Derek Wu helped found the Youth Leadership Academy, an opportunity for middle and high school students to learn leadership skills to prepare them for roles in their schools and community.
As a member of the Maryland State Board of Education, Derek represents over one million Maryland students as well as his school, county and community. Derek also served as a board member of Sister Cities of Salisbury/Wicomico County, where he worked to internationalize the curriculum of the public schools.
Derek received the President's Service Award and Maryland Governor's Volunteer Award. He is also an accomplished pianist.