Derhun Sanders

Derhun Sanders is a decorated Army civilian leader, strategist, and STEM champion whose career has spanned more than 25 years of public service. He currently serves as Chief of Domestic Industry and Academia Partnerships at the U.S. Army’s Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Headquarters, where he leads enterprise-wide initiatives to transition innovative technologies from academic, industry, and federal research partners into the hands of warfighters

A 1997 graduate of Michigan Technological University with a B.S. in Biological Sciences (cum laude), Sanders credits his time at MTU for shaping his lifelong dedication to service, equity, and scientific excellence. As an undergraduate, he was an active campus leader— serving in the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and the Echoes from Heaven Gospel Choir.

He later returned to serve on the Michigan Tech Board of Trustees (2017–2024), the Alumni Board of Directors, and has been a featured keynote speaker and role model for the Summer Youth Programs. Sanders is also a proud recipient of the university’s Percy Julian Award for leadership and academic distinction.

Outside the Army, Sanders has made a mark in STEM education as a volunteer coach for Heroes’ Alliance—a youth technology and leadership organization. Under his mentorship, the Genius Within, Cooperative Learning Center, high school electric-solar car team secured back-to-back national championships in 2022 and 2023.

Sanders previously served on special assignment to the Pentagon in the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology. He has led collaborative efforts with agencies including the Department of Energy (DOE), the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the Office of Naval Research (ONR), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and state-level partners. In recognition of his leadership, he received the Department of the Army’s Meritorious Civilian Service Award.

Sanders draws strength from his faith, family, and music. A devoted husband, he donated a kidney to his wife, Verona, as a 10th anniversary gift. He is the proud father of Cameron, a graduate student at Georgetown University, and an avid fan of both Rascal Flatts and Commissioned.

From the 2025 College of Sciences and Arts Academy Induction.