About Derek
Born and raised on Long Island in New York, I moved to Columbus several years ago and now call the West Columbus/Upper Arlington area home. I lived in Washington, DC for eight years studying entrepreneurship and small business management at The George Washington University, and working in the magazine/newspaper publishing industry.

I am the first full-time staff member of the CYP CLUB.

I also own a management consulting firm called The Grosso Group that advises organizations and businesses nationwide, in addition to being an entrepreneur and public speaker. In 2008, I completed a For Impact Fellowship through The Suddes Group to assist Junior Achievement of Central Ohio - a non-profit organization that teaches kids about entrepreneurship and financial literacy.

I have a real appreciation for food, and I enjoy dining out and cooking. You can usually find me outdoors participating in a variety of sports and recreational activities, such as baseball, volleyball, kickball, and kayaking.

Community Involvement and Interests
In addition to my role as president of the CYP CLUB, I also serve on the Nationwide Children's Hospital Development Board, Experience Columbus Membership Advisory Committee, Create Columbus Commission, Columbus2020 Create Committee, Networking Leaders Alliance Executive Board, United Way of Central Ohio 2011 Campaign Cabinet, and the Mid-Ohio Foodbank's Operation Feed Kitchen Cabinet. In 2009, I helped launch the first-ever Ohio Young Professionals Weekend in Columbus, and am continuing development of the Ohio Young Professionals™ Network to benefit Ohio-based YP organizations, their leadership, and their cities.

I am proud to have also been named one of Columbus' People to Watch 2009 by Columbus Alive and "Best Community Leader" by Columbus CEO Magazine in 2010.

What does Columbus offer young professionals?
We live in an exciting and emerging area - one that offers business, culture, politics, sports, dining, and more. The city still has many more years of growth ahead of it and I look forward to all that will make the area even stronger. I see Columbus as a positive magnet for young professionals of all backgrounds, offering a multitude of neighborhoods, cultures, and great people.

What do you hope members get out of their involvement in the CYP CLUB?
I always say that whatever you put into the organization will come back in larger number. I hope all members have a chance to get involved with the CYP CLUB in their own way to continue the growth of the organization. I encourage you to take advantage of the variety of events and opportunities the Club allows members to develop and connect.

What's your favorite CYP CLUB event and why?
A lot of members like to attend our larger events (several hundred in attendance) - and I really enjoy the large crowds. However, I tend to prefer the smaller events, where you can make a strong connection in an intimate setting.

How would you describe Columbus?
It is a diverse and growing metropolitan area that combines the best of the city and the suburbs.

Connect with Derek on social media
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