Derrick Lewis, a 2001 graduate of West Haven High School, left his mark on the school through both athletics and his involvement in the school community. A football All-State captain, Lewis was also a member of the Colors 200 and Taste of Africa clubs, as well as a member of Peer Advocates.
Lewis’s hard work on the football field earned him a full scholarship to the University of Connecticut, where he continued his career as a student-athlete before ultimately finishing his playing and academic career at Southern Connecticut State University. He graduated from SCSU in 2006 with a degree in Sociology and became a two-time All-American football player during his college career.
Lewis recalls that he had a young family at the time, so while playing football, he also worked full time to support them. Even with those responsibilities, he found time during the summers to volunteer as a basketball coach. That willingness to balance football, academics, work, family, and giving back reflects the blue-collar mentality that West Haven has long been known for.
Looking back on his time at West Haven High School, Lewis said there are “too many to count and mention” when it comes to the people who made an impact on his life. He maintained a close relationship with the late Coach McCarthy until his passing and continues to credit Bert Siclari with having “an amazing impact” on his life. Lewis also has a unique connection to Robert Bohan, who was his sixth-grade teacher when Bohan was first beginning his career in education.
Today, Lewis has spent 19 years working as a social worker for the Connecticut Department of Children and Families. He serves as an investigator and advocate for child welfare while also championing fatherhood engagement efforts throughout the region. Outside of his work with DCF, Lewis is also the founder and senior pastor of Transformation Christian Church in New Haven.
Lewis’s work has given him the opportunity to continue advocating for and supporting others. His career in child welfare, efforts surrounding fatherhood engagement, and leadership within his church have all become important parts of the work he does today.
When reflecting on what West Haven means to him, Lewis described the community as something students should recognize as they prepare for life beyond high school. “West Haven is a special place with rich legacy and history. You are the thread that weaves into this everlasting quilt! You are somebody!” Lewis said. He encourages current students not to underestimate what their experiences at West Haven High School can mean for their futures. “Your experience that this school has given you will give you a leg up in the world,” Lewis said. “Don’t shy away from the destiny that awaits you on the other side of today!”
For Lewis, the lessons and relationships he gained through West Haven have remained with him long after graduation. His journey from a West Haven student-athlete to a child welfare advocate and community leader is a reflection of the many different paths that can begin right here in West Haven.
