Her Story
About Derinda
Derinda Harrison is an experienced accounting and nonprofit finance professional currently serving as an Account Manager at the Catholic Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee in Pensacola, Florida. With a strong background in accounting, office management, and organizational operations, she oversees financial processes across more than 81 parishes, schools, cemeteries, and auxiliary locations. Her role includes managing bookkeepers, supporting internal accountants, reviewing financial records, promoting best practices, and ensuring adherence to accounting standards and compliance requirements.
Throughout her career, Harrison has demonstrated expertise in financial management, process improvement, and technology implementation. She played a key role in implementing Sage accounting software across the Diocese’s various entities, providing training and guidance to ensure successful adoption. Before transitioning into nonprofit accounting, she built a foundation in interior design, project management, and client services, bringing a unique blend of creativity, organization, and problem-solving skills to her financial career.
Harrison earned her Bachelor of Family and Consumer Sciences degree in Textiles and Furnishings from the University of Georgia, with additional studies in interior design at Georgia State University. She attributes her success to her passion for serving others, continuous learning, and commitment to helping people succeed in their roles. Guided by her faith and dedication to family, she actively supports her community through church involvement and volunteer work, while encouraging women entering the accounting field to be confident, speak up, and embrace their unique strengths.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Derinda
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my love for hard work and my passion for helping people. I see my career as a mission to serve others and make a meaningful impact.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is not to take myself too seriously. Maintaining humility, perspective, and a sense of balance has helped me grow and navigate my career with confidence.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to be confident and use their voice. Do not be afraid to speak up, especially in a traditionally male-dominated field.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge and opportunity in my field is keeping up with rapidly evolving technology, especially AI. Learning how to effectively use these tools allows us to enhance our skills, improve our work, and expand the ways we serve others.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are my faith in God and my commitment to staying grounded through daily prayer and reflection. My family is also a central part of my life and continues to guide my values and priorities.
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