Carmen M. Duckens serves as the Assistant Director of Operations for the Department of Neighborhoods. A dedicated public service leader, she brings extensive experience in government operations, policy management, customer service, and organizational leadership.
In her current role, Carmen oversees the department’s Fiscal Team, Communications and Public Information Office, Social Program Specialist for special events and community engagement initiatives, and the 311 Service Center. She provides strategic direction to support efficient operations, transparent communication, effective resource management, and high-quality service delivery to residents.
Prior to joining the City of Columbus, Carmen held leadership positions in Franklin County Job and Family Services, where she managed quality control, compliance, and policy development for public assistance programs. Her work focused on improving operational performance, ensuring program integrity, and advancing organizational goals through data-informed decision-making.
Carmen holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Arts and Technology from Tennessee State University and a Master of Public Administration from Franklin University. Known for her collaborative leadership style and results-driven approach, she is committed to fostering innovation, strengthening community connections, and delivering exceptional public service.
Derek H. Anderson serves as the Assistant Director of Programs for the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods, where he leads strategic community engagement initiatives in the My Brother’s Keeper, the New American Program, the Commission on Black Girls, the Community Relations Commission, and Rise Up CBUS! along with advancing interdepartmental collaborations that enhance the quality of life for residents across Columbus. Derek’s leadership portfolio includes his service as Chairman of the Environmental Health Sciences Advisory Board for The Ohio State University College of Public Health, where he supported academic, research, and community health priorities. At the national level, Derek has contributed to the advancement of organizational culture, equity and workforce innovation through his service on the National Diversity Expertise Panel for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).
A steadfast public servant in Central Ohio, Derek previously served as Chairman of the Franklin County Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health (ADAMH) Board, guiding countywide behavioral health strategy, fiscal oversight and system-level partnerships. His leadership has been recognized widely, including his inclusion in Who’s Who in Black Columbus and his selection as a 40 Under 40 honoree by Rejuvenate Magazine. Most recently, Derek was honored by Morehouse College with induction into the Board of Sponsors of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, a distinction reserved for leaders who exemplify ethical courage, intellectual stewardship and a commitment to justice and global service. Derek is a proud member of the Ohio Association of Commodores, one of the state’s highest honors for civic leadership. He is a graduate fellow of the State of Ohio’s Premier Leadership Development Program, Leadership Ohio, and a fellow of the African American Leadership Academy. In addition, he is a graduate of the FBI Citizens Academy. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Marshall University and earned a Masters in Leadership and Doctor of Ministry Degree from Payne Theological Seminary.