Since 2019, Derek has served as the president of The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology, where he previously served as Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs. Derek is interested in questions of group dynamics, organizational development, and the role of leaders in facilitating change.

Dr. McNeil has a PhD in Counseling Psychology from Northwestern University and an MDiv from Fuller Theological Seminary. Prior to his tenure at The Seattle School, Dr. McNeil served as faculty in the PsyD program at Wheaton College Graduate School for over 15 years and has worked as a clinician in private practice, a diversity advisor, an organizational consultant, and an administrator.

His research, writing, and speaking have focused on issues of ethnic and racial socialization, the role of forgiveness in peacemaking, the identity development of African-American men, leadership in living systems, and resilience.