About Dr D.
Scholar. Leader. Athlete.
Empowering the next generation to think critically, lead boldly, and compete ethically—in education, athletics, and beyond.
Scholar
Dr. Devin L. DeLaughter, affectionately known as Dr. D, is an Assistant Professor in Belmont University’s College of Education, where he is dedicated to developing the next generation of transformative educational leaders. He holds a B.S. in Mathematics from The University of the South (Sewanee), an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Covenant College, and an Ed.D. from Dallas Baptist University. Throughout his career in K–12 education, Dr. DeLaughter has served as a math and science teacher across elementary, middle, and secondary levels, and later as an Assistant Principal, Director of Athletics, and Headmaster. These diverse experiences have shaped his holistic and student-centered approach to leadership, teaching, and service.
Driven by a deep passion for educating, equipping, and encouraging high school student-athletes, Dr. DeLaughter believes that athletics can be a powerful platform for academic growth, character development, and life preparation. His research and community engagement focus on operationalized transformational leadership theory; the academic experiences of African American boys in K–12 institutions; social justice through the lens of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and the vital role of interscholastic athletics in shaping equitable educational opportunities. Inspired by the timeless words of Dr. Benjamin E. Mays—“Whatever you do, strive to do it so well that no one else could do it better”—Dr. D is committed to helping young people realize their full potential, embrace their purpose, and pursue excellence with humility, courage, and gratitude.
My philosophy of leadership is rooted in the belief that every individual possesses inherent worth, untapped potential, and the capacity to influence the world with purpose.
Leadership, at its core, is an act of service—an intentional commitment to elevate others, cultivate meaningful relationships, and create conditions where people can thrive academically, personally, and professionally. Guided by transformational leadership theory, I view the role of a leader not as one who commands from above, but as one who inspires from within—igniting motivation, modeling integrity, and empowering others to exceed even their own expectations.
I believe that true leadership requires vision anchored in values, a deep understanding of each person’s unique story, and the courage to challenge systems that limit opportunity. As an educator, researcher, and mentor, I strive to embody the principles of transformational leadership by fostering environments grounded in trust, empathy, and high expectations. I am committed to encouraging student-athletes and aspiring leaders to recognize their strengths, pursue excellence with humility, and embrace the mindset that “Never take anything for granted.” In the spirit of Dr. Benjamin E. Mays’s call to strive for unmatched excellence, I lead with the conviction that when we inspire others to believe in themselves, we not only change individual lives—we transform communities and shape legacies that endure.
Leader
Athlete
Dr. Devin L. DeLaughter’s athletic journey reflects a lifelong commitment to discipline, teamwork, and competitive excellence.
A proud product of Tullahoma High School, he began developing his athletic foundation as a multisport student-athlete, gaining early experience in leadership, training intensity, and the competitive mindset that would shape his entire career. He continued his athletic development at The University of the South (Sewanee), where he competed as a collegiate athlete and deepened his understanding of the connection between academic achievement, athletic performance, and personal character. After his college playing career, Dr. DeLaughter transitioned into coaching, serving in various roles across respected athletic programs. He contributed to the football team at Ohio University, gaining valuable experience at the Division I level. His coaching journey continued at The McCallie School for Boys, where he worked within one of the region’s most competitive and tradition-rich athletic departments, mentoring student-athletes and supporting their growth on and off the field. Dr. DeLaughter later expanded his leadership and teaching impact at Grace Community School, coaching and supporting student-athletes within a mission-driven educational environment. Beyond his time as a player and coach, Dr. DeLaughter also competed as a powerlifter in the Natural Athlete Strength Association (NASA) Tennessee State Competition, demonstrating his ongoing dedication to personal fitness, competitive sport, and disciplined training. His diverse athletic background—as a student-athlete, coach, and competitor—continues to fuel his passion for educating, equipping, and encouraging today’s high school athletes to pursue excellence with purpose and resilience
What Is NIL?
NIL — Name, Image, and Likeness — allows student-athletes to profit from the value they create through their personal identity.
Grounded in the legal concept of the right of publicity, NIL ensures that no company, brand, or institution can profit from an athlete’s identity without their permission.
NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness)
Gives student-athletes the right to profit from their personal brand, including their name, photo, voice, and signature.
Rooted in the right of publicity
NIL ensures that no company or organization can use an athlete’s identity for commercial gain without permission.
NIL opportunities
Include social-media partnerships, endorsements, autographs, appearances, personal merchandise, camps, and more.
NIL empowers athletes
To build long-term personal and professional brands while still competing in interscholastic or collegiate athletics.