Edward T. Derbin, MA, MBA
MA, Economics, University of Detroit Mercy
MBA, University of Detroit Mercy
Awards/Honor
- Beta Gamma Sigma
- National Business Honor Society (Top 5% of class)
- Alpha Sigma Nu,
- National Jesuit Honor Society (Top 5% of class)
Honor Society (Top 5% of class)
Alpha Sigma Nu, National Jesuit Honor Society (Top 5% of class)
When Doctor Byrne speaks of the New Paradigm in Economics, the best example is illustrated by what Ed Derbin has undergone over the past few years. A solid financial professional at DaimlerChrysler for more than nine years, Ed was laid off in a cost-cutting effort wherein more than twenty percent of the finance staff was let go. This was an organization that was the proud recipient of the Malcolm Baldridge Award just a few years before. The award was given for having a lean operation, or as Ed put it, they earned the prize by doing a job and a half per employee in the finance area. In an odd twist of fate, he has used this negative experience to his best advantage by more thoroughly immersing himself in the theory behind the phenomenon that caused him to lose his job in the auto industry. Not unlike his mentor, Doctor Byrne, Ed’s passion lies in the classroom and in the analysis and theory of economics.
In short, Ed Derbin’s role in this endeavor is to support, encourage and bring his significant expertise in terms of financial and management skills to bear in this ongoing project. His long-term objective is to gain mastery of The New Paradigm and Economics and to share the load as Associate Editor of this newsletter in bringing this increasingly relevant view of the American economy to the public.
In Memory of Dr. Donald Byrne
Dr. Donald Byrne will be remembered as an extraordinary teacher, mentor, and man of deep faith whose impact extended far beyond the classroom. For decades at the University of Detroit, he shaped the lives of countless students through his passion for economics, his unwavering commitment to truth, and his genuine care for every individual he encountered.
In the classroom, Dr. Byrne was nothing short of exceptional. His lectures were rigorous, thought-provoking, and often unforgettable. He had a rare ability to take complex economic ideas and patiently guide students toward understanding—often anticipating their questions before they could even ask them. His courses, especially Money and Banking, were known to be demanding, yet transformative. Students quickly learned that his exams were not merely tests, but opportunities to think deeply and grow intellectually. He insisted on clarity, logic, and substance—encouraging his students to think “logically, not ideologically.”
But what truly set Dr. Byrne apart was his dedication. He worked tirelessly to perfect his lectures, presentations, and writings, holding himself to the highest standards. Whether in a classroom, a conference, or a small discussion, he gave his full effort—always striving to deliver something meaningful and lasting. His remarkable memory, commanding presence, and ability to speak at length without notes left many in awe.
Beyond academics, Dr. Byrne was a mentor and guide. He took time to listen, to advise, and to inspire. Many students credit him with changing the course of their lives—encouraging them to pursue economics, guiding them through advanced studies, and instilling in them a lifelong love of learning. He treated his students not just as pupils, but as individuals whose futures mattered deeply to him.
At the heart of his life was a profound faith. A devoted Catholic, Dr. Byrne saw his work as part of a greater calling—serving others, seeking truth, and contributing to the common good. His faith was not something he imposed, but something he lived and shared naturally, shaping both his teaching and his relationships.
To his family, he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather—deeply devoted and immensely proud. To his colleagues and students, he was a source of wisdom, integrity, and inspiration. To all who knew him, he was a man who lived with purpose, conviction, and humility.
Dr. Byrne’s legacy lives on in the thousands of lives he touched—in the minds he challenged, the paths he helped shape, and the values he exemplified.
He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.