Daren Wilson currently serves as the President and CEO of the United Way of Norman, where he leads efforts to improve lives and strengthen the community through strategic partnerships and impactful initiatives. Raised in Okemah, Oklahoma, Daren is a proud graduate of Okemah High School. He earned an Associate of Science degree from Connors State College and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from the University of Oklahoma.
Daren began his business career with Wallace Computer Services, Inc., later serving as an account consultant for Walmart Stores, Inc. in Bentonville, AR. In 2002, he and his wife Melissa returned to Oklahoma to be closer to family, purchasing the family-owned Albright Insurance Agency, Inc. in Ponca City. As President/CEO and Owner, Daren led the agency until 2015, building a reputation for integrity and service.
While in Ponca City, Daren discovered a deep passion for community service and nonprofit leadership. He served on numerous boards, including the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce (Chair), Leadership Ponca City (Chair), United Way Board (Chair), and United Way Campaign (Chair). He was also appointed as a trustee for the Ponca City Economic Development Authority and served as a Director on the Eastman National Bank Board.
In 2016, Daren and his family relocated to Norman, Oklahoma, where he became the first Director of Development for Loveworks Leadership, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering at-risk youth. In August 2017, he assumed his current role at the United Way of Norman, continuing his mission to uplift those in need and foster a thriving community. Daren remains actively involved in local leadership efforts, serving on the Leadership Norman Advisory Team and is a proud graduate of Leadership Norman Class of 2017.
Daren and Melissa are the proud parents of four children: Colin, Nathan, Seth, and Carly. Outside of work, Daren enjoys cheering on his kids in sports, supporting the Oklahoma Sooners, spending time at the lake, scuba diving, and snow skiing.