A lifelong seeker of knowledge, positive relationships and fun, Deron is driven and passionate about entrepreneurship, relationships and family. He graduated in 1989 from the Eller School of Management. His business career started with the Big Six accounting firm KPMG/Peat Marwick in the state and local tax (SALT) area. In his late twenties, he founded his own state and local tax consulting practice in Phoenix and continues to serve clients today after 22 years in business.
As an industry leader, Deron’s vision and leadership has led to several legislative law changes resulting in Arizona becoming a more competitive tax state and saving taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars. In addition, he has been personally invested in over 33 different entrepreneurial business ventures including start-ups, operational companies and real estate opportunities. As a long-standing member of the Arizona Chapter of the Entrepreneur’s Organization (EO), Deron has served in several board positions including president and as the education chair of EO’s Arizona University. He continues to serve EO as a brand ambassador and mentor for younger members.
A passionate Wildcat, he continues to lend his hand to the University of Arizona as well. Working with Eller School of Management Dean Paulo Goes and Remy Arteaga, Director of the McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship, Deron founded the inaugural “Bear Down & Pitch” competition. This event brings together the top business students from the McGuire Center and the Phoenix business community to inspire, learn and grow. Because of his efforts, Deron has been awarded the prestigious “Bear Down” award by The University of Arizona Alumni Association, given to an alumnus who has performed noteworthy or meritorious service on behalf of the university.
When Deron thinks of the University of Arizona, he thinks of growth, learning and inspiration. This university and the experiences he had while in Tucson have had an indelible impact on his life. The struggles, challenges and achievements all were positive and impactful. The Red and Blue Hold a special place in Deron’s heart.
Over the years Deron has always had the support of his family. His wife of 24 years, Heather, is a Pi Phi from the University of Arizona. His son, Davis, is a junior in the Eller School of Management and a member of SAE. His daughter, Tatum, is a freshman at the University of Arizona and a young recruit in the Kappa Kappa Gamma house.
When asking Deron what FIJI means to him, he states, “Being part of the fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta has always been being part of something bigger than yourself. A common bond built in your college days, but relationships that last a lifetime. Walking past those six vigas and through that front door, seeing that black diamond and white star changed my life forever! Those formative years…FIJI had a significant impact. The traditions, relationships and experiences molded me, and continue to shape who I am today. The words ‘Not for College Days alone’ ring true today as they did in the spring of 1989.” Deron has so many fond memories of the chapter, but the sense of brotherhood on campus was very memorable, and remains alive and well today.