Derrick Smith has extensive experience in public relations, editing, and community service. Since May 2011, Derrick has served as a docent at the USS Hornet Museum, providing tours on the flight deck. Derrick has been the Vice President of Public Relations for Rising Stars Toastmasters Club since November 2010 and a member of the Training Committee at Experience Unlimited since August 2009. Derrick contributed to community service as a Food Pantry Helper at the Rainbow Community Center of Contra Costa in May 2011. Derrick's background in journalism includes roles as a Copy Editor at the San Francisco Chronicle and Contra Costa Times from 1987 to 2009, and as an Editorial Assistant at the San Francisco Chronicle from 1987 to 1993. Derrick holds a BA in Political Science and Public Administration from Fordham University and has attended Brandman University, among other institutions.