Derek Weiss possesses expertise in media relations, non profits, public relations, fundraising, event planning and 44 more skills. Colleagues describe him as "With brilliant insight, incredible communication, and next-generation leadership, Derek thinks for the long-term, with his feet firmly planted in an understanding of human needs. Derek is a leader of incredible magnitude, a thinker and feeler of true depth, and a family-oriented individual with a deeply compassionate heart. In my own life, I've been inspired and influenced by Derek's gifts in ways that have helped destigmatize mental health care, reorient the spiritual imagination, and show me that patient, humble leadership can create change over the long-term. Through his role at UGM, Derek helped the public develop a nuanced, compassionate understanding of a complex nexus of social topics — by partnering with the community, communicating with the press, and building innovative new partnerships and programs inside and outside of UGM. Whether or not Vancouver realizes it, Derek's leadership helped transform Vancouver's understanding of homelessness, poverty and addiction. I have no doubt that Derek's compassionate, generative influence could shape another entire community's approach to social issues."