Derek Markley is Executive Director of the Tupelo and Booneville regional campuses and an Assistant Professor of Leadership & Counselor Education. He holds a bachelor's degree in History and M.B.A. from Lincoln Memorial University. He also holds a doctoral degree in Higher Education Leadership & Policy from Vanderbilt University. Prior to joining UM Derek served as the Chief of Staff and head of state legislative affairs for Eastern Illinois University. Derek has also served as a professor of Higher Education for University of the Cumberlands and Director of Foundation & External Relations for Lincoln Memorial University. Prior to entering higher education Derek worked in corporate sales management, marketing, and business development.