Hunter Nation Arizona: State Director Derek Matthews, Ph.D.

Hunter Nation is proud to introduce Derek Matthews, Ph.D., as the Arizona State Director. His story reflects the values at the center of our mission: heritage, responsibility, and the commitment to protect the hunting lifestyle for future generations.

Derek was born and raised in rural northwest Illinois, deep in whitetail country, where faith, family, and hunting were woven into everyday life. The subject was raised in a Christian conservative home where going into the woods was as essential as going to church. This background taught him that hunting is not just a hobby but a fundamental way of life.

His grandfather and father did more than teach him to shoot or track deer. They passed down a worldview:

Faith as the foundation
Family as the priority
The outdoors as the classroom

Those long days in the timber and in the blind forged the values that still drive Derek today. Introducing friends to hunting, mentoring new sportsmen, and building deep bonds in the field shaped his understanding of leadership, responsibility, and stewardship.

Those early experiences formed a foundation he has carried throughout his personal and professional life.

A Career Built on Leadership and Service

Derek moved to Arizona in 2008 and went on to earn his Ph.D. in Leadership. His professional background spans multiple industries, giving him a perspective that is rare among grassroots leaders.

He has served in leadership roles within his family’s fourth-generation beer distribution business in Iowa, worked in Fortune 500 leadership consulting, supported aerospace trading initiatives and contributed to the fintech sector. These roles strengthened his approach to service and strategic thinking and reinforced his belief that strong communities depend on strong values.

That same belief pushed him toward political involvement. In 2024, Derek began volunteering on Arizona campaigns and became deeply invested in conservative grassroots organizing. He now serves as a Precinct Committeeman in LD14, where he continues to build coalitions that defend Arizona families and constitutional freedoms.

Family, Freedom and the Future of Hunting in Arizona

Derek and his wife Michelle are raising their three children, Dahila, Monroe and Dawson, in Gilbert. For Derek, this work is personal. He wants his children to inherit the same freedoms, opportunities and outdoor traditions he enjoyed growing up.

He views hunting as something larger than the pursuit itself. It is heritage. It is time spent outdoors with people you trust. It is the kind of conversation and mentorship that shapes young Americans. Derek is committed to protecting this way of life and ensuring that hunters have a strong voice in Arizona’s future.

Building Hunter Nation Arizona

Derek's extensive hunting experience, spanning a lifetime, is a significant asset. Furthermore, his professional leadership skills arrive at a crucial moment, poised to strengthen Hunter Nation Arizona. His background as an executive coach and co-founder of a leadership development firm gives him a strong understanding of how to build teams, motivate people, and create action in complex environments. His Ph.D. in leadership informs his work with individuals and organizations that need clarity, purpose, and strong values.

These strengths now support a growing statewide coalition that is focused on protecting Arizona’s hunting culture. Derek’s mix of outdoor heritage, strategic insight, and grassroots involvement positions Hunter Nation Arizona to expand its reach and strengthen its influence. With his guidance, hunters across the state will have the support they need to stay united, stay informed, and stay active in the fight to protect their rights.

Hunter Nation is proud to have Derek Matthews leading this effort. His leadership will help ensure that Arizona’s hunting traditions remain strong for generations to come.

Join the Movement

Hunter Nation is only as strong as the hunters who stand with us. Derek invites every Arizona hunter, family and supporter of the outdoor way of life to join the cause.

Become a member today: HunterNation.org/join

Contact Hunter Nation Arizona

Hunter Nation encourages sportsmen, families, volunteers, and advocates across Arizona to get connected, stay engaged, and help defend our hunting heritage.

For questions, membership, volunteer opportunities, or to get involved with upcoming Arizona initiatives, please contact:

Hunter Nation – Arizona State Chapter
Attn: Dr. Derek Matthews, State Director
📧 derek@hunternation.org
🌐 http://www.HunterNation.org/Arizona

For national inquiries, media requests, or partnership outreach:

Hunter Nation National Headquarters
📧 info@hunternation.org
🌐 www.HunterNation.org

Your voice matters. Your involvement strengthens the movement. Join us in protecting faith, family, freedom, and America’s hunting traditions.