Darien Threadgill
Executive Director
Darien Threadgill is a proud graduate of Cheyney State College (now Cheyney University), where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education in 1974. He continued his academic journey by pursuing graduate studies at West Chester University and Villanova University, deepening his expertise and commitment to public education.
Throughout his remarkable 36-year career with the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District, Darien profoundly impacted the lives of countless students, fostering academic achievement, character growth, and self-confidence. His commitment to excellence earned him the Teacher of Merit and Teacher Impact awards, and he was selected for the district’s “Superior Service Program” for twelve consecutive years. As a team leader and teacher mentor for over twenty years, he played a key role in curriculum development and contributed to various district initiatives with enthusiasm and passion.
After retiring from teaching in 2010, Darien took on an exciting new role as the principal of Green Valley Academy, a private alternative school in Paoli that later moved to Berwyn, Pennsylvania. There, he transformed the entire teaching staff and curriculum, established middle school and elementary programs, and achieved an incredible ninefold increase in enrollment. After a fulfilling tenure, Darien retired from Green Valley Academy in 2017 to explore new interests and spend cherished time with his family.
President Walton’s appointment as interim president gave Cheyney alumni a renewed opportunity to support the administration and enhance student experiences. In recognition of his dedicated efforts, Darien was named Alumnus of the Year in 2020, an accolade he considers a delightful surprise and a cherished milestone.
In 2021, following a period of reflection amidst health challenges, President Aaron Walton invited Darien back to his alma mater to contribute to Cheyney’s revitalization efforts. He now serves as the Executive Director of The Cheyney Foundation, passionately advocating for two essential principles: “What best preserves and advances the sustainability of this legacy institution, and what is in the best interest of our students?”