Tom is the proud father of three children and grandfather of two. He and his wife, Stephanie Montford Derzypolski, celebrate their 20th Anniversary this year and are members of Celebration Baptist Church, where faith and community continue to guide their lives.

After high school, Tom served his country as a U.S. Navy Corpsman (medic) for eight years. That experience instilled in him the importance of discipline, teamwork, and putting others first. After being honorably discharged, he returned home to Tallahassee to complete his education and begin building his future in the community he has always called home.

Education has always been a priority for Tom. He graduated from Tallahassee State College and later earned his degree from Florida State University. Those experiences helped prepare him for a life centered on service, leadership, and responsibility.

Professionally, Tom is the co-founder and owner of BowStern, a Tallahassee-based company. As a small business owner, he understands firsthand the challenges of balancing budgets, meeting payroll, and growing an organization. Those experiences have given him a practical understanding of the economic realities facing local businesses and working families.

Service to the community has always been a central part of Tom’s life. He previously served as Chair of the local Red Cross and currently serves on the boards of Goodwill Industries and DISC Village. These organizations do vital work supporting individuals and families throughout the region. He has also served on numerous task forces and citizens’ advisory committees as the community works together to address its challenges.

Through his professional and volunteer work, Tom has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor among diverse groups across Tallahassee and the surrounding region. Known as a consensus builder, he brings diverse stakeholders together to pursue common goals.

Tom’s leadership and service have also been honored by several local organizations, including the Rotary Clubs of Tallahassee, Wakulla, and Monticello Ethics in Business Award; the ECHO Making a Difference Award; the Bob Lotane Red Cross Service Above Self Award; and recognition as Leader of the Year at the 2019 Distinguished Leadership Awards.

It is where his family lives and where he built his business. His campaign for City Commission Seat 3 is rooted in a simple belief: Tallahassee’s best days are ahead if the community leads with integrity, serves with purpose, and works together to strengthen the city they all love.