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Darrell Gooden

  • B.A. Accounting '73

Biography

Darrell Gooden, a Pensacola native and proud graduate of the University of West Florida with a degree in accounting, has left an enduring mark on his community through business leadership, philanthropy, and steadfast support of UWF. 

In 1980, Darrell founded Gooden Homes, Inc., a homebuilding company that went on to construct more than 3,000 homes in the Pensacola area. As CEO, he led the company to earn numerous awards in the Parade of Homes, including multiple honors for Outstanding Home. In 2009, the Home Builders Association of West Florida named him Builder of the Year, recognizing his excellence in the industry. He also dedicated more than a decade of service to the HBA Board of Directors. 

Darrell's commitment to UWF has been equally impactful. A longtime supporter of the university, he has served on the UWF Foundation Board of Directors, is a member of the Sword and Shield Club, and is a founding supporter of UWF Football. His generosity has shaped the future of Argonaut athletics, with the Darrell Gooden Center bearing his name and the new UWF football stadium, set for completion in 2027, to be named in his honor. 

In recognition of his philanthropy, the Association of Fundraising Professionals honored him as Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year in 2023. This year, Darrell is being inducted into the UWF Athletic Hall of Fame for his lasting contributions to the university and the community. 

Darrell credits his education and guidance from the UWF Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business as the foundation for his success and remains deeply proud to be an Argonaut alumnus. He and his wife, Debbie, reside on Pensacola Beach.