Before the move to KIPE, Darlene worked with the Carolina Small Business Development Fund, a local community development financial institution to provide technical assistance and access to capital to minority and women-owned businesses across the state.   

Darlene has worked for Self-Help and the NC Rural Economic Development Center and is a former Edible Arrangements franchisee.  She recently completed a Doctor of Business Administration degree from UNC Charlotte’s Belk School of Business where she researched entrepreneurship and digital marketing capabilities in female firms.   

Darlene resides in Durham and is married to Kenan Executive MBA Alumni David Deberry.  They have two adult children and enjoy traveling the world. Darlene is a recreational runner and lover of chocolate ice cream.