Butler, who graduated from University College with a degree in organizational leadership, is the son of Dr. Judy Butler, a retired College of Education professor, and husband to a Tanner Health System School of Nursing alumna. 

Oftentimes, the journey of becoming does not follow the path we initially foresee. Butler originally started college in 1993 with the intent of becoming a radio personality, but soon after, his wife became ill and passed away, leaving him the single father of a toddler at the age of 24. However, he never gave up on his dream to finish his bachelor’s degree. Fast-forward to 2021, when Butler – working as a cybersecurity engineer for Verizon – enrolled at UWG because he needed a program that provided flexibility and took into consideration the courses he completed earlier in his life. While enrolled, Butler says he had the chance to revive an interest of his youth as a member of the UWG Concert Choir. 

“This is a testament to an important concept at the University of West Georgia: that just because you are a post-traditional student does not mean you don’t get to be involved in college experiences outside the classroom,” Kelly observed. “One of the beautiful things about our university is that whether you are 19 years old or 35 or 70, all of the opportunities are available to you. It’s just a matter of whether you leverage them while you’re here. Chay, you have a remarkable story, and we are grateful you carried on the family legacy of being a Wolf.”

Now the father of four children and five grandchildren, Butler plans to pursue his master’s degree at Georgia Tech. 

The University of West Georgia College of Education produces more educational leaders and administrators than any other institution in the state of Georgia, and on Saturday, Burchette joined the ranks when he earned his Doctor of Education in School Improvement. The same is true for professional educators. When it comes to teachers, UWG is the No. 1 producer in the state of Georgia and produces more than the next four highest-producing institutions combined. 

“Derrick, who currently serves as coordinator of staff development for Gwinnett County Public Schools, is a leader who has benefited from our world-class education,” Kelly said. “He has now earned his third credential from UWG. Today, the lifelong learner and father of three completes his academic journey by earning his Doctorate in School Improvement.”

The Burchette family is not leaving UWG behind – Derrick’s eldest child will begin at UWG this fall as a Dual Enrollment student.