Deran Whitney, Ed.D

Dr. Deran Whitney is a native of Hampton, Virginia, and attended Hampton City Schools. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education from Christopher Newport University, a Master of Science in Education Degree from Old Dominion University, and a doctorate from Virginia Tech with a major in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies.   


Dr. Whitney has worked as a public-school teacher, assistant principal, and principal in the cities of Hampton and Suffolk, VA. He became the Coordinator of Elementary Education in Suffolk; transitioned to the position of Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Instructional Services and served as Deputy Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction in Suffolk Public Schools. Dr. Whitney completed his public-school career as Superintendent of Schools for Suffolk Public Schools, where he served in that role for nine years. During his tenure as Superintendent, he was responsible for all schools becoming fully accredited by the Commonwealth of Virginia and the construction of two new elementary schools and one middle school.  Dr. Whitney has been awarded Teacher of the Year recognition, Outstanding Young Men of America Award, and Principal School Bell Award.   


Currently, Dr. Whitney serves as an Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership and
Program Coordinator for the Administration and Supervision Program at Shenandoah University. Dr. Whitney’s research interests include School Leadership, School Improvement, Strategic Planning, and Cultural Diversity.