Alumni Spotlight: Darrell Bell '18
Leading With Purpose Through Education, Equity, and Community Impact
Darrell Bell '18 (Master of Strategic Leadership)
Darrell Bell ’18, a graduate of the Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSL) program, is living out the values of servant leadership and community transformation.
Bell embodies these values through his work across higher education and the Greater Rochester region.
Currently serving as Vice President for Advancement at Nazareth University, Bell brings a deep commitment to education, equity, and philanthropy, mobilizing resources to expand opportunities and strengthen institutions that serve the common good. A member of Leadership Rochester’s Class of 2021, he is part of a vibrant network of leaders dedicated to learning about regional challenges and working collaboratively to create meaningful change.
Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Bell now calls Macedon, New York home. What makes Rochester special to him is its strong sense of community and its legacy of innovation and activism.
“People here genuinely care about making the region better for everyone,” he shared. “That spirit of collective responsibility is what makes Rochester shine.”
When Bell envisions a thriving community, he sees one where opportunity is defined not by circumstance, but by potential—where education, meaningful work, and strong support systems empower every individual to flourish.
“At its best, our community blends compassion with innovation,” he said. “It lifts up the most vulnerable while creating sustainable pathways for growth.”
That vision shapes his work each day. Through his professional role and volunteer service, Bell helps strengthen the community by championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, serving on local boards, and building bridges between generosity and need, voices and influence, vision and possibility.
His community involvement includes leadership roles with organizations such as CASE (Council for Advancement and Support of Education), DEI initiatives with the Genesee Valley Club and Willow, and engagement with professional networks including Sigma Pi Phi and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Reflecting on his experience with Leadership Rochester, Bell notes that the most important lesson he learned was that true leadership begins with listening.
“Leadership is less about having the right answers and more about creating the conditions where diverse voices can shape solutions together,” he said. “Progress happens when we lean into uncomfortable conversations with humility and courage.”
That philosophy aligns closely with the leadership foundation Bell built at Roberts—one rooted in faith, service, and a commitment to lifting others.
Nat's Nuts headquarters and founder, Nathaniel Harrington '17 (Business Administration)
Asked to share a favorite local hidden gem, Bell highlighted a familiar Roberts success story: Nat’s Nuts, a small-batch, artisan nut company that began roasting in a dorm room at Roberts Wesleyan University and has since grown into a beloved regional brand.
To guide his leadership journey, Bell often returns to a quote by Simon Sinek:
“Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.”
“This mindset,” Darrell shared, “reminds me that lasting impact comes from creating belonging, lifting others, and ensuring people have the support they need to thrive.”
Through his work, service, and leadership, Darrell Bell ’18 exemplifies the heart of a Roberts education—leading with purpose, integrity, and a deep commitment to the flourishing of others.
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About the author
Roberts Wesleyan University
As a community of learners committed to historic Christianity, Roberts Wesleyan University seeks to prepare thoughtful, spiritually mature, service-oriented people who will help transform society.
We are a private Christian university in Rochester, New York, offering over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs.
As the only NCAA Division II institution in the region and member of the East Coast Conference, Roberts is committed to academic excellence, spiritual formation, and competitive athletics.