Doorways of Purpose and Leadership

The month of January ushers in a season of new beginnings. As the first month of the year, it offers an opportunity to reset, refresh, and recharge, inviting change for the better. January represents both endings and beginnings: a transition from the old to the new, the past to the future. It is a time for reflection and foresight. 

The name January is derived from Janus, the Roman god often depicted with two faces gazing in opposite directions with one looking back, the other looking forward. The Latin word ianua, meaning “doorway,” further symbolizes this passage into what lies ahead. It is a fitting month for transformation, marked by moments of national significance, including the swearing-in of a new president on Inauguration Day and the celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. King’s leadership forged pathways for generations to follow. It created archways of opportunity for men like Derrick R. Clay, who continues to walk in those very footsteps. 

Derrick R. Clay is a dear friend and high school classmate whose life and career exemplify purpose-driven leadership. Born and raised in Toledo, Ohio, Derrick’s political journey began long before he entered boardrooms or led presidential campaigns. Leadership has always been second nature to him. A standout student, he served as student council president and senior class president. Clear signs, even then, that he was destined for greatness. 

While Derrick and I were always friends, our bond grew stronger during our junior year when we were nominated and elected to homecoming court. While decorating our car to drive onto the football field, I accidentally locked the keys inside, during a rainstorm, no less. It’s impossible not to form a lasting connection from an experience that is memorable and laughable. 

Following high school, Derrick left Toledo and made Columbus his home. He attended The University of Akron, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business and Organizational Communication. During his collegiate years, he amassed numerous accolades, serving as student body president, president of Black United Students, and as a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He consistently surrounded himself with leaders, a pattern that would define his career. 

Derrick’s professional path includes serving as an aide to Ohio State Representative and former Ohio State Senator Vernon Sykes, and as the first aide to the late Jack Ford in Columbus. He went on to work with the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus and the Ohio Democratic Party, ultimately serving as State Field Director and State Director for Al Gore’s 2000 presidential campaign. His experience spans local, state, and federal levels, reflecting a lifelong commitment to public service. 

He later became a partner at Ohio’s first African American lobbying firm, New Visions Group, LLC. As CEO, Derrick led the firm until its acquisition by Shumaker Advisors in 2022, where he then served as Senior Vice President. Another milestone in a career marked by excellence and impact. 

In January 2025, life came full circle when Derrick was appointed President and CEO of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. In this role, he is dedicated to driving prosperity and growth throughout the Columbus region by fostering connections, expanding resources, and advocating for the business community. With a forward-thinking approach, Derrick is advancing the Chamber’s vision as a catalyst for a thriving regional economy. 

His deep commitment to collaboration, innovation, and economic inclusion reflects his genuine excitement for the future of the Columbus business community. Through initiatives focused on executive relocation, succession planning, and workforce development, Derrick R. Clay is not just leading, he is walking boldly and unapologetically in his purpose.