved operational efficiencies and economies of scale, and the consistent delivery of quality outcomes across organizations. His ability to foster a collaborative work environment at all levels of an organization is widely recognized and appreciated.

He is the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Detroit Community Health Connection, Inc., a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). DCHC is a primary care organization committed to providing accessible, affordable, and quality service to all members of the communities served. DCHC offers medical, dental, and behavioral health services.

Ware earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Leadership from Cleary University and a dual master’s in healthcare leadership and leadership from Cleary University.   He has received numerous awards/honors, such as a proud Brother of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., a newly elected board member of the Southfield Kappa Alumni Chapter the Nation Society of Leadership and Success Award, The Tom Van Coverden Leadership Award, 2015 Michigan Primary Care Association Distinguished Service Award, MI Cancer Consortium Honorable Mention Men’s Health Initiative Award, NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner Executive Committee/Chair of hall Arrangements fight for Freedom Fund Dinner, Metro Youth Day Planning Committee, 2013 Michigan Chronicle Men of Excellent Award and Treasurer of the Greater Works Foundation.

In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with family, participating in community outreach and engagement activities, and working out.

Derek has served on the Southfield Kappa Foundation Board since 2023 where he served as Secretary until his election to Vice President in 2024.