Bro. Jamabo William-West

Brother Derrick Barnes

College Vice President, Mid-Atlantic Association of Alpha Chapters

Assistant District VI Director

Nu Beta

From Brooklyn, New York, Bro. Derrick Barnes is an honors senior at American University studying Public Relations and Legal Studies. He is a Fall 2024 initiate of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., by way of the Nu Beta Chapter, seated at American University, Catholic University of America, Georgetown University, and The George Washington University.

On campus, he serves as an American University Student Ambassador, where he has given hundreds of campus tours to prospective students and their families. He is also a member of the American University Honors College, where he conducts research, and is an inaugural member of the American University Catalyst Program, a professional development initiative for BIPOC students.

Bro. Barnes has extensive fraternal experience, having served as Vice President and Chair of Programming, as well as Immediate Past Assistant Area Director for Area VI. In these roles, he assisted with the initiation of both college and alumni brothers and supported communication among chapters throughout the DC area. He is also a graduate of the 25th Class of the Alpha Leadership Academy.

Professionally, he served as an intern with the New York City Mayor’s Office of Engagement, where he worked under senior New York leadership to support outreach efforts that strengthen connections between government and diverse communities. Additionally, he served as an intern for Gregory Meeks, where he gained valuable experience in legislative affairs, constituent services, and public policy research.

His interests include politics, playing the bass guitar, and karate. He also enjoys mentoring younger students, engaging in civic discussions, and staying informed on current events. In the future, he aspires to pursue a career in public service and hopes to run for public office one day, with the goal of creating meaningful change within his community.