Outstanding Leaders Under 40
Derrick L. Quarles
’14 Derrick L. Quarles is the Founder and CEO of The Evolve Group (TEG). TEG is a nonprofit created to increase diversity in tech by providing underrepresented and minority lowincome individuals with hands-on, boot camp-style training. Beyond tech diversity, Quarles is a strong advocate for racial and economic equity, a respected political and community organizer, and a relentless voice for criminal justice reform. He was invited to the White House in 2015 and 2022 due to his unwavering dedication to advocacy. Quarles also contributed to child protection efforts in South Carolina through his service on the DJJ Citizen Review Board. Quarles is an accomplished scholar, holding a bachelor's degree in political science from Claflin University and a Master of Public Administration from Grand Canyon University. Quarles is pursuing his Ph.D. at Jackson State University. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. As a TEDx presenter and frequent commentator in the press, Quarles uses his platform to amplify the voices of the unheard. He embodies hope, dedication, and progress, tirelessly working to create a brighter and more equitable future for all.
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